1983 Suzuki RM500
SOLD
THIS UNIT HAS SOLD AND IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE.
Description
1983 Suzuki RM500 – Frame-Off Restoration | Works Performance Shock | DG Pipe | Museum-Quality Collector Piece
The Finest 1983 RM500 We Have Ever Seen
If you're looking at this motorcycle, you already know how rare a genuine Suzuki RM500 is. For every hundred Honda CR500s and fifty Kawasaki KX500s that pass through our hands, we might see five RM500s. Finding one is difficult. Finding one with original frame rails, matching numbers, pristine engine cases, a mint original fuel tank, and extremely low hours is nearly impossible.
What you're looking at here is essentially a brand-new 1983 Suzuki RM500 that has received a no-expense-spared, frame-off restoration by Kaplan Cycles, enhanced with period-correct works-level upgrades including a Works Performance shock, DG expansion chamber, DG silencer, Takasago XL rims, Buchanan spokes, Renthal handlebars, Magura controls, and countless restoration details that separate this motorcycle from every other RM500 currently on the market.
This RM500 came from the prestigious Jeff Hunter Collection in Missouri, a collection of low-hour big-bore two-strokes owned by a lifelong enthusiast and veteran rider. The motorcycle was exceptionally original when acquired, retaining its original brake shoes, original swingarm decals, original shock guard, original fuel tank, and factory hardware. The foundation was so pristine that restoring it to museum quality was an easy decision.
Comprehensive Engine Restoration
The engine was completely disassembled and rebuilt from the crankshaft up.
Services performed include:
-
Complete crankshaft rebuild
-
New crank bearings
-
New crank seals
-
New shifter seal
-
New kickstarter seal
-
All new engine gaskets
-
New clutch assembly
-
New countershaft sprocket
-
Cylinder bored first oversize
-
New piston
-
New piston rings
-
New wrist pin
-
New circlips
-
New top-end bearing
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
Original carburetor professionally rebuilt and tuned
-
New intake boot
-
New Twin Air filter
-
New spark plug
-
New fuel petcock
-
New fuel line
The engine cases and components were vapor honed and refinished in the original Suzuki colors. Every detail was restored to factory-new appearance, including the original bronze-plated engine mounts and re-zinc-plated factory hardware.
Works-Level Suspension
One of the highlights of this build is the genuine Works Performance rear shock.
Originally a premium racing upgrade costing nearly $1,000 in the early 1980s, the shock has been professionally rebuilt and restored with:
-
New shock bladder
-
New seals
-
New shock bushings
-
New shock head
-
New rubber mounting components
-
Restored braided stainless reservoir line
-
Re-zinc-plated shock body
The front suspension received the same level of attention:
-
New fork seals
-
New fork bushings
-
New fork springs
-
New fork boots
-
Original fork lowers powder coated in Suzuki yellow
-
Triple clamps restored and refinished
The entire chassis received new:
-
Steering head bearings
-
Swingarm bearings
-
Linkage bearings
-
Suspension bushings
Every bearing and wear component throughout the motorcycle has been replaced.
Show-Quality Chassis Restoration
The frame was stripped and professionally powder coated after careful inspection confirmed exceptionally clean original frame rails.
Highlights include:
-
Matching numbers motorcycle
-
Original frame rails in near-new condition
-
Professionally powder coated frame
-
Vapor-honed and restored hubs
-
Original swingarm retained with factory decal preserved
-
New chain slider
-
New upper and lower chain rollers
-
New hardware throughout
Over $400 was spent solely on professional zinc plating of the original hardware, resulting in a finish superior to factory specifications.
Every nut, bolt, washer, spring, bracket, axle, spacer, pin, and fastener was restored or replaced as necessary.
Wheels, Tires & Brakes
The wheel package alone represents a substantial investment.
Features include:
-
Buchanan-special-order Takasago XL rims
-
Buchanan stainless spokes
-
Restored original hubs
-
New wheel bearings
-
New rim locks
-
New tubes
-
New rim strips
-
New Dunlop Geomax MX34 tires front and rear
The RM500's legendary double-leading-shoe front brake remains intact and features the original low-hour brake shoes, a testament to the remarkably low usage this motorcycle experienced before restoration.
Rear brake components have likewise been fully restored and remain in outstanding condition.
Controls & Cockpit
The rider's area was upgraded with premium period-correct components:
-
Renthal handlebars in Suzuki blue
-
Renthal crossbar pad
-
Magura clutch perch and lever
-
Magura front brake perch and lever
-
New cables
-
New cable covers
-
ODI Ruffian grips
-
New kill switch
-
Restored original throttle assembly
Every control functions precisely as new.
Bodywork & Cosmetics
The bodywork restoration was completed to concours standards.
Features include:
-
Original Suzuki fuel tank in exceptional condition
-
New OEM Suzuki graphics
-
New front fender
-
New rear fender
-
New side panels
-
New seat foam
-
New seat cover
-
Restored airbox
-
New Twin Air graphics
-
New Twin Air filter
The original tank alone is one of the nicest examples we have encountered in over four decades of collecting, restoring, and selling vintage motocross motorcycles.
DG Exhaust System
The motorcycle is equipped with:
-
Brand-new DG expansion chamber
-
Brand-new DG silencer
The pipe received our signature factory-style finish treatment, including Scotch-Brite preparation and heat-colored welds for an authentic works-racer appearance.
Restoration Investment
This restoration represents approximately:
-
50 hours of professional shop labor
-
$7,500 in labor
-
$4,117 in parts and restoration services
Total documented restoration investment exceeds:
$11,617
This figure does not include acquisition costs, transportation from Missouri, or the countless hours sourcing components and coordinating outside restoration services.
Collector Statement
After restoring thousands of vintage motorcycles and some of the finest big-bore two-strokes in existence, we can confidently say this is among the finest RM500s we have ever encountered.
Its originality, low-hour foundation, matching numbers, pristine frame rails, mint fuel tank, and meticulous restoration make it an exceptional collector-grade motorcycle suitable for the most discerning enthusiast, museum collection, or vintage motocross display.
Could it be raced at MX Rewind or Vintage Motocross events? Absolutely.
Would we place it in a museum? Without hesitation.
Financing & Shipping
Kaplan Cycles offers:
-
Nationwide shipping
-
International shipping assistance
-
Financing options available
-
Trade-ins considered
For additional information, photographs, videos, or shipping quotes, contact our sales team directly.
Kaplan Cycles
Rockville, Connecticut
Phone: (860) 454-7024
If you're searching for the best 1983 Suzuki RM500 available anywhere in the world today, your search may very well be over.
Good luck bidding.
God Bless America
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
Wheels
1983 Suzuki RM500 – Frame-Off Restoration | Works Performance Shock | DG Pipe | Museum-Quality Collector Piece
The Finest 1983 RM500 We Have Ever Seen
If you're looking at this motorcycle, you already know how rare a genuine Suzuki RM500 is. For every hundred Honda CR500s and fifty Kawasaki KX500s that pass through our hands, we might see five RM500s. Finding one is difficult. Finding one with original frame rails, matching numbers, pristine engine cases, a mint original fuel tank, and extremely low hours is nearly impossible.
What you're looking at here is essentially a brand-new 1983 Suzuki RM500 that has received a no-expense-spared, frame-off restoration by Kaplan Cycles, enhanced with period-correct works-level upgrades including a Works Performance shock, DG expansion chamber, DG silencer, Takasago XL rims, Buchanan spokes, Renthal handlebars, Magura controls, and countless restoration details that separate this motorcycle from every other RM500 currently on the market.
This RM500 came from the prestigious Jeff Hunter Collection in Missouri, a collection of low-hour big-bore two-strokes owned by a lifelong enthusiast and veteran rider. The motorcycle was exceptionally original when acquired, retaining its original brake shoes, original swingarm decals, original shock guard, original fuel tank, and factory hardware. The foundation was so pristine that restoring it to museum quality was an easy decision.
Comprehensive Engine Restoration
The engine was completely disassembled and rebuilt from the crankshaft up.
Services performed include:
-
Complete crankshaft rebuild
-
New crank bearings
-
New crank seals
-
New shifter seal
-
New kickstarter seal
-
All new engine gaskets
-
New clutch assembly
-
New countershaft sprocket
-
Cylinder bored first oversize
-
New piston
-
New piston rings
-
New wrist pin
-
New circlips
-
New top-end bearing
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
Original carburetor professionally rebuilt and tuned
-
New intake boot
-
New Twin Air filter
-
New spark plug
-
New fuel petcock
-
New fuel line
The engine cases and components were vapor honed and refinished in the original Suzuki colors. Every detail was restored to factory-new appearance, including the original bronze-plated engine mounts and re-zinc-plated factory hardware.
Works-Level Suspension
One of the highlights of this build is the genuine Works Performance rear shock.
Originally a premium racing upgrade costing nearly $1,000 in the early 1980s, the shock has been professionally rebuilt and restored with:
-
New shock bladder
-
New seals
-
New shock bushings
-
New shock head
-
New rubber mounting components
-
Restored braided stainless reservoir line
-
Re-zinc-plated shock body
The front suspension received the same level of attention:
-
New fork seals
-
New fork bushings
-
New fork springs
-
New fork boots
-
Original fork lowers powder coated in Suzuki yellow
-
Triple clamps restored and refinished
The entire chassis received new:
-
Steering head bearings
-
Swingarm bearings
-
Linkage bearings
-
Suspension bushings
Every bearing and wear component throughout the motorcycle has been replaced.
Show-Quality Chassis Restoration
The frame was stripped and professionally powder coated after careful inspection confirmed exceptionally clean original frame rails.
Highlights include:
-
Matching numbers motorcycle
-
Original frame rails in near-new condition
-
Professionally powder coated frame
-
Vapor-honed and restored hubs
-
Original swingarm retained with factory decal preserved
-
New chain slider
-
New upper and lower chain rollers
-
New hardware throughout
Over $400 was spent solely on professional zinc plating of the original hardware, resulting in a finish superior to factory specifications.
Every nut, bolt, washer, spring, bracket, axle, spacer, pin, and fastener was restored or replaced as necessary.
Wheels, Tires & Brakes
The wheel package alone represents a substantial investment.
Features include:
-
Buchanan-special-order Takasago XL rims
-
Buchanan stainless spokes
-
Restored original hubs
-
New wheel bearings
-
New rim locks
-
New tubes
-
New rim strips
-
New Dunlop Geomax MX34 tires front and rear
The RM500's legendary double-leading-shoe front brake remains intact and features the original low-hour brake shoes, a testament to the remarkably low usage this motorcycle experienced before restoration.
Rear brake components have likewise been fully restored and remain in outstanding condition.
Controls &
Cockpit
The rider's area was upgraded with premium period-correct components:
-
Renthal handlebars in Suzuki blue
-
Renthal crossbar pad
-
Magura clutch perch and lever
-
Magura front brake perch and lever
-
New cables
-
New cable covers
-
ODI Ruffian grips
-
New kill switch
-
Restored original throttle assembly
Every control functions precisely as new.
Bodywork & Cosmetics
The bodywork restoration was completed to concours standards.
Features include:
-
Original Suzuki fuel tank in exceptional condition
-
New OEM Suzuki graphics
-
New front fender
-
New rear fender
-
New side panels
-
New seat foam
-
New seat cover
-
Restored airbox
-
New Twin Air graphics
-
New Twin Air filter
The original tank alone is one of the nicest examples we have encountered in over four decades of collecting, restoring, and selling vintage motocross motorcycles.
DG Exhaust System
The motorcycle is equipped with:
-
Brand-new DG expansion chamber
-
Brand-new DG silencer
The pipe received our signature factory-style finish treatment, including Scotch-Brite preparation and heat-colored welds for an authentic works-racer appearance.
Restoration Investment
This restoration represents approximately:
-
50 hours of professional shop labor
-
$7,500 in labor
-
$4,117 in parts and restoration services
Total documented restoration investment exceeds:
$11,617
This figure does not include acquisition costs, transportation from Missouri, or the countless hours sourcing components and coordinating outside restoration services.
Collector Statement
After restoring thousands of vintage motorcycles and some of the finest big-bore two-strokes in existence, we can confidently say this is among the finest RM500s we have ever encountered.
Its originality, low-hour foundation, matching numbers, pristine frame rails, mint fuel tank, and meticulous restoration make it an exceptional collector-grade motorcycle suitable for the most discerning enthusiast, museum collection, or vintage motocross display.
Could it be raced at MX Rewind or Vintage Motocross events? Absolutely.
Would we place it in a museum? Without hesitation.
Financing & Shipping
Kaplan Cycles offers:
-
Nationwide shipping
-
International shipping assistance
-
Financing options available
-
Trade-ins considered
For additional information, photographs, videos, or shipping quotes, contact our sales team directly.
Kaplan Cycles
Rockville, Connecticut
Phone: (860) 454-7024
If you're searching for the best 1983 Suzuki RM500 available anywhere in the world today, your search may very well be over.
Good luck bidding.
God Bless America
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
