Watched this with a massive smile, i was 17 in 1988 and bought an RG 125, could only dream of the 500. But the weekends spent with my mates ( AR 125, DT 125 , and a 1980 derestricted RD 125 ) The memories and that beautiful smell... priceless.
I actually did have an RG500 when I was 19, due to the rather relaxed licensing laws here in Australia in the 80's. It used to frighten the hell out of me when it got in the band. Now I'm 53, with a S1000RR and the RG would probably feel slow. Not in 1988 did it! Like every guy that owned one, I wish I still had it.
I don’t believe that you would find it slow especially if you took it on the track … so light and powerful. I think it’s similar hp per Litre as your RR … I got a run on a track on Pat Henans old RG race bike , owned by John Woodley in NZ and the only bike that day that could touch it ridden really well was a TZ350 Yamaha, the Yamaha was a knife edge powerband to ride , the Suzuki much more relaxed … If anyone out there in STRAYA has an RG500 stock street bike, two seater, I have a 1981 GSX1100 I’d be willing to trade … I’m in Kalgoorlie Boulder …
I think top end speed is misleading in terms of excitement. My KTM300 was far more exciting to ride than my Fireblade even though it did half the speed 😁
An important point. The main reason for the bikes GP success was that by being a square 4 that that allowed for the use of rotary valves. Up to that point Yamaha's dominance of that GP class was based on their use of the in-line 4 and the relatively newer reed valve technology. Suzuki's ace up-their-sleeve was that someone in their racing department did some outside-the-box thinking and realised that the 60s tech rotary valves were superior to the 70s tech reed valves in terms absolute horsepower delivery. All they need to do in order to make this possible was to build a square 4 engine.
Can't stop 😀I had an RD 350 YPVS F2 but a friend of ours had an RG500 in Pepsi colours. We were all very jealous and was convinced it was going to kill him.
At the age of 52, I think it is a thing of huge beauty! Grew up on a diet of RG's, RD's etc. That bike is way better looking than any of the modern stuff!!
It may not be "pretty", but I think it looks stunning and full of charm in a way that no modern bike ever does anymore. Those four pipes for example...
The GP bikes had the real killer looks but I think they did very good with the street version, solo seat looks better, weather wasn't the greatest but didn't look to be pushing its potential
I love watching videos on RG500s. This is a cool video that very accurately represents anyone who likes these machines…….they’re such a buzz. Actually very smooth, much more so than RD500 I have always wanted an RG500 so went and bought one two years ago. The best thing I have ever bought…..
Had a Pepsi one back in the very early 90s. What a blast to ride. Its all about the powerband. Hanging onto the gear would reveal an extra kick near the red line. This brings back memories. It certainly felt quick at the time, and very light. I got the 250 version a few years after I sold it. I missed the smell sound and 'fizziness'. Top video
I used to work for Cusworths Motorcycles as a sales person back in the day and I was able to ride all the latest bikes coming out in the mid to late eighties. I remember riding this bike all the time. Once you got it in the power band, this became a weapon. I absolutely loved this model and like everyone watching, I wish I had one now. Spectacular bike. This was the era of RD500LC, Honda 400, GSXR1100R, GPZ1000RX and I got to ride them all, but this was my absolute favourite. The memories! What a video!
I bought my RG500 in 1987 and loved it, in standard form it smoked my mates (literally lol) on their GPZ1100s and GSX-R 1100s, I then got the Stan Stephens stage 2 tune and there was nothing like it, I still miss the smell and soundtrack of the RG.
Stage 2 Stan Stevens tune eh? I bottled out on a stage 3 tuned 500LC. why? Coz I set off nice and steady upto just over 70mph then the front wheel landed on the ground. Shit I didn't realise I was wheeling till then lol. Oh happy days. I'm 60 now but 2 strokes are in my blood.
My first 'big bike' in 1987, was a 1986 RG500 with 1500 miles! Cost me £2995 (and that included leathers, helmet, gloves and a £200 insurance contribution!). I was 18 years old, and Lincolnshire was my playground... (and it still is!) 😉
RZ350 first bike. Threw a set of pipes on it and never fell out of love with it. Always dreamed of move up to an RG500. That bike taught me real throttle control and paved the way for a lifetime of fun at the club racing level.
Loved this video - awesome! I owned the 87 RG250 version of this bike. Was a great bike. Excellent handling & nimble. Fun machine back in the day & great for pulling wheelies away from the lights too!
I had a 1970 Kawasaki H1 Mach III. Now there's a bike with (non) handling and (non) braking to scare the crap out of you! Mind you, I was 19 years old and saw it as pure unadulterated fun! Lucky I'm still alive.
Bump starting a 2 stroke brings back fun memories. Guess they didn't have an NSR for you to take in the shop? Can't wait to see my dream bike next episode
Of course the Ducati featured last segment is outstanding, although that said perhaps there’s something wrong with me but I think this bike is beautiful too. Just wish you were able to have it on a better day.
My first bike was an imported NSR400. I miss the smell of two stroke and that ring-a-dingding engine note. This video brought back a LOT of great memories. Thanks Chris and team for making an old man smile!
Most fun i EVER had was the brief period of time i owned a heavily tuned RD350LC YPVS engine *inside* a Cagiva MITO, which resulted in the beloved MITO-RD. During early 90s it was possible to race (and kick in the arse) a LOT of powerful 4 stroke (CBRs FZRs and GSXRs) down stelvio pass feeling like Mr. Wayne Rainey. GLORIOUS times
I wish I could time travel back to 1987. My Yamaha FZ750 would annihilate your oil burner. I used to red-line the shit out of it. How I never came off it I'll never know. Happy days. My next bike is going to be the Suzuki Hayabusa.
Thanks for bringing back the memories Chris. Having owned and raced 2 Suzuki RGV-250’s in the 90’s in the Australian 250 production class, nothing comes close to the smell of two-strokes starting cold on race day. Luckily, I kept one and put all the road parts back on it. It hasn’t been started in over 20 years and is now worth more than 5 times what I paid for it brand new. Phillip Island was my home racetrack and it’s always interesting when I come across people who have had a couple of track days on say a brand new R1 and I mention that based on my times on stock road biased tyres only in the 90’s that in 5 laps I’d be overtaking them. One day I’ll get it going again and see what it’s like with today’s tyre technology. 👍😎🇦🇺
Great! Love the bump start at the end - I remember being at Silverstone back in the day when race starts were still bump starts. It went from dead silence to apocalyptic in about 1.5 seconds (usually with Ron Haslam getting the drop on everyone). Happy days! Can't wait for the D16 episode...
I actually was a teenager in the '80's, and a mate of mines older brother got one of those when I was 15. I told him it sounded like a hairdryer. He took me for a spin on the back. I then told him it was a bloody psychotic hairdryer on steroids and amphetamines. He pissed himself laughing, and whenever he saw me for about 5 years after that he'd mutter, " bloody hairdryer," and chuckle. Gods but that bike was effin' awesome!!
Nice vid Chris 👍 It reminded me of the times when I had my RG250 Gamma MK III, happy days indeed. BTW, tell James the 500 is a square four, and not an inline four 😉. Please keep making these video's on classic bikes 👍. Maybe RD500, RC30, RC45, OW01, VTR1000 SP, etc next 😁
Loved this - you understood this beast - I owned one for 3 years back in the late 80's . Yes, somehow I survived! Hitting peak power, front wheel in the air on every shift, a precision bike with no tolerance for error. Hooligan bike 100%
additionally, so cool to watch someone that truly loves these machines, not just for views. U look like a kid in a candy store talking about them! Gets people even more exited about motorcycles. Just wanted to say that, its a pleasure watching you. Thanks for the great content
1988, 18 years old test rode one of these at my local Suzuki dealership in N.Z. Only rode for 15 minutes, decided it would most probably kill me in a month so took it back and ended up getting a GSXR 400 instead. Now have an 87 and 89 GSXR 1100 and apart from a couple of 2 Stroke enduro bike have stayed with the 4 stoke bikes. As that thing scared the heck out of me.
I was lucky enough to ride my friend’s RG500 back in the day, and his was super-fit and had a 2nd power and from 9.5K to 11K, power wheelyed in 2nd………..and was possibly breathed upon. Thanks Chris…….the gorgeous noise of that takes me straight back 😁😁😁😁
9:34 I remember the RG (and RD), as well as a load of other great bikes coming out. The early-mid 80s was a fantastic time for bike models of all types. I was 18 in 1985, and remember these bikes being delivered to JT Morgan when they were in Llanelli. I lusted after these, but they were way beyond my pocket...and they are, once again!
it is. its a rotary valve square four with two cranks.. there never was a gamma in a inline four configuration. he's wrong about that. I believe that yamaha RZ was a vee engine with twin cranks.
I remember reading an article back in the day which said you could easily swap the exhaust for the GP bike' exhaust, giving the road legal RG500 an immediate 14 hp increase.....it apparently fits right on.
Great video. Love the 2-strokes since I grew up with the 50 ccs in the mid 70s and still regret I gave away my RD 250 LC with it‘s 38 hp later. I even used it for a two week holiday trip to corse with my girlfriend. From a today’s perspective it sounds incredible, but it really worked. As long one is younger one is ready do make compromises … 😉
Still have mine I picked up at the Toronto Airport in 85. Took her to the track, put it together and raced it that weekend! Mickey mouse ears and turn signals never installed to this day. Still my baby! With jollymoto pipes ans all the steel bits removed it was under 300lb dry. Steel braided lines and decent pads and gold valves made the front decent. Was actually quicker than the gsxr 750 that came out the same year, at least up to a hundred mph. Chris you need a bit more time and practice to get her through the gears on the back wheel ya hoon! 😉
Absolutely loved my ‘84 KR250 tandem twin - quirky 80s as it got - go for any decent blast and have to push it straight back in the shed and change the rings!😁👊
Brilliant stuff as always! Was lucky enough to have a RZ350 before prices went crazy on them. Very run bike. You fellas are so lucky that you have access to all the 250,350,400 and 500 road smokers in the Uk. We were very limited in comparison here in the US unfortunately.
takes me back to 1988 TT . on a non race day coming back from Ramsey back to Laxey where i was camping on an RD 350 got passed by two guys one on an RD 500 the other on the RG 500, when i say passed i mean passed, these guys were on it. four plumes of blue smoke from each. didn't feel bad being passed, more of a pleasure, happy days. never got the chance to ride one but being blown by one is the next best thing.
Great video! I started my riding on two strokes and everything you said is true, they are wonderful engines. I was lucky enough to ride a friends RG500 back in the late 90's, brakes and handling were a bit iffy(I didn't like the 'tucky' nature of the 16 inch front wheel) but boy oh boy, that engine!
The RG500 is a motorcycle that looks best with a rider on it. I love the 80s slab-sided looks of it. Guarantee you show up at a Bike Night on this and you'll get much admiration. The front disk looks like it had a crack.
I Broke Down In Nottingham In 1995 On My Castrol VFR 400RR And Two Gentlemen Pulled Over To Help Me. They Were Riding(No Joke) RD 500 V FOUR And A GAMMER 500. They Identified my Bikes Fault As The Second Throttle Cable to close the Throttle Had Loosened And Fallen From Its Holder. They Fixed My Throttle Cable By Hand And Then Sped Off, I will Always Admire These Guy As The Helped Me, THANK YOU :) PS The Livery And Tech On These Bikes Was Prenominal Compared To My Boyhood Ride:) Two Stroke Smell Is Like Fish n Chips lol
Brilliant stuff real world experience counts for alot different brake pads etc but even my k6gsxr brakes are great for me ,, any thing old can be improved by, modern stuff,, longer time with the bike you have to adjust your riding ,,, making sure I get the lottery tickets to visit the shop ☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️
I had a blue and white one when i was 22, amazing bikes, like many who had one, wish i never sold it. My brother had one of the official Skoal Bandit versions imported by Heron Suzuki with document to prove. I have memories of being on the back of that as a teenager, great days.
I love Geeking out on Bikes with you Mate! Yeah, I feel like I’m having a conversation with you almost. Your content is top notch. Keep it up! BTW my Blank Check Bike is the 998 . Grew up just loving the hell out of it stunning looks that still hold true today. Would love a museum quality piece someday 😂
U lucky Son of a Daddy! Ive enjoyed a heavily modified Kawasaki 150RR (200cc Block, Head & piston kit) it was amazing... ive had a Ducati Monster M900, Yamaha Thundercat 600 carb etc... But 2 Strokes Are Awesome!!!
What I remember most about them from the 80s was that people, including myself, bought various incarnations of the 350LC. Cheap to buy. 500 Gammas were as pricey as many big four strokes so a lot of potential buyers went from a 350LC or X7 etc and straight onto something like a GSX-R or FZR after a year or so. Still, the RG500 was and remains extremely desirable and maybe even more so now.
Had one when was 18, many years was sad because need to trade it to a race bike…. (Tried to race, but never fast enough) A few years ago found one for sale in my home country (Finland) and bought it, have not been many at sale. Have alot of bikes today in my collection, but the RG 500 is just something special…. Love it…. 2 stroke, is a different world
My brother had one back in the day and I rode it quite a few times. That power band was so addictive and so much fun to ride! This video made me smile the whole way through👍👍
In comparison it makes may 1976 Suzuki GT500 seem very humble, but I can honestly say when I ride that it is an "occasion" and at 62 years old it still makes me irresponsible. It's very hard to ride a 2 stroke sensibly, there's just something constantly telling you to give it full throttle. The RG500 is the one bike I wish I'd bought back in the day and been able to hang on to until the present day.
Funny you mention typical 80’s tropes, i can only imagine how people looked at King Kenny and his very country boy roots and attitude in the GP paddock
Before getting my full licence I always dreamed of getting a RGV250. (Ended up getting a CBR400 from Boxhill) I could only imagine how savage the bike that inspired it was.
I’ve got two 1992 RGV250 N models and one 1997 RGV250SP. One of the N models is a genuine Lucky Strike model and the 1997 SP is also a genuine Lucky Strike. I have an eye on a 1986 500 Gamma, but the guy that has it won’t let it go, and I honestly don’t blame him.
Me and a friend both owned RG500's in '86, I was 20 years old, my younger brother owned the RZ500 (Australia), their were no speed cameras lol, the RG was by far the better bike. I own an MT09SP nowadays, much more civilized, and just as fast, but I still dream of my old RG.
Imo one of the most interesting things about this bike is the square four config - I didn't hear that mentioned. W/ twin cranks. This and the fact that only a few years separates the stupid Kettle and the RG500.
Hail Seizure. As a kid I lusted so badly after a Stan Stevens tuned RG500 in Skoal Bandits livery, split rim wheels and all the toys, which sat in the window of Armstrongs on Westgate Road Newcastle. Sweet memories.
I bought my Suzuki RG500 in 1989. I was 19 when I was actually a teenager. I am lucky I survived. I still have it. And another.
Watched this with a massive smile, i was 17 in 1988 and bought an RG 125, could only dream of the 500. But the weekends spent with my mates ( AR 125, DT 125 , and a 1980 derestricted RD 125 ) The memories and that beautiful smell... priceless.
I actually did have an RG500 when I was 19, due to the rather relaxed licensing laws here in Australia in the 80's. It used to frighten the hell out of me when it got in the band. Now I'm 53, with a S1000RR and the RG would probably feel slow. Not in 1988 did it! Like every guy that owned one, I wish I still had it.
I don’t believe that you would find it slow especially if you took it on the track … so light and powerful. I think it’s similar hp per Litre as your RR … I got a run on a track on Pat Henans old RG race bike , owned by John Woodley in NZ and the only bike that day that could touch it ridden really well was a TZ350 Yamaha, the Yamaha was a knife edge powerband to ride , the Suzuki much more relaxed … If anyone out there in STRAYA has an RG500 stock street bike, two seater, I have a 1981 GSX1100 I’d be willing to trade … I’m in Kalgoorlie Boulder …
Even the 125 was like that. I had one. Powerband was jumpy.
I think top end speed is misleading in terms of excitement. My KTM300 was far more exciting to ride than my Fireblade even though it did half the speed 😁
@@chrisbraid2907 I still have mine. Blue & White livery 09/85 production bought new in 1986. It'll be up for sale. After my funeral. = ]
@@theblytonian3906 not that I want you dead, but let me know, if I'm not after my funeral ;)
In-line four he says. Eh? It’s a square 4, not an inline.
I shouting at the screen too 🤭😂😂
Yeh definitely not inline 4! Heard him say that and came straight to the comments 🤣
An important point. The main reason for the bikes GP success was that by being a square 4 that that allowed for the use of rotary valves. Up to that point Yamaha's dominance of that GP class was based on their use of the in-line 4 and the relatively newer reed valve technology. Suzuki's ace up-their-sleeve was that someone in their racing department did some outside-the-box thinking and realised that the 60s tech rotary valves were superior to the 70s tech reed valves in terms absolute horsepower delivery. All they need to do in order to make this possible was to build a square 4 engine.
Square 4 has two cylinders in-line in 4 different directions. How's that? hahaha
To be exact it is a Stepped squire four with the rear cylinders higher than the front ones which made it even more compact…..
Can't stop 😀I had an RD 350 YPVS F2 but a friend of ours had an RG500 in Pepsi colours. We were all very jealous and was convinced it was going to kill him.
Still got the 7speed mito I bought when I was 17. Gotta love the scream of a little 2 stroke. Doesn't hurt that it looks like a mini 916 either.
I still have my RG 500 that i bought in 1985…..Love IT
You are a one smart human being. Take good care of your bike. I'd love to have one too.
I also have my RG 500 and I will never sell it !!!
At the age of 52, I think it is a thing of huge beauty! Grew up on a diet of RG's, RD's etc. That bike is way better looking than any of the modern stuff!!
Way more personality & character than the soulless sports bikes of today. I owned the same model RG250 version.
It may not be "pretty", but I think it looks stunning and full of charm in a way that no modern bike ever does anymore. Those four pipes for example...
It's one of the best looking bikes ever
I think it's a great looking bike, perhaps you had to be around when it first came out to truly appreciate the looks of this and the early GSXR's.
it's pretty, the bike I always missed out on
nope.@@joeyrempe
The GP bikes had the real killer looks but I think they did very good with the street version, solo seat looks better, weather wasn't the greatest but didn't look to be pushing its potential
I love watching videos on RG500s. This is a cool video that very accurately represents anyone who likes these machines…….they’re such a buzz. Actually very smooth, much more so than RD500
I have always wanted an RG500 so went and bought one two years ago. The best thing I have ever bought…..
where did you get it from?
Had a Pepsi one back in the very early 90s. What a blast to ride. Its all about the powerband. Hanging onto the gear would reveal an extra kick near the red line. This brings back memories. It certainly felt quick at the time, and very light. I got the 250 version a few years after I sold it. I missed the smell sound and 'fizziness'. Top video
Started on a two stroke YZ-80.
That was 40 years ago.
They’re something else, these two strokes.
I used to work for Cusworths Motorcycles as a sales person back in the day and I was able to ride all the latest bikes coming out in the mid to late eighties. I remember riding this bike all the time.
Once you got it in the power band, this became a weapon. I absolutely loved this model and like everyone watching, I wish I had one now. Spectacular bike.
This was the era of RD500LC, Honda 400, GSXR1100R, GPZ1000RX and I got to ride them all, but this was my absolute favourite. The memories! What a video!
I bought my RG500 in 1987 and loved it, in standard form it smoked my mates (literally lol) on their GPZ1100s and GSX-R 1100s, I then got the Stan Stephens stage 2 tune and there was nothing like it, I still miss the smell and soundtrack of the RG.
Stage 2 Stan Stevens tune eh? I bottled out on a stage 3 tuned 500LC. why? Coz I set off nice and steady upto just over 70mph then the front wheel landed on the ground. Shit I didn't realise I was wheeling till then lol. Oh happy days. I'm 60 now but 2 strokes are in my blood.
@@sydsnott5042 I'm 65 but the smell of two stroke takes me back to my teens lol.
Square 4 with rotary disc valves !
My first 'big bike' in 1987, was a 1986 RG500 with 1500 miles! Cost me £2995 (and that included leathers, helmet, gloves and a £200 insurance contribution!). I was 18 years old, and Lincolnshire was my playground... (and it still is!) 😉
RZ350 first bike. Threw a set of pipes on it and never fell out of love with it. Always dreamed of move up to an RG500. That bike taught me real throttle control and paved the way for a lifetime of fun at the club racing level.
Loved this video - awesome! I owned the 87 RG250 version of this bike. Was a great bike. Excellent handling & nimble. Fun machine back in the day & great for pulling wheelies away from the lights too!
I had a 1970 Kawasaki H1 Mach III. Now there's a bike with (non) handling and (non) braking to scare the crap out of you! Mind you, I was 19 years old and saw it as pure unadulterated fun! Lucky I'm still alive.
Ditto and the best sound. Best fun too!
H2. The widow maker. Made the H1 seem slow lol. I still remember riding each of them in the 80's.
Worth watching for the last 5 seconds alone. Brilliant. Brings back memories. This one was before my time but the 250’s were me.
Bump starting a 2 stroke brings back fun memories. Guess they didn't have an NSR for you to take in the shop? Can't wait to see my dream bike next episode
I had a NS400R in Rothmans colours back in the day, loved that thing… Can’t believe the money they’re fetching now😳
Of course the Ducati featured last segment is outstanding, although that said perhaps there’s something wrong with me but I think this bike is beautiful too. Just wish you were able to have it on a better day.
Thank you so much for the raw engine sound segment xx love this series
Lovely bike, I had a little two stroke 80cc as a first bike. Just the act of kickstarting a bike is really nostalgic.
My first bike was an imported NSR400. I miss the smell of two stroke and that ring-a-dingding engine note. This video brought back a LOT of great memories. Thanks Chris and team for making an old man smile!
06:20 Haaaa look at that smoke. Love it. I had an RGV 250 years ago, loved the little zinger. I miss it.
Most fun i EVER had was the brief period of time i owned a heavily tuned RD350LC YPVS engine *inside* a Cagiva MITO, which resulted in the beloved MITO-RD. During early 90s it was possible to race (and kick in the arse) a LOT of powerful 4 stroke (CBRs FZRs and GSXRs) down stelvio pass feeling like Mr. Wayne Rainey. GLORIOUS times
I wish I could time travel back to 1987. My Yamaha FZ750 would annihilate your oil burner. I used to red-line the shit out of it. How I never came off it I'll never know. Happy days. My next bike is going to be the Suzuki Hayabusa.
Thanks for bringing back the memories Chris. Having owned and raced 2 Suzuki RGV-250’s in the 90’s in the Australian 250 production class, nothing comes close to the smell of two-strokes starting cold on race day. Luckily, I kept one and put all the road parts back on it. It hasn’t been started in over 20 years and is now worth more than 5 times what I paid for it brand new. Phillip Island was my home racetrack and it’s always interesting when I come across people who have had a couple of track days on say a brand new R1 and I mention that based on my times on stock road biased tyres only in the 90’s that in 5 laps I’d be overtaking them. One day I’ll get it going again and see what it’s like with today’s tyre technology. 👍😎🇦🇺
Wow, my two favorite bikes ever, you guys are nailing this. Owned one back in the day. God I’d wished I’d kept it.
Great! Love the bump start at the end - I remember being at Silverstone back in the day when race starts were still bump starts. It went from dead silence to apocalyptic in about 1.5 seconds (usually with Ron Haslam getting the drop on everyone). Happy days! Can't wait for the D16 episode...
I actually was a teenager in the '80's, and a mate of mines older brother got one of those when I was 15. I told him it sounded like a hairdryer. He took me for a spin on the back. I then told him it was a bloody psychotic hairdryer on steroids and amphetamines. He pissed himself laughing, and whenever he saw me for about 5 years after that he'd mutter, " bloody hairdryer," and chuckle. Gods but that bike was effin' awesome!!
Nice vid Chris 👍 It reminded me of the times when I had my RG250 Gamma MK III, happy days indeed. BTW, tell James the 500 is a square four, and not an inline four 😉. Please keep making these video's on classic bikes 👍. Maybe RD500, RC30, RC45, OW01, VTR1000 SP, etc next 😁
NS400R :)
@@DragonNova Yes please 😁
One of the best series on yourtube...
Loved this - you understood this beast - I owned one for 3 years back in the late 80's . Yes, somehow I survived! Hitting peak power, front wheel in the air on every shift, a precision bike with no tolerance for error. Hooligan bike 100%
Love it. Brings back memories of my 1984 Kawasaki AR125LC. 21 brake model on L plates.
additionally, so cool to watch someone that truly loves these machines, not just for views. U look like a kid in a candy store talking about them! Gets people even more exited about motorcycles. Just wanted to say that, its a pleasure watching you. Thanks for the great content
4 exhausts! I LOVE IT!
1988, 18 years old test rode one of these at my local Suzuki dealership in N.Z. Only rode for 15 minutes, decided it would most probably kill me in a month so took it back and ended up getting a GSXR 400 instead.
Now have an 87 and 89 GSXR 1100 and apart from a couple of 2 Stroke enduro bike have stayed with the 4 stoke bikes.
As that thing scared the heck out of me.
I was lucky enough to ride my friend’s RG500 back in the day, and his was super-fit and had a 2nd power and from 9.5K to 11K, power wheelyed in 2nd………..and was possibly breathed upon. Thanks Chris…….the gorgeous noise of that takes me straight back 😁😁😁😁
The NS400 was the more looker two stroke with its faired in side stand 😍
TRIPLE
V3
9:34 I remember the RG (and RD), as well as a load of other great bikes coming out. The early-mid 80s was a fantastic time for bike models of all types. I was 18 in 1985, and remember these bikes being delivered to JT Morgan when they were in Llanelli. I lusted after these, but they were way beyond my pocket...and they are, once again!
All these years I thought it was a square four?
it is. its a rotary valve square four with two cranks.. there never was a gamma in a inline four configuration. he's wrong about that. I believe that yamaha RZ was a vee engine with twin cranks.
They made a mistake. ⬜ 4
That bike is iconic, love it.
Stunner. I had a Skoal Bandit one for a few years. The only bike I wish I still had.
What a time trip, loved it😊
I remember reading an article back in the day which said you could easily swap the exhaust for the GP bike' exhaust, giving the road legal RG500 an immediate 14 hp increase.....it apparently fits right on.
Great video. Love the 2-strokes since I grew up with the 50 ccs in the mid 70s and still regret I gave away my RD 250 LC with it‘s 38 hp later. I even used it for a two week holiday trip to corse with my girlfriend. From a today’s perspective it sounds incredible, but it really worked. As long one is younger one is ready do make compromises … 😉
very special bike, and so are all 2 stroke race bikes. really really cool! yes this thing when u get it in the power band it screams so nice!
That raw gnarly sound is just music to ears!!! ❤️❤️❤️
Had one, love it!
I'd forgotten how amazing these sound.
I had two of these first one lasted 8 days then wrote it off 2nd one 23000 miles didnt crash it is now retired in my garage and takes pride of place.
had an NSR 250. and a TDR 250 back in the day. yeah the scent of two stroke and the 'lively perormance'. great memories
Still have mine I picked up at the Toronto Airport in 85. Took her to the track, put it together and raced it that weekend! Mickey mouse ears and turn signals never installed to this day. Still my baby!
With jollymoto pipes ans all the steel bits removed it was under 300lb dry. Steel braided lines and decent pads and gold valves made the front decent. Was actually quicker than the gsxr 750 that came out the same year, at least up to a hundred mph.
Chris you need a bit more time and practice to get her through the gears on the back wheel ya hoon! 😉
Absolutely loved my ‘84 KR250 tandem twin - quirky 80s as it got - go for any decent blast and have to push it straight back in the shed and change the rings!😁👊
Probably the most honest appraisal of the RG. The brakes felt inadequate, even back in 1989, when I had mine! Thanks Chris. Still good fun.
Cheers Martin, he did have fun!
I bought a 73 kwaka 500 Mach 3 when I was 17 years old, only knew two speeds, stop, and flat out.
Love this! Lucky boy, Chris
There’s lots more to come…
I had one of these at the age of 20 lol got a Stan Stevens turn to smooth out the power band and of course more power was an awesome big!!
Mate drooled over one of these in the dealer in 86 in Skol bandit green Awsome bike 🏍🎉👍🏁
64,000 kms on my '93 KDX250SR. Never fails to put a smile on my chevy chase.
Great vid, to back years. My mate had the RG500. The other had the RD500, which I think looked better. I went for the GPZ600R.
Brilliant stuff as always! Was lucky enough to have a RZ350 before prices went crazy on them. Very run bike. You fellas are so lucky that you have access to all the 250,350,400 and 500 road smokers in the Uk. We were very limited in comparison here in the US unfortunately.
takes me back to 1988 TT . on a non race day coming back from Ramsey back to Laxey where i was camping on an RD 350 got passed by two guys one on an RD 500 the other on the RG 500, when i say passed i mean passed, these guys were on it. four plumes of blue smoke from each. didn't feel bad being passed, more of a pleasure, happy days. never got the chance to ride one but being blown by one is the next best thing.
Great video! I started my riding on two strokes and everything you said is true, they are wonderful engines. I was lucky enough to ride a friends RG500 back in the late 90's, brakes and handling were a bit iffy(I didn't like the 'tucky' nature of the 16 inch front wheel) but boy oh boy, that engine!
Yes they 500 Gamma I loved them back in the eighties I had two strokes hondas and yammies the rd350lc was the most hooligan bike out there !
The RG500 is a motorcycle that looks best with a rider on it. I love the 80s slab-sided looks of it. Guarantee you show up at a Bike Night on this and you'll get much admiration. The front disk looks like it had a crack.
I Broke Down In Nottingham In 1995 On My Castrol VFR 400RR And Two Gentlemen Pulled Over To Help Me.
They Were Riding(No Joke) RD 500 V FOUR And A GAMMER 500.
They Identified my Bikes Fault As The Second Throttle Cable to close the Throttle Had Loosened And Fallen From Its Holder.
They Fixed My Throttle Cable By Hand And Then Sped Off, I will Always Admire These Guy As The Helped Me, THANK YOU :)
PS The Livery And Tech On These Bikes Was Prenominal Compared To My Boyhood Ride:)
Two Stroke Smell Is Like Fish n Chips lol
Brilliant stuff real world experience counts for alot different brake pads etc but even my k6gsxr brakes are great for me ,, any thing old can be improved by, modern stuff,, longer time with the bike you have to adjust your riding ,,, making sure I get the lottery tickets to visit the shop ☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️
Love That bike 😍😍😍
The yamaha rd350 and rz350 is an awesome bike too.
I had a blue and white one when i was 22, amazing bikes, like many who had one, wish i never sold it. My brother had one of the official Skoal Bandit versions imported by Heron Suzuki with document to prove. I have memories of being on the back of that as a teenager, great days.
I love Geeking out on Bikes with you Mate! Yeah, I feel like I’m having a conversation with you almost. Your content is top notch. Keep it up! BTW my Blank Check Bike is the 998 . Grew up just loving the hell out of it stunning looks that still hold true today. Would love a museum quality piece someday 😂
U lucky Son of a Daddy! Ive enjoyed a heavily modified Kawasaki 150RR (200cc Block, Head & piston kit) it was amazing... ive had a Ducati Monster M900, Yamaha Thundercat 600 carb etc... But 2 Strokes Are Awesome!!!
What I remember most about them from the 80s was that people, including myself, bought various incarnations of the 350LC.
Cheap to buy.
500 Gammas were as pricey as many big four strokes so a lot of potential buyers went from a 350LC or X7 etc and straight onto something like a GSX-R or FZR after a year or so.
Still, the RG500 was and remains extremely desirable and maybe even more so now.
Had one when was 18, many years was sad because need to trade it to a race bike…. (Tried to race, but never fast enough) A few years ago found one for sale in my home country (Finland) and bought it, have not been many at sale. Have alot of bikes today in my collection, but the RG 500 is just something special…. Love it…. 2 stroke, is a different world
My brother had one back in the day and I rode it quite a few times. That power band was so addictive and so much fun to ride! This video made me smile the whole way through👍👍
We've done our job!
@@BikeWorldTVshow absolutely you have, cheers 🍻
In comparison it makes may 1976 Suzuki GT500 seem very humble, but I can honestly say when I ride that it is an "occasion" and at 62 years old it still makes me irresponsible. It's very hard to ride a 2 stroke sensibly, there's just something constantly telling you to give it full throttle. The RG500 is the one bike I wish I'd bought back in the day and been able to hang on to until the present day.
Brave lad riding in that weather. Absolutely lovely bike though, I'm actually not convinced that there's a better tricolor blue combo ever painted.
I had an RG400, random purchase for a grand , it ran well once fettled 👌🏻😎
Reminds me when I was 16 and got a '68 Dodge Charger with a 383.
It rained for 2 days straight......and I couldn't nail it 🤬
haha
wd Chris :-)
The RG 500 was my dream bike as a learner back in the mid 80s. When I passed my test I ended up with a Yamaha FZ750.
Can't wait for the Desmo episode!
Uma linda máquina, que hj em dia ainda seria atual❗️🇧🇷
Funny you mention typical 80’s tropes, i can only imagine how people looked at King Kenny and his very country boy roots and attitude in the GP paddock
Eeeeeek, Desmo! 🙌🏻
I love this Chris, I owned one in Pepsi colours, if it hadn’t been stolen I’d probably still have it. They fetch a few quid nowadays.
Rode a few times the Yami version. Lot's of fun as were the RGV250M's through the mid 90's.
Before getting my full licence I always dreamed of getting a RGV250. (Ended up getting a CBR400 from Boxhill) I could only imagine how savage the bike that inspired it was.
I’ve got two 1992 RGV250 N models and one 1997 RGV250SP. One of the N models is a genuine Lucky Strike model and the 1997 SP is also a genuine Lucky Strike. I have an eye on a 1986 500 Gamma, but the guy that has it won’t let it go, and I honestly don’t blame him.
Great vid’. You were on some of Derbyshires best roads there too.
Wooohooooooooo, reminds me of my two stroke days. That’s what they’re like……
Awesome… hopefully you can get on on a RD/RZV500 too compare 👍
Me and a friend both owned RG500's in '86, I was 20 years old, my younger brother owned the RZ500 (Australia), their were no speed cameras lol, the RG was by far the better bike. I own an MT09SP nowadays, much more civilized, and just as fast, but I still dream of my old RG.
Imo one of the most interesting things about this bike is the square four config - I didn't hear that mentioned. W/ twin cranks. This and the fact that only a few years separates the stupid Kettle and the RG500.
Hail Seizure. As a kid I lusted so badly after a Stan Stevens tuned RG500 in Skoal Bandits livery, split rim wheels and all the toys, which sat in the window of Armstrongs on Westgate Road Newcastle. Sweet memories.
I loved the KR 250
More 2 stroke contents please!
Nice bike
Single seat, micron chambers, carbon stingers, Motul premix Aeroquip lines , SBS pads 38mm carb conversion modded rotary valves……..fkn bliss