In the world of motorcycles, the Suzuki GN250 used to be a dream for Vietnamese riders in the 90s. Its strong and macho design, featuring a prominent fuel tank in front of the rider and a powerful engine, created an attractive image for the Suzuki GN250. It stood out from the classic and romantic appearance of Honda Cub or Vespa.
Not many people anticipated that there would be a motorcycle that could perfectly combine strength and elegance, as if they were two separate worlds. However, Naoki Sakai, a Japanese designer, was able to create this harmonious “2 in 1” masterpiece.
Sakai is also the mastermind behind some classic Nissan models in the late 80s and early 90s. After working on Nissan cars and Olympus cameras, the Suzuki SW-1 became his first venture into the motorcycle industry.
The Suzuki SW-1, despite being a Japanese motorcycle, boasts a classic look that deceives many.
The Suzuki SW-1 garnered the Design Award of the Year upon its introduction in 1992. Its soft outer shell showcases numerous alluring curves, making first-time viewers mistake it for an Italian vehicle with iconic design elements similar to Vespa or Lambretta. Beneath its exterior, it is equipped with a GN250 engine featuring a single-cylinder, SOHC 2-valve, 4-stroke configuration, providing a maximum power of 20 horsepower and a torque of 21Nm.
 The Suzuki SW-1 possesses touring motorcycle-like features, including multiple storage compartments. |
 The motorcycle showcases an abundance of curves and a soft look, standing in stark contrast to the masculine Suzuki GN250. |
In addition to its classical and distinct design, the Suzuki SW-1 embodies a spirit of freedom for avid travelers. Its shape resembles a plow bee, and the motorcycle comes with two notable details. The front fuel tank is actually a storage compartment, while the actual fuel tank has been relocated under the seat. The two side panels at the rear can be expanded to reveal a pair of storage compartments. All of these features create an image of a picnic, wherever the motorcycle takes you.
Inspired by its captivating design, Nguyen Nam, the owner of a café in Hanoi and a collector of vintage Vespas, was compelled to possess a Suzuki SW-1 after first laying eyes on a picture of it 6 years ago.
 Nguyen Nam with his rare Suzuki SW-1 |
When sharing his story with VietNamNet, Mr. Nam mentioned that after experiencing love at first sight, he extensively searched for information about the motorcycle online and saved nearly every picture of the Suzuki SW-1.
“In 2018, I came across a listing for the motorcycle on an auction website by chance. Without any hesitation, I immediately sought out a way to purchase it and eventually succeeded,” Mr. Nam reminisced.
 Every detail of the motorcycle, from the paint to the chrome parts, remains in pristine condition. |
 The Suzuki SW-1 was only produced in 200 units for the Japanese market, making it a valuable collector’s item. |
According to Mr. Nam, the condition of the Suzuki SW-1 was nearly perfect when he brought it to Vietnam. Despite being nearly 30 years old, every intricate detail, ranging from the mirrors, front and rear turn signals, headlights, handlebars, and leather seat to the paint job, remained intact.
Today, the vintage Suzuki SW-1 is valued at around 80 million VND (3,400 USD) and serves as a source of captivating nostalgic images in Hanoi, beautifully captured by Mr. Nam for himself and his friends.
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