1958 | Suzumoped SM1
Motorized bicycle and pioneer of Japanese mopeds
The Suzumoped SM1 is a fully fledged 50 cm³ model that combines the auxiliary bicycle engine of the Mini Free that debuted in December 1954 with a stamped frame chassis. This model can be regarded as a groundbreaker for mopeds in Japan and is the forerunner of the Selped. Its 2-stroke engine generates maximum horsepower of 2 PS. The rider can switch between pedal- and engine-driven mode by operating the clutch. The fully functional suspension consists of a bottom link at the front wheel and a pivot system at the rear wheel. Initially, the Suzumoped SM1 used a V belt auxiliary pedal drive system instead of a chain.
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,840 mm |
Overall width | 640 mm | ||
Overall height | 960 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,170 mm | ||
Weight | 50 kg | ||
Engine | Engine type | 2-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | |
Engine displacement | 50 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 38.0 mm × 44.0 mm | ||
Maximum power | 1.5kW(2PS) / 4,500rpm | ||
Maximum torque | - | ||
Transmission | 1-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 24×2 | ||
Rear tire size | 24×2 |
1959 | Suzumoped SM2
Moped equipped with a chain drive and speedometer, showing a clear evolution toward a real motorcycle
The Suzumoped SM2 is the next-generation model of the SM1 that, at the time, could be ridden by people as young as fourteen years old. Costs were reduced through mass production, which was enabled by measures such as the adoption of a newly designed pressed backbone frame. The auxiliary pedal drive system was modified by replacing the original V-belt with an orthodox chain. The maximum horsepower of the air-cooled 2-stroke engine was increased from 2 to 2.2 PS, and the top speed raised from 45 to 50 km/h compared to the SM1. In the same way as the previous model, the SM2 can be ridden manually via the pedals, which are also used to start the engine. A speedometer was also added to the SM2.
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,870 mm |
Overall width | 630 mm | ||
Overall height | 940 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,170 mm | ||
Weight | 53 kg | ||
Engine | Engine type | 2-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | |
Engine displacement | 50 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 38.0 mm × 44.0 mm | ||
Maximum power | 1.6kW(2.2PS) / 5,000rpm | ||
Maximum torque | - | ||
Transmission | 1-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 24×2-2P | ||
Rear tire size | 24×2-4P |
1960 | Selped MA
True motorcycle equipped with high-performance engine and 4-speed transmission
The Selped MA is a fully fledged motorcycle powered solely by an engine without the pedals of the Suzumoped. Its low-slung so-called “middle bone” frame was designed to be easy-to-ride even by beginners. This model also features a suspension with fully functional dampers that realize superb ride comfort even on rough roads. The 2-stroke 1-cylinder engine is equipped with a starter motor and generates maximum horsepower of 4 PS. The engine is paired with a 4-speed transmission. Later, this engine was adopted on a 50 cm³ racing model that went on to take first place at the Isle of Man TT Races.
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,760 mm |
Overall width | 605 mm | ||
Overall height | 895 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,150 mm | ||
Weight | 58 kg | ||
Engine | Engine type | 2-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | |
Engine displacement | 50 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 41.0 mm × 38.0 mm | ||
Maximum power | 2.9kW(4PS) / 8,000rpm | ||
Maximum torque | 3.7N-m / 7,000rpm | ||
Transmission | 4-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 2.25-17-4PR | ||
Rear tire size | 2.25-17-4PR |
1962 | Selped ME
Easy-to-ride 50 cm³ model equipped with Japan’s first electromagnetic clutch
The Selped ME was developed focusing on smooth and rider-friendly performance. It features Suzuki’s unique electromagnetic clutch, which was the first application of this type of clutch on a motorcycle in Japan. This mechanism eliminates manual mechanical clutch operations, which many inexperienced riders found complicated and troublesome, while also enabling shock-free starts, acceleration, and gear changes. Combined with a suspension equipped with oil dampers, the ride of the Selped ME was comfortable and smooth.
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,760 mm |
Overall width | 595 mm | ||
Overall height | 900 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,150 mm | ||
Weight | 69 kg | ||
Engine | Engine type | 2-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | |
Engine displacement | 50 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 41.0 mm × 38.0 mm | ||
Maximum power | 2.9kW(4PS) / 8,000rpm | ||
Maximum torque | 3.7N-m / 7,000rpm | ||
Transmission | 4-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 2.25-17-4PR | ||
Rear tire size | 2.25-17-4PR |
1963 | Selped M30
Model equipped with a centrifugal clutch for economic and agile riding performance
The Selped M30 is an underbone type model and the successor to the ME. The fuel tank was moved to a position under the seat. It also features a centrifugal clutch with a new mechanism that enables the rider to change gears without disengaging the clutch. This mechanism is mounted on the counter shaft, which helps to eliminate breakdowns and the need for adjustment. This centrifugal clutch also features an internal cushioning mechanism made from special Neidhart rubber that smoothly absorbs shocks at start and during shifting. The clutch is paired with a rotary 3-speed automatic transmission. The engine was developed with the aim of realizing good fuel economy at low speeds by matching the characteristics of the centrifugal clutch. As a result, the Selped M30 achieves excellent steady state fuel economy of 95 km/L*.
* Suzuki’s internal test results. Figures may vary depending on the rider’s skill or riding conditions.
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,750 mm |
Overall width | 610 mm | ||
Overall height | 930 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,130 mm | ||
Weight | 62 kg | ||
Engine | Engine type | 2-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | |
Engine displacement | 50 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 41.0 mm × 38.0 mm | ||
Maximum power | 2.4kW(3.3PS) / 6,500rpm | ||
Maximum torque | 3.9N-m / 5,000rpm | ||
Transmission | 3-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 2.25-17-4PR | ||
Rear tire size | 2.25-17-4PR |
1966 | U50
Model fully equipped with rider-friendly mechanisms even for inexperienced riders
The U50 features an easy handling 2-stroke 1-cylinder engine equipped with Suzuki’s first rotary disc valve on a 50 cm³ model. The engine is paired with a rotary 3-speed automatic transmission designed to deliver effortless handling and easy shift changes in frequent stop-and-start riding. The transmission can be shifted from top gear to neutral with a single touch. Various mechanisms were adopted to create an easy and carefree riding experience even for beginners, such as a primary kickstarter that allows the engine to be started regardless of the gear position while the clutch is disengaged. This model also achieves excellent fuel economy of 95 km/L*. The U50 is the foundation for the Super Free, which led to the development of the Birdie.
* Suzuki’s internal test results. Figures may vary depending on the rider’s skill or riding conditions.
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,800 mm |
Overall width | 615 mm | ||
Overall height | 985 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,180 mm | ||
Weight | 72 kg | ||
Engine | Engine type | 2-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | |
Engine displacement | 47 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 38.0 mm × 42.0 mm | ||
Maximum power | 3.3kW(4.5PS) / 7,000rpm | ||
Maximum torque | 5N-m / 5,000rpm | ||
Transmission | 3-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 2.25-17-4PR | ||
Rear tire size | 2.25-17-4PR |
1969 | Super Free 50
Model with riding performance and fuel economy improved by the adoption of the first reed valve motorcycle engine
The Super Free 50 features a 2-stroke engine equipped with a reed valve for the first time on a motorcycle. Mainly adopted to increase power at low rpms, it helps to enhance launch and hill climbing performance, while also realizing superb fuel economy. This model is also equipped with Suzuki’s unique Cylinder Crank Injection (CCI) system, which reduces oil consumption and achieves excellent durability. The styling design creates a modern and agile impression with the rear fender separated from the frame and a two-tone color scheme. The beautifully curved U-shaped frame was designed to prioritize rideability.
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,815 mm |
Overall width | 650 mm | ||
Overall height | 1,030 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,180 mm | ||
Weight | 70 kg | ||
Engine | Engine type | 2-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | |
Engine displacement | 49 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 41.0 mm × 37.8 mm | ||
Maximum power | 3.3kW(4.5PS) / 7,000rpm | ||
Maximum torque | 5.1N-m / 5,000rpm | ||
Transmission | 3-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 2.25-17-4PR | ||
Rear tire size | 2.25-17-4PR |
1973 | Birdie 50
Commercial model designed for all riders
In 1969, the Super Free 50 was the first underbone type model to be equipped with a reed valve engine, resulting in greater reliability. This engine was further improved for the Birdie 50, generating higher power in the low- and mid-rpm ranges, as well as smooth and torqueful performance. Paired with a centrifugal clutch and rotary 3-speed automatic transmission, this model is simple to ride and easy to handle for inexperienced users. The models in the Birdie lineup are the first motorcycles to feature a fuel lamp that shows the gas level as standard equipment. A wide range of safety systems are also available, including brake lights activated by the front brake lever as well as by the foot brake and position lights.
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,825 mm |
Overall width | 650 mm | ||
Overall height | 1,050 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,180 mm | ||
Weight | 73 kg | ||
Engine | Engine type | 2-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | |
Engine displacement | 49 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 41.0 mm × 37.8 mm | ||
Maximum power | 3.3kW(4.5PS) / 6,000rpm | ||
Maximum torque | 5.5N-m / 5,000rpm | ||
Transmission | 3-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 2.25-17-4PR | ||
Rear tire size | 2.25-17-4PR |
1990 | RC50
Tough commercial bike with a highly-efficient cooling system
The RC50 was designed as a practical model suitable for a wide range of commercial applications, and comes with a large rear carrier and a front carrier as standard equipment. Telescopic front forks help to ensure a comfortable ride. The newly engineered 50 cm³ 2-stroke 1-cylinder engine generates maximum horsepower of 4.9 PS. This engine features an efficient jet-cooling system that directs air to the cylinder head and uses a fan to cool the cylinder, which ensures stable engine performance by preventing overheating. Combined with excellent fuel economy and a large 4.4-liter fuel tank, the RC50 is also designed for long-range riding. This model is equipped with the PECS transmission that realizes swift gear changes for comfortable and smooth riding performance.
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,875 mm |
Overall width | 650 mm | ||
Overall height | 1,010 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,175 mm | ||
Weight | 80 kg (Dry) | ||
Engine | Engine type | 2-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | |
Engine displacement | 49 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 41.0 mm × 37.4 mm | ||
Maximum power | 3.6kW(4.9PS) / 6,000rpm | ||
Maximum torque | 6.1N-m / 5,500rpm | ||
Transmission | 3-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 2.25-17-4PR | ||
Rear tire size | 2.25-17-4PR |
1995 | Birdie 50
Ideal performance for a wide range of commercial applications
This is a minor change model of the 2-stroke commercial bike that debuted under the RC50 name. Featuring revised specifications and equipment such as a bottom-link suspension with excellent loading capacity, an air cleaner box designed for poor weather, modified indicator switch position, and a brighter headlight, the Birdie 50 is ideally suited for a wide range of commercial applications. The Birdie 50 lineup consists of several variations, including a model specifically designed for newspaper delivery that features a stronger side stand, as well as larger brakes and a bigger rear tire.
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,855 mm |
Overall width | 635 mm | ||
Overall height | 1,005 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,160 mm | ||
Weight | 80 kg (Dry) | ||
Engine | Engine type | 2-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | |
Engine displacement | 49 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 41.0 mm × 37.4 mm | ||
Maximum power | 3.6kW(4.9PS) / 6,000rpm | ||
Maximum torque | 6.1N-m / 5,500rpm | ||
Transmission | 3-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 2.25-17-33L | ||
Rear tire size | 2.25-17-33L |