1980 Suzuki RG500

Description

Additional photos of this 1980 Suzuki RG500 are available here for your perusal.

In 1974, Suzuki debuted a new road racing machine to compete in the 500cc World Championships. It was called the RG500, and with Barry Sheene at the controls it won the 1976 and 1977 titles.

Suzuki started offering the RG500 to privateer racers in 1976, and by 1980 they were at the Mark V model. Per Bikesales in Australia, Suzuki built just 35 RG500s that year.

The Mk 5 produced 110 horsepower and it weighed 315 pounds dry. Fueling was handled by Mikuni carbs.

Starting in ’79, Suzuki tapped Campagnolo to supply the cast magnesium wheels. The main differences between the Mark IV and the Mark V was that the latter had a braced swingarm and ran twin shocks.

This example is VIN: RG50011354, Engine #: RG50011354. The seller acquired the bike in April 2022 through a Bonham’s auction.

There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.

Maintenance:
The Bonhams listing from when the seller acquired this bike noted that the machine “will require full re-commissioning as its history is not known and neither is the date when it was last used.” In preparation for the listing, the seller asked us to show that the bike runs and give it an inspection. Olly changed the oil and drain gasket and he cleaned/sync’d the carbs to get the bike running, which is shown in the video up top.

If the next owner wishes to ride the bike, Olly’s recommendations are to:
– Replace the tires
– Rebuild the front and rear brakes
– Replace the fuel lines
– Replace the head gaskets, base gaskets, and water manifold gaskets

As there is a coolant leak, we left it empty to reduce corrosion.

Modifications:
It has been painted to emulate Barry Sheene’s XR14 RG500 race bike.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Michelin tires that have aged out.

The sale includes a rear stand.

Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Suzuki is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any RG500 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!