Lot 005: SUZUKI RG500 MK1

During the first half of the Seventies Suzuki's efforts in the 500cc class had been focused on machines utilising a twin cylinder two stroke engine developed from the road going T500 powerplant. In its final, watercooled form, the powerplant was reputed to develop in the region of 80bhp, however, although there were marketing benefits in campaigning a machine displaying a direct relationship to a road going model, it was becoming apparent that a specialist Grand Prix design would be required if Suzuki were to achieve success in the "blue ribbon" class at international level. During 1974 the four cylinder works XR14 made its debut. The new new machine featured a square four, liquid cooled two stroke engine with disc valve induction. An interesting feature of the design was the use of an independent crankshaft for each cylinder, which were themselves independent units. Breathing through four 34mm Mikuni carburettors and equipped with a six speed gearbox the compact unit was housed in a steel frame. The first two seasons showed considerable promise and in 1976, using an engine that had moved from the original 56mm x 50.5mm bore and stroke to square 54mm x 54mm dimensions, Barry Sheene took five wins in the ten round World Championship winning it by a considerable margin. 1976 was also notable for the introduction of "over the counter" RG500 which would have a similar impact at all levels of 500cc class racing to that which the TZ series twins from Yamaha had in the 250cc and 350cc classes, rejuvenating the class at club and national level and offering privateers a competitive mount at international level. Derived from the early works machines the "production" example retained the 56mm x 50.5mm engine dimensions. Interestingly, it employed the Suzuki "posi - lube" oil injection system with the oil being carried in the frame, although in practise virtually all riders discarded the oil pump and reverted to pre-mix. This attractive example has recently been restored. The machine was stripped and the frame was powder coated with the body work being finished in Life helmet colours. It is fitted with alloy wheels and the exhaust system is equipped with "silencers".