Dirt bikes revolutionized off-road motorcycle racing. The first off-road bike events took place about 100 years ago, but for decades, racers used heavy, modified street machines. By the mid-1970s, bikes like this Suzuki RM125, recently listed on eBay, offered a simple, lightweight alternative that could take a beating. All-terrain motorcycle racing would never be the same.
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Suzuki’s Slow Start
In the ’70s, the four big Japanese motorcycle manufacturers offered a range of off-road bikes for the US market. The Yamaha YZ - opens in new window or tab., Honda CR - opens in new window or tab., and Kawasaki KX - opens in new window or tab. hit the ground running, but the very first Suzuki RM had some catching up to do.
Introduced in 1975, reviewers found the Suzuki RM125M lacking in the performance department. What’s worse, engines were seizing up. Suzuki soon rectified the issues by introducing a new RM125S model with a larger carburetor and improved intake and exhaust flow. The upgrades were so effective many non-S machines were converted to S spec with an official update kit.
Racing Machine
By the time this 1977 model was revealed, Suzuki had thoroughly upgraded the engine. With a “square” 54-mm bore and stroke, the updated engine delivered great performance at low rpm. An improved exhaust and a new front fork - opens in new window or tab. with the axle mounted ahead of the centerline rounded out the new equipment.
With these urgent improvements, Suzuki was very much back in the game, and the RM series was soon beloved by professional and amateur riders alike. The two-stroke RM line was available in the US until 2008, when the four-stroke RM-Z was introduced to replace it.
Keep the Past Fast
Judging by the photos, the Suzuki RM125 available on eBay looks to be freshly restored and very well-kept. The listing claims that the bike received a fresh motor, new chain and sprockets - opens in new window or tab., new brakes and tires, as well as upgraded suspension front and rear. This Suzuki seems very much ready to go.
What to do with it? Parked in the garage, this Suzuki RM125 would be a great conversation starter. But there’s a more exciting option. The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association - opens in new window or tab. offers vintage road racing, motocross, dirt track, trials, and cross-country competitions. It’s one of the biggest organizations of its type in the world, and the Post Vintage MX division features lots of RM125s like this one, duking it out against their 1970s counterparts just like they did when they were brand new.
Keep a sparkling fresh RM125 in the garage or punish it on a motocross course as Suzuki intended. Either way, it’s a win.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.