The original K50 was released in Japan in 1967. Unlike the European versions which began in 1971 and had double seats, the Japanese version was always a “business bike” with a single seat and rear rack.

Production continued until 2000 with the simple, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine under the pressed steel frame proving popular. It went up against the Honda Super Cub in supplying demand for small, practical commuter bikes and, being a 2-stroke, as opposed to the Honda’s 4-stroke, delivered more power.

Community policing is alive and well in Japan. Dotted throughout the towns and cities and even in small villages are “kohban” – mini police stations manned by local bobbies. If you walk in one you will see a desk, some chairs and Wanted posters over the walls. Parked outside are the police vehicles which, more often than not, used to be Suzuki K50’s and K90’s, complete with large boxes on the back containing first aid kits.

Over the years there were slight variations in the design but the K50 was always marked by the red badge on the engine cover and the slightly backswept handlebars.

Throughout its 30-plus year production run there were various iterations – points ignition, 6-volt CDI, 12-volt, different exhausts etc – but Suzuki always kept it very simple with just a kick start. Compression is very light, though, so it is always an easy-starter. What we have here is a 1998 model so one of the very last iterations. Now twenty years old but looking older (styling) or younger (condition) depending on your perspective!

It is a beautifully maintained, low-mileage example ready to face the mean streets of the UK. If you’re after something small, fun and classic looking, while at the same time being a reliable runaround, this could be the bike for you.

Please get in touch to book a viewing appointment. We can send a walkaround video if distance is an issue.

This bike has been through the NOVA system. We can arrange registration and delivery. Registration is a 3-step process: obtain a dating certificate from a DVLA accredited dating officer; MOT; registration with DVLA. This costs £150.

Payment can be made through direct debit or debit/credit card. FINANCE AVAILABLE

Capacity: 50

Start: kick

Drive: chain

Gears: 3