In the early 70’s, Japanese manufacturers were competing across the classes to have the best in each.

Suzuki had launched the T500 in 1967 but the tide was turning and customers were turning to four-strokes for their bigger road bikes. However, there was a significant penchant for two-strokes in the smaller capacities, as they often had bigger performance than their capacity suggested.

In 1966 the T20 X6 Hustler was released and it was generating a reputation for being light and quick and hitting 90mph on a good day. However, the T20 was very much a 60’s machine with dated features. Suzuki knew they needed to progress the Hustler forward to capitalise on it.

So in 1969 the Suzuki T250 Hustler was ready to go, taking all the best bits from the T20, throwing on a modern styling package and a more powerful, solid engine. The new Hustler would dominate until 1972 when it was then replaced by the GT250.

ABOUT THIS MOTORBIKE

• This Suzuki is a 1969 build. The only year they used lime green, and that style tank. Was not registered till 1970. Model is 250 Hustler.
• This T250 features an updated T20 motor; a 180 degree, piston-ported, two-stroke parallel twin, capable of 33 horsepower at 8,000rpm. Constructed with alloy heads and barrels with cast iron liners, its a robust unit that would send the most capable riders up to 90mph and perhaps a little beyond with some finesse.
• Twin 24mm Mikuni carbs deliver the fuel. It also features the Suzuki Posi Force system, an automatic oiling system which lubricates the engine, by injecting oil to all the important places. For 1970, this was updated and renamed CCI and went some way to reduce exhaust emissions by recycling excess oil.
• A six speed gearbox is navigated by a wet multi-plate clutch, with bigger gears than the T20, which meant gear changes are smoother and more reliable.
• This Hustler will pull at 4,000rpm and the six gears are very smooth to run through and it all equates to a happy cruising speed of 70mph, but with plenty of power to shoot past that mark.
• Chassis wise, Suzuki deployed a slim twin down-tube steel frame. The frame was taken off the earlier T20 but it was increased in rigidity and strength for this new model. It wasn’t dissimilar in design to the legendary Norton feather bed frame and this design wasn’t missed by reviewers or the public at the time. It was a winner and despite being lightweight, the quality of the frame led to a very stable ride at speed.
• A standard swing arm with twin shocks and 38mm front forks make up the suspension on the T250.
• Drum brakes equip the Hustler and they do the job well.

These bikes sparked happiness in riders, and are overall a great looking motorcycle with a performance to match.

The Hustler was a blast at the time and one in good condition to ride today will be sure to put a smile on your face.

T250’s are harder to find than the later GT250 models. Prices vary from NZD7K to NZd16K. This boils largely down to the condition the bike is in and with museum worthy collector pieces being low mileage, original bikes and good quality restorations sit at the high end of the scale.

Its a super funky design, that many manufacturers are trying to replicate now with their modern retro series - and as the old adage goes - original is always better.

Will be sold WOF'd and Registered if sold in New Zealand.

TRANSPORT / WORLDWIDE SHIPPING CAN BE ORGANISED ON THIS VEHICLE ON BUYER'S BEHALF AT BUYERS COST.

Viewing is STRICTLY BY PRIOR APPOINTMENT only.