Kawasaki KR-1
82/100 Overall
73 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki KR-1 vs Suzuki RG250 Gamma
Kawasaki KR-1 scores 82/100 overall against Suzuki RG250 Gamma on 86/100. On the road: 73–73. As classics: 90–98. Overall result: Suzuki RG250 Gamma.
Suzuki RG250 Gamma
86/100 Overall
73 On the road98 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki KR-1 | Suzuki RG250 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki KR-1 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki KR-1 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki RG250 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 5 | 6 | Suzuki RG250 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Suzuki RG250 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 10 | Suzuki RG250 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Kawasaki KR-1 if…
you want a rare, very fast lightweight two-stroke with sharp handling and unmistakable late-1980s attitude.
Choose the Suzuki RG250 if…
you want a landmark lightweight race-replica with vivid two-stroke performance and major 1980s significance.
Background
History
Kawasaki KR-1
The Kawasaki KR-1 was produced from 1988–1989 and used a 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for handling, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki RG250
The Suzuki RG250 Gamma was produced from 1983–1987 and used a 247cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Kawasaki KR-1
- Its production span in this library runs from 1988 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are handling, character, styling.
Suzuki RG250
- Its production span in this library runs from 1983 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 247cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, character.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Kawasaki KR-1
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KR-1. Its library score for handling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki RG250
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki RG250 Gamma. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Kawasaki KR-1
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Suzuki RG250
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Kawasaki KR-1
Rivals to the Suzuki RG250
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Suzuki RG250 Gamma wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Suzuki RG250 Gamma takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.