The unrestored, two-stroke, dual-purpose 1974 Suzuki TS-250 Savage recently for sale on eBay looks nearly new in its vibrant original paint.
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Fastidious Care
Thanks to its seller's fastidious care, this remarkable survivor Suzuki TS-250 Savage might never need restoration. It was in a private collection for 16 years and reportedly kept in a climate-controlled environment. It is in very good, rust-free running condition.
A close-up scan of the listing’s photos doesn’t disappoint. The Marble Scarlet paintwork and tank graphics pop under the light. Unpainted mechanical surfaces wear the right amount of patina for a machine that’s been enjoyed and cherished in equal order.
Enduro Origins
“Enduro,” a contraction of endurance, describes a machine capable of both on- and off-road duty. It looks like a motocross bike with long-travel suspension and knobby tires, but the tank seems a little large for a race bike. Plus, it has lights and a street-legal exhaust.
The TS-250 Savage evolved from motorcycles first used in the early 20th century in the International Six Day Trial (now called the International Six Day Enduro - opens in new window or tab.). Competitors covered almost 800 miles in a grueling six days of paved and off-road challenges. Motorcycle manufacturers recognized the ISDT as a fine test of their engineering. Japanese makers joined the competition in the late 1960s with offerings like the TS-250.
Dual-Purpose Revolution
Yamaha was the first Japanese brand to land a punch with its celebrated 1968 DT1. A year later, Suzuki’s TS-250 Savage joined the dual-purpose motorcycle invasion. Makes like Greeves, Bultaco - opens in new window or tab., and CZ were instantly uncompetitive. Yamaha - opens in new window or tab. enjoyed the most competition success, but the Suzuki was the machine to have for those who did most of their riding on the street.
Cycle World - opens in new window or tab. gave Suzuki a contemporary test. The publication reported:
Whatever the Savage lacks in the dirt, it makes up for on the street. The high gearing allows the machine to cruise at freeway speeds almost effortlessly, and in-town riding is a pleasure. The relationship between the seat, footrests, and handlebars is very good for the average American’s size, and the wide, comfortable dual seat provides good support where you need it.
Parts and Maintenance
The TS-250 Savage was built to take prolonged punishment. It’s a classic dual-purpose motorcycle - opens in new window or tab. that’s still rideable. The gearbox is known to be particularly tough. The seller’s claim that the bike starts every time on first kick is not unusual for these vintage two-strokes.
This 50-year-old Suzuki will inevitably need some parts. Whether it’s gaskets, pistons, fork seals - opens in new window or tab., or even gauges and plastics, eBay has you covered - opens in new window or tab..
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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.