
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Suzuki GP100 vs Yamaha RXS100
Suzuki GP100 scores 68/100 overall against Yamaha RXS100 on 70/100. On the road: 62–65. As classics: 73–75. Overall result: Yamaha RXS100.


Photo: Graham Ó Síodhacháin · CC BY-SA 2.0
Yamaha RXS100
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Suzuki GP100 | Yamaha RXS100 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 4 | 4 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha RXS100 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | Yamaha RXS100 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha RXS100 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 8 | Level |
Choose the Suzuki GP100 if…
you want a light, willing and inexpensive two-stroke that was a familiar sight outside British schools and workplaces.
Choose the Yamaha RXS100 if…
you want a durable, uncomplicated two-stroke commuter that taught a generation how to ride and maintain a motorcycle.
Background
History
Suzuki GP100
The Suzuki GP100 was produced from 1978–1989 and used a 98cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Yamaha RXS100
The Yamaha RXS100 was produced from 1983–1989 and used a 98cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, reliability, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Suzuki GP100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1978 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 98cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, character.
Yamaha RXS100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1983 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 98cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, reliability, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Suzuki GP100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GP100. Its library score for reliability is 8/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Yamaha RXS100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RXS100. Its library score for ownership appeal is 9/10. 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
Suzuki GP100
- 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.
Yamaha RXS100
- 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 Suzuki GP100
Rivals to the Yamaha RXS100
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha RXS100 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RXS100 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RXS100 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.