 | |
| Manufacturer | Suzuki |
|---|---|
| Production | 1974–1976 |
| Engine | 497 cc (30.3 cu in) Wankel rotary |
| Wheelbase | 1,500 mm (59 in) |
| Dimensions | L 2,210 mm (87 in) W 870 mm (34 in) |
| Weight | 507 lb (230 kg) (dry) 573 lb (260 kg) (wet) |
| Fuel capacity | 17 l (4.5 US gal) |
Suzuki's RE5 was one example of the very few Wankel engine motorcycles that were produced. Some of the others were by DKW and Norton Motorcycle Company, e.g. the Norton Interpol 2, Norton Classic, Norton Commander). It was manufactured by the Suzuki Motor Company from 1974 and withdrawn during 1977. Rotary engines produce high power figures from relatively small displacements. All four major Japanese manufacturers had prototypes or plans. Yamaha showed their Rotary at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1972 (the twin rotor RZ-201). Kawasaki tested a prototype as, allegedly, did Honda. Norton and DKW also marketed rotaries along with a small run by Van Veen (this company used a derivative of NSU/Audi engines developed for Citroën).
