1996 SUZUKI RGV250 VJ23T

KEY FACTS

• A thrilling sports bike, based on Suzuki's 1990s Grand Prix racers, with low mileage and which has only been driven in dry weather.
• It is powered by the 249cc two-stroke V-twin engine, producing around 58bhp, coupled with a six-speed transmission.
• It was imported and re-registered by Fastlane Motorcycles in 2011 and has since benefited from a precautionary overhaul.
• Fully de-restricted using Suzuki genuine parts (except the exhausts) as confirmed in the included dyno graph.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• A total of 2,218 VJ23s were built through 1996-1997, though the model was never officially sold in the UK.
• 1,447 VJ23s were ‘T-models’, and only 240 were finished with the desirable Lucky Strike livery seen on this example.
• Genuine unrestricted Suzuki SAPC ignition kit, jets and airbox lid with venturi tubes, plus custom TSA exhaust pipes.
• A ‘speedo healer’ has been fitted, so that it now reads in MPH.
• A custom hardback handbook will be included, along with a raft of maintenance receipts, old MOT certificates, and the original exhaust pipes.
• While the cherished ‘N23 RGV’ registration plate is not included, it is available by separate negotiation.

CONDITION

• No known frame or body damage.
• Its two-tone paintwork presents with some light scratching around the rear fairing and tail, along with some minor imperfections on the aluminium foot protectors. 
• The white-painted wheels are in very good condition but do have a few scratches and scuffs.
• Its black vinyl seat has a few age-related marks, though the handlebars and instrument dials are in great condition, with no perceptible wear.
• No electrical faults have been detected.
• The most recent MOT test was on 18 July 2020 at 11,831 km, which was a clean pass with no advisories or defects.

SERVICE HISTORY

• Its most recent scheduled maintenance was in December 2020 at around 11,900 km, where technicians at Paul Nobbs Motorcycles in Ely cleaned and balanced the carburettors, skimmed the front brake and performed a general check-over.
• 400 miles prior to this, in September 2019, technicians changed the gearbox oil, air filter and spark plugs, before checking and adjusting the cables, drive train, coolant, steering and suspension.
• An extra earth strap has been fitted to aid the starter motor, along with a new lithium battery.
• A new clutch, crank and pistons were fitted by a previous owner as part of a precautionary overhaul. The original crank and pistons are available for inspection as evidence.
• The bike also benefits from a replacement fuel tank, top screen, hoses, chain and rear sprocket, all of which were sourced from Suzuki.
• It has also been fitted with replacement titanium nuts and bolts, at a cost of around £750, with receipts included.

SUMMARY

This Suzuki RGV250 VJ23 is in excellent overall condition and is one of the last great two-stroke race replicas. Not to be confused with the VJ21 and VJ22, the VJ23 got a total redesign from the engine out. Where previous RGVs were powered by a 90-degree two-stroke V-twin, the VJ23 got a 70-degree unit with a smaller bore and longer stroke giving it dimensions closer to square, and more akin to the GP bikes than its greatly oversquare predecessor. This translates to a greatly improved mid-range power spread; while its fully adjustable suspension and GP-inspired frame and swingarm are topped off with stunning bodywork. VJ23s remain a very uncommon sight in the UK, so this RGV250 would make a discerning addition to any collection of ultra-rare motorcycles.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.

Please note: the cherished plate shown on the vehicle is not included in the sale (though it available by separate negotiation). It will otherwise be switched back to an age-related registration plate in the event of a successful auction.