1980 Suzuki RG500: $75K
Just 35 of these rare 1980 Suzuki RG500 race bikes were built, and this one is now up for grabsThe Suzuki RG500 grand prix racer ridden in Australian Historic events in recent years by Malcolm 'Wally' Campbell is up for sale. The 1980-model RG500 is owner by New South Welshman Ray Berrey, who has put a price tag of $75,000 on the bike with full spares kit.
With two-times Australian Superbike champion Malcolm 'Wally' Campbell in the saddle, the 1980 Suzuki RG500 MkV has won many David and Goliath battles against the 1300cc four-stroke in the Unlimited Forgotten Era category of Australian Historic racing in recent years.
Arguably Campbell's greatest victory on the RG500 was when he won the 2009 Island Classic, beating Wayne Gardener (Honda CB900F Superbike) and setting a new outright Historic lap record for the 4.45km Victorian Circuit.
Suzuki's 500cc square-four racer was the popular choice for grand prix privateers from 1976 through to 1983, when Honda's RS500 triple arrived on the scene. However, finding an RG500 in race-ready condition these days is not easy task.
"A race series in Ireland for cars with RG500 engines serves as a ready destination for RG500s," says Berrey. "There aren't many complete bikes left, even with all the RG500s that came to Australia in '76 through to '78, although it's surprising the number of new parts that are still available."
The RG500 MkV Berrey has reluctantly decided to sell was sourced from the UK, and was the spare bike for British racer Stanley Woods. Just 35 MkV RGs were built by the factory during 1980.
"A Suzuki RG500 in racing condition is worth $60,000 to $70,000," says Berrey. "There are only a handful of RS500s in the world that are being regularly race."
Berrey says the asking price includes all the original parts to put it back to its 1980-spec (including 18in wheels, standard rear shock absorbers, 300mm disc rotors, and all the original steel nuts and bolts).
The complete package includes no less than eight cylinder-heads, eight barrels. Six reconditioned crankshafts, spare 17in wheels, a full set of gearbox internals plus numerous other parts. Berrey says he can supply a full list of the parts available. He can be contacted on mobile 0410 608 783.
- Story courtesy of Motorcycle Trader
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