Now is the time to ride! Or rather, it's now or never! The 2-stroke replica is an out-of-print classic. As you all know, there are no new 2-stroke engines in the domestic car lineup, and the number of used cars that remain is decreasing, but not increasing. There must be many owners who still cherish their 2-stroke engines, but it is rare to see them still in use.
However, thanks to the efforts of stores with expertise, aftermarket parts manufacturers, and used car dealers, it is still possible to acquire a vehicle that is still running well.
This time, we had the opportunity to check out the details of the RGV250 Gamma, a famous 2-stroke replica.
Interviewed by: Red Baron
1991 Gamma with high power 2-stroke liquid-cooled V-twin and curved swing arm
The "RG250 Gamma" was first introduced by Suzuki in 1983 and sparked the racer-replica boom. The concept was to replicate the WGP500 champion "RG-Gamma" as a 250cc production model. Although it is commonplace today, the RG-Gamma was the first gamma to be equipped with a full cowl and the first production model to use an aluminum frame. The model was also equipped with separate handlebars and an aluminum back step. The engine was a liquid-cooled, parallel two-cylinder, two-stroke engine that delivered 45 PS at 8,500 rpm, the strongest in its class at the time, and fully demonstrated the characteristics of a two-stroke engine that could deliver far more power and lightweight than a four-stroke engine of the same displacement. The TZR250 was overwhelmingly supported by riders who prefer sport bikes. However, other companies introduced several high-performance replicas that surpassed the Gamma, such as the TZR250, NSR250, and NSR250R. The Gamma continued to undergo improvements, but in 1988 it finally underwent a full model change with a completely redesigned engine and design, the "RGV250 Gamma.
Further improvements were made to the gamma, and in 1990, the wheel size, exhaust, and swing arm evolved. The styling was also changed. The "SP" version, which was offered alongside the standard model, was equipped with a cross-transmission, a rear shock with a reservoir tank, and a single seat, making it even more suitable for circuit use. By this time, however, riders' interests had diversified, and naked and cruiser models were booming. The last full model change was in 1996, when the bike was renamed the "RGV-Gamma 250SP" (the same name as the GP works machine), with a newly designed frame, detachable cell starter, improved swingarm, ram air system, and an engine angled at 70 degrees. It was the first and strongest racer replica and continues to receive high acclaim to this day.
Racy but compact, good footing, stoicism without luxury.
When one hears about the radical concept and equipment of the RGV250 gamma, one gets the impression that it is spartan and unwieldy. However, the chassis size is very compact compared to modern supersports, and the seat height is not high at 760mm. The vehicle weighs only 139 kg dry, or 150 kg with all the equipment. The seat is slim, and the footing is comfortable, so there is no concern about handling. The long tank, low clip-on handlebars, and rear set make the rider lean forward in a fighting posture.
The vehicle weighs an extremely light 139 kg dry weight and is very easy to trigger.
The machine we interviewed this time is a 1991 model, and its coloring is marble rouge red. Although it is more than 30 years old, the exterior of the car is shiny and good.
The motorcycle category continues to diversify, but due to various factors, including environmental regulations, the day when the Gamma and other "2-stroke racer replicas" will make a comeback is unlikely. However, I would like sports riding fans who are not familiar with 2-stroke engines to experience, even if only once, this machine that has a completely different worldview from that of modern sports bikes. Opportunities are few but not zero.
RGV250 Gamma (1991) Specifications
Overall length x width x height: 1,980 x 690 x 1,070 mm
Wheelbase: 1,380mm
Seat height: 760mm
Weight: 139 kg
Engine: Liquid-cooled 2-stroke V-twin 249cc
Maximum output: 45 PS at 9,500 rpm
Maximum torque: 3.8 kg-m at 8,000 rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 16.0 liters
Transmission: 6-speed return
Brakes: F=double disc, R=disc
Tires: F=110/70-17, R=150/60R17
Price: approx.4246 USD (1991)