Segment:
Lightweight Sportbike, Two-Stroke Performance
Description:
The RGV250 was Suzuki's highly competitive entry in the 250cc Grand Prix replica class, known for its advanced technology and agile handling.
Key Rivals:
Honda NSR250R, Yamaha TZR250, Kawasaki KR-1/KR-1S
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, V-twin (90 degrees)
Induction:
Reed valve, Rotary disc valve (RGV250M and later) with Mikuni VM28SS carburetors
Suspension:
Upside-down front forks (USD), rear monoshock with adjustable preload and damping
Braking:
Dual front discs, single rear disc
Performance Enhancements:
Suzuki Automatic Exhaust Control System (SAEC) for improved powerband delivery
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system
Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul (Mikuni VM28SS), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank
Ignition System:
CDI ignition, spark plugs, ignition timing, primary/secondary coils
Exhaust System:
Expansion chambers, mufflers, exhaust control valves (SAEC)
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gear shift mechanism, gearbox overhaul, gear ratios, transmission oil
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork (USD), rear monoshock, swingarm, steering bearings, wheel bearings
Braking System:
Front dual disc brakes, rear single disc brake, brake fluid, caliper overhaul, master cylinders
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system (alternator, battery), starter motor, switches, sensors
Bodywork And Frame:
Fairings, fuel tank, seat, frame inspection, side stand, center stand
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, filter changes, chain adjustment, brake bleeding
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and solutions, electrical fault finding
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for component removal and reinstallation
Torque Specifications:
All critical fastener torque values for engine, chassis, and bodywork
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to full engine and gearbox rebuilds, including performance tuning considerations
Engine Type:
249cc, Liquid-cooled, 90-degree V-twin, 2-stroke
Bore X Stroke:
54.0 mm x 54.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
7.4:1 (typical, varies by year/market)
Valve Actuation:
Reed valve induction (early models), Reed valve with rotary disc valve (late models)
Carburetors:
Dual Mikuni VM28SS
Horsepower Rating:
Approximately 60-65 HP @ 11,000 RPM (varies by market and year)
Torque Rating:
Approximately 38-40 Nm @ 10,000 RPM (varies by market and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 91 RON/87 AKI)
Oil Mixing:
Automatic oil injection (Suzuki Premix System)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 1.8 Liters
Coolant Type:
Suzuki Genuine Coolant or equivalent (50/50 Ethylene Glycol based)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle - subject to rider skill and adherence to safety practices)
Braking System:
Dual front hydraulic disc brakes, Rear hydraulic disc brake
Tires:
Tubeless radial tires (e.g., 110/70R17 front, 150/70R17 rear - check manual for specific sizes)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight (some models)
Indicators:
Front and rear turn signals
Infotainment System:
N/A (Focus on performance and analog instrumentation)
Gauge Cluster:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, coolant temperature gauge, fuel gauge (some models), indicator lights.
Engine Control:
CDI ignition system, carburetor-based fuel metering.
Oil Change Engine:
Every 3,000 km or 6 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 6,000 km
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 3,000 km
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 1,000 km
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Type 2 Stroke:
Suzuki Genuine 2-stroke Engine Oil (or equivalent JASO FD/FC certified)
Engine Oil Premix Capacity:
Refer to oil injection reservoir capacity (approx. 1.5 Liters)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 10W (refer to manual for specific weight and volume)
Two Stroke Wear:
Piston ring and cylinder wear due to high-revving nature, requiring periodic top-end rebuilds.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetor synchronization and cleaning are critical for optimal performance; susceptible to gumming if fuel is left standing.
SAEc System:
Suzuki Automatic Exhaust Control (SAEC) system can be prone to carbon buildup and cable stretch, requiring periodic adjustment and cleaning.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion and wear in wiring connectors, especially in humid climates.
Clutch Slippage:
Clutch plates can wear out with aggressive riding, leading to slippage.
Brand Focus:
Suzuki has a strong heritage in motorsports, particularly in Grand Prix racing with its RGV and RG series motorcycles.
Rgv250 Development:
Evolved from the RG Gamma series, the RGV250 incorporated V-twin technology and chassis advancements inspired by Suzuki's Grand Prix race bikes.
Year Updates:
Significant updates occurred throughout its production run, including the introduction of the rotary disc valve system (RGV250M onwards) for improved performance across the rev range.
Production Years:
1987-1996
Key Production Locations:
Japan
Motorsport Success:
The RGV250 platform formed the basis for Suzuki's highly successful Grand Prix racing motorcycles, achieving numerous victories.
Contemporary Reviews:
Consistently praised by motorcycle journalists for its sharp handling, potent engine, and track-day performance.
Emissions Standards:
Designed to meet the emissions standards of its era; compliance with modern standards may require modifications.