1970 Suzuki T125 Stinger

Rare, hard to find classic twin cylinder

 

I purchased this bike in June 1971. I was 16 years old and it was my first set of wheels. My neighbor had just bought a new 1971 morrow green Stinger and as I was drooling over it he mentioned that the dealer, Alsip Suzuki in Alsip IL had a used 1970 Stinger in the showroom. I got there as fast as I could to check it out. It was practically new with less than 800 miles. Here in Illinois you had to be 18 to ride anything larger than a 150cc bike. In 1971 there was nothing that could top the Stinger in looks or performance under 150cc's and I loved the Aztec Candy Gold color on this bike. It took a while to convince my Mom that I wouldn’t kill myself but she eventually gave in. (And also lend me most of the money!) Retail for a new one was $495. I was able to purchase this bike for $300 plus $15 tax. My first insurance bill was $12 with State Farm. Those were the days! My girlfriend’s brother also had a red 1969 Stinger so I was very familiar with this unique twin cylinder bike. I had it serviced by Broadway Suzuki in Joliet, IL. (Anybody remember Leo Flanders?) I sold it in the fall of 1973 for $225 as I was leaving for college and wasn’t able to bring it with me. Jump ahead to 1998 when I finally tracked it down and bought it back. I was ready for the worst but it had been stored properly and protected for years and was still in surprisingly great condition. Miles were less than 3,500 then. I did a cosmetic restoration to freshen her up to like new condition. I went a little overboard because most of the original parts were just fine and usable as they were but this was my baby and I wanted to make her as like new as possible and also avoid future headaches. Besides, I would never sell her again anyway …right?

Over the next six years I collected new parts and began the restoration in 2004. Here’s some of what I replaced:

Rims and spokes NOS. Original spokes were a bit dull looking. Rims were fine but I found two new units and thought that was the way to go.

Both tires and tubes with the original size and style tread pattern.

I replaced the speedometer and tachometer with NOS units.

All cables and fuel lines NOS.

Ignition coil assembly NOS.

Fuel shutoff gas cock NOS and specific only to this bike.

Both hand controls, switches, levers, grips and mirrors. All NOS.

Handlebars are NOS. Original “Western” style. Original bars had a small hole drilled in them … not sure why.

Front fender re-chromed. 

Fuel tank is perfect inside. Tank exterior has only a few light marks and scratches. Still has the original decals, emblems and knee rubbers. It’s in amazing condition considering the age. Way too nice to touch. It’s only original paint once. Color is Aztec Candy Gold

Original seat, foam and grab handle still look great.

Replaced the wiring harnesses with NOS to avoid problems later. Correct date coded 1970.

Has the original headlight but high beam is out.

All gauges and indicator lights work properly.

NOS turn signals

NOS tail light assembly

NOS Rectifier

Carburetors rebuilt.

Original type and style battery

Oil tank sight glass and gasket NOS.

Rubber air cleaner snorkel NOS.

Brake shoes NOS.

Replaced all frame decals with NOS.

All chrome is very good to excellent.

Original key works on-off switch and fork lock.

Runs fantastic. You can start it with one hand.

Tool kit and original owner’s manual included.

Sprocket sizes/tooth counts are factory original.

Engine has never been apart.

Has never been exposed to the elements since I got her back. Kept in a climate controlled environment since then.

I’m sure there is more to add to this list but I hope you get the picture.

 

Suzuki only made these bikes available in the U.S. in 1969, 1970 and 1971.

She has plenty of power and zips along nicely. I’ve had her pushing 70mph on a flat roadway but have had the most fun buzzing around town.

Speaking of “buzzing”… the Stinger has a one of a kind sound that roars as you open the throttle. I’ve never heard anything like it before. You can hear it coming a block away. If you’ve owned or ridden one you know what I’m talking about. If you’re new to this bike you’ll love its distinctive sound. You’ll also never forget it.

 

Since I finished her spruce up in 2004 I have put 734 miles on her clock so far. I might put a few more on before she sells. Most of them while zipping around town on antique vehicle plates and to car and bike shows. My antique plates expired in 2014 but I still sneak out for a ride now and then and will stop at a local show. It’s amazing how much attention she gets even when sitting close to $35,000+ show bikes. Everybody gravitates to her and reminisces about their first bike. I’ve really enjoyed showing her off.

 

Please ask all questions. Pay Pal deposit and Bank wire balance only. Please be aware that I require a Pay Pal deposit from winning bidder no later than 24 hours from auction end. Balance of payment by bank wire within 3 days of auction end. I will send winning bidder wiring instructions. I will hold the bike for a few weeks after receiving full payment if necessary and will gladly work with your shipper and help get her safely to you. If you have any questions about the deposit and bank wire payment please ask before bidding.

 

Please note: Headlight high beam is out. Original seat cover was pulling away under the seat base. I used clear sealer around some edges to hold it snuggly in place. It looks fine. I intended to purchase another seat base and install a reproduction seat cover and foam just to preserve the original. But it really wasn’t necessary considering the amount of time I actually sat on it.

I'm selling the bike largely because it just sits these days and it's obvious I havent even put current plates on her the past two years. Rather than put her in storage I think its best to let her go ... again.

Let me know if you need additional specific pictures/info. I included a photo of me, my dog, my first car and the Stinger taken on May 11, 1973 in Mokena, IL. The bike is available for inspection in Mokena, IL.

Thank you for looking and/or reminiscing!