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Incomplete Restoration – 1973 Benelli SS250 SuperSport

In Italy, Less than 5k, Standard by AbhiLeave a Comment

In 1962, Benelli and Motobi merged, and Benelli acquired Motobi’s engine designs in the process. Over time, the Motobi motor evolved into 175, 200, and then 250cc variants. Like General Motors did with Chevy/Oldsmobile/Pontiac etc, Benelli and Motobi practiced a bit of brand engineering: the Motobi motor ended up powering a motorcycle known in the US as the SuperSport and …

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Early BMW Hybrid – 1983 BMW R80ST

In Germany, Less than 5k, Standard by Ted CloughLeave a Comment

The R80ST was the street-only version of the R80GS. It had slightly different styling, and the seat was slightly lower. It used the same air-cooled boxer twin engine with a dry clutch that put out 50hp at 6500 rpm. The 5-speed tranny drove the rear through the same Monolever shaft drive. Wheels were 19″ front, 18″ rear, for the street.

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Be a Hero – 2009 Suzuki SFV650 Gladius

In Japan, Less than 5k, Standard by AbhiLeave a Comment

Suzuki introduced the Gladius as a replacement for the very successful SV650. While it was an objectively better bike in most ways, the American market did not take kindly to it and it was recently replaced with…the SV650 again. Apparently Suzuki sold at least one Gladius, because someone is trying to sell his and he’s resorted to trying to convince …

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1992 Suzuki Bandit GSF400

In Japan, Less than 5k, Sport by AbhiLeave a Comment

When the 400 Bandit was offered to the US for the first time, Cycle World said “as a styling exercise…it may be the most exciting bike of 1991.” A couple of decades later, and it still looks interesting. Suzuki first created the model in 1989, but the US wouldn’t get it for another couple of years – by that point …

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1967 Yamaha YR-1 Grand Prix

In Japan, Less than 5k, Sport by AbhiLeave a Comment

Here’s a first year example of the Yamaha Grand Prix, also known as the YR-1. It was the biggest bike in their line up, and Yamaha’s first 350cc production engine. Despite the relative diminutive size, this bike was highly competitive with British 650s. Thanks to a chassis and engine that was suitable from road racing from the factory, it was …