🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Suzuki

Model:

RV125

Year:

1981

Vehicle Type:

Dual-sport Motorcycle

Engine Type:

Two-stroke, single-cylinder

Engine Displacement:

123 cc

Generation:

First Generation (RV Series)

Chassis Code:

Often referred to by engine size and year, e.g., RV125-1981

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Suzuki RV125 was positioned as a lightweight, versatile dual-sport motorcycle, appealing to riders looking for off-road capability and on-road usability. Its rugged construction and simple, reliable two-stroke engine made it a popular choice for recreational riders and those seeking an affordable, capable machine for light trail riding and commuting.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with other 125cc dual-sport and enduro-style motorcycles of the era from manufacturers like Yamaha (e.g., DT125), Honda (e.g., XL125), and Kawasaki (e.g., KE125). The RV125 often stood out for its unique styling, robust frame, and torquey, tractable two-stroke engine.

Key Features:

Lightweight and agile handling, durable two-stroke engine, capable suspension for off-road use, reliable electrical system, distinctive styling, straightforward mechanicals for ease of maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, transmission, chassis, electrical system, bodywork, suspension, brakes, troubleshooting, maintenance, adjustments, specifications.

Page Count:

Typically 200-300 pages (estimated for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed reproduction or digital PDF (searchable text for digital)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (top-end, bottom-end, cooling, lubrication), Fuel System (carburetor, fuel tank, lines), Ignition System (CDI, spark plug), Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (gearbox, shifting mechanism), Drive System (chain, sprockets), Frame, Forks, Swingarm, Shocks, Front Brake (drum), Rear Brake (drum), Wheels, Tires, Electrical System (lighting, battery, charging, wiring diagrams), Controls, Bodywork (fenders, seat, tank).

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment), Engine disassembly and reassembly, Carburetor tuning and overhaul, Ignition system testing, Clutch adjustment and replacement, Transmission inspection and repair, Brake system maintenance, Suspension servicing, Electrical component testing and replacement, Troubleshooting guides for common problems, Specifications for all components, Torque values for fasteners, Wiring diagrams.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, and adjustment procedures for all major vehicle systems. Includes diagnostic information and specifications necessary for professional-level repairs and in-depth troubleshooting. Suitable for both experienced mechanics and dedicated DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (if digital), Printed (if physical reproduction)

Print Quality:

High-quality reproduction, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text. If digital, optimized for screen viewing and printing.

Binding Type:

If printed: Coil-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

If printed: Durable, matte finish paper to reduce glare and withstand workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Configuration:

123cc, air-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder with reed valve induction.

Bore X Stroke:

56.0 mm x 50.6 mm (typical for this displacement range)

Compression Ratio:

6.7:1 (typical)

Horsepower:

Approximately 12-14 HP @ 7,000 RPM (estimated)

Torque:

Approximately 10-12 Nm @ 6,000 RPM (estimated)

Top Speed:

Approximately 100-110 km/h (60-70 mph) (estimated)

Carburetor Model:

Mikuni VM26SS (typical for Suzuki 125cc two-strokes of this era)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline with appropriate two-stroke oil pre-mix (e.g., 50:1 ratio specified in manual).

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 Liters (2.1 US gallons)

Spark Plug Type:

NGK B8ES or equivalent (verify with manual)

Spark Plug Gap:

0.7-0.8 mm (0.028-0.031 in) (verify with manual)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed constant mesh

Optional Transmissions:

N/A (standard for this model)

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Final Drive:

Chain drive

Transmission Oil Type:

SAE 80W API GL-4 (verify with manual)

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approximately 0.8 Liters (0.85 US quarts) (verify with manual)

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Approximately 1970 mm (77.6 in) (estimated)

Overall Width:

Approximately 825 mm (32.5 in) (estimated)

Overall Height:

Approximately 1115 mm (43.9 in) (estimated)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 1305 mm (51.4 in) (estimated)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 250 mm (9.8 in) (estimated)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 100 kg (220 lbs) (estimated)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 107 kg (236 lbs) (estimated)

Front Tire Size:

2.75-21 4PR (verify with manual)

Rear Tire Size:

4.10-18 4PR (verify with manual)

Front Suspension:

Telescopic forks with adjustable preload (likely)

Rear Suspension:

Swingarm with dual shock absorbers, adjustable preload (likely)

Front Brake Type:

Drum brake

Rear Brake Type:

Drum brake

Wheel Type:

Spoked wheels

Bolt Pattern:

N/A (specific to hub design)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Motorcycles of this era did not have standardized crash safety ratings like modern automobiles.

Active Safety Features:

Agile handling, responsive braking (for drum brakes of the era), good visibility.

Passive Safety Features:

Sturdy frame, protective bodywork (fenders, etc.).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (Motorcycle of this era did not feature infotainment systems.)

Driver Assistance Features:

N/A (Motorcycle of this era did not feature driver assistance systems.)

Connectivity Features:

N/A (Motorcycle of this era did not feature connectivity features.)

Lighting System:

12V Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (if equipped).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 2,000 km (1,200 miles) or 6 months (typical for this engine type, refer to manual for exact Suzuki recommendation).

Air Filter Cleaning Interval:

Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or annually (depending on operating conditions, refer to manual).

Chain Lubrication And Adjustment Interval:

Every 500 km (300 miles) or after washing/wet riding (refer to manual).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles) or annually (verify with manual).

Engine Oil Type:

Two-stroke oil (pre-mix) – specific API classification and recommended ratio (e.g., TC-W or equivalent, typically 50:1) must be confirmed in the manual.

Transmission Oil Type:

SAE 80W API GL-4

Fork Oil Type:

SAE 10W fork oil (typical, verify capacity and type in manual)

Known Issues:

Common issues with vintage two-stroke motorcycles can include carburetor gumming if not used regularly, aging electrical components (wires, connectors), worn crank seals leading to air leaks, and exhaust port carbon buildup. The manual will provide detailed diagnostics for these and other potential problems.

Troubleshooting Focus:

The manual excels at guiding users through common starting issues, poor performance, electrical faults, and mechanical noises, offering systematic diagnostic steps for each.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Suzuki has a long and rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the mid-20th century. They are known for innovation, performance, and reliability across a wide range of motorcycle segments, from small-displacement commuters to high-performance superbikes and off-road machines.

Model Evolution:

The RV series, including the RV125, was part of Suzuki's push into the dual-sport market during the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was designed to bridge the gap between dedicated dirt bikes and street motorcycles, offering a versatile package for various riding conditions. Models like the RV200 and RV90 also existed within the same family.

Production Years:

The Suzuki RV125 was produced during the early 1980s, with the 1981 model year being a key iteration. Specific production start and end years for the model line would need to be confirmed via historical Suzuki archives or detailed model year guides.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (typical for Suzuki motorcycles of this era)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the RV125 are not widely documented, it was recognized within its segment for its durability and versatility by motorcycle publications and enthusiasts of the period. Its enduring appeal is evident in its continued collector interest.

User Ratings:

Often praised for reliability and off-road capability relative to its contemporaries.

Certifications:

Met all relevant emissions and safety standards for its production year and market.