In the 1970s, the Suzuki TS50 Gaucho was coveted by every kid who wanted to ride enduro. Nowadays, they are scarce, but this 1972 survivor is recently for sale on eBay.
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The Only Real 50-cc Motorcycle
Here’s what Suzuki said about its little new enduro bike - opens in new window or tab. when it landed in 1971:
There’s only one 50 made that’s a real motorcycle.
Anyone who scoffed at that claim reconsidered their position when they discovered that this diminutive machine came with a smooth five-horsepower, 50-cc two-stroke motor - opens in new window or tab., and a five-speed transmission. The Suzuki TS50 Gaucho could top 60 mph (carrying a lightweight pilot) and was fully street-legal. Moreover, it featured a signature upswept factory expansion-chamber exhaust system.
The 1970s Dirt Bike Scene
The ’70s were a wonderful decade for two wheels, thanks largely to the arrival of reliable, smooth Japanese machinery. This opened up motorcycling to people who wanted an affordable and dependable machine. While grown-ups could marvel at the Honda CB750 Four - opens in new window or tab., the cool kids wanted a TS50 Gaucho.
Many motorcyclists today have a lifelong passion for bikes (in some cases strictly Suzukis), which grew from their early experience with a TS50. The dirt bike scene was growing at a fierce rate in the 1970s, and this was the stand-out machine for beginners. In addition to being well-equipped and well-made, it was objectively good-looking with its upswept exhaust and big-bike proportions.
It was fast, too. With junior onboard, a Suzuki TS50 Gaucho was known to hit 60 mph, which for a pre-teen in the ’70s must felt like hanging on to an intergalactic starship.
As with so many successful vehicles, the marketing was enticing. Each year of the initial four-year production run had its own color:
- 1971 - Ascot Red
- 1972 - Strip Orange
- 1973 - Bay Blue
- 1974 - Gypsy Red
Strip Orange Survivor
Minor changes occurred over the years. In 1973 and 1974, the bikes were fitted with larger headlamps - opens in new window or tab. and a different seat - opens in new window or tab.. The earlier examples are considered somewhat prettier.
This Strip Orange 1972 Gaucho on eBay is advertised as being in “excellent used condition.” It doesn’t have the fresh look of a restored machine. The Suzuki is likely a survivor bike and may still wear its original paint.
Regardless, there are very few Suzuki TS50 Gauchos for sale anywhere. This bike, with a $2,800 Buy-It-Now price, would be a dream gift from a Suzuki fan to their extremely fortunate offspring. Or dust off your own childhood dream by preserving and riding this rare classic.
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