Description
1964 Suzuki M15 Sportsman (50cc)
The Machine in Detail: This is a remarkable example of the "Golden Era" of Japanese lightweight motorcycles. Known as the M15 Sportsman, this 50cc two-stroke was Suzuki's answer to the need for a stylish, "big-bike feel" commuter in the mid-1960s. It features a distinctive pressed-steel frame, a chrome-plated fuel tank with black rubber knee pads, and classic telescopic hydraulic front forks. Unlike most 50cc bikes of its era, it boasts a 4-speed manual gearbox, giving it significantly more character and performance than a standard moped.
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Honest Condition Report:
Cosmetics: This bike is in immaculate original condition. The paintwork on the red frame and the white side panels is excellent, and the chrome on the tank and exhaust remains bright and reflective. It has been pampered as part of a high-end private collection in Scotland.
Mechanicals: The engine is healthy—it kicks over smoothly with good compression. The VM15SC carburetor and the electrical system appear untouched and well-preserved.
Maintenance History: Having been part of a static collection, the bike has been stored in a dry environment to prevent the typical rust issues found in these steel-framed classics.
Work Needed / Recommissioning: Because this is a "collection bike," it has not been road-run for some time. To return it to the road, a buyer should plan for a basic recommissioning:
Fuel System: The tank should be flushed and the carburetor cleaned to ensure no "gummy" residue remains from old fuel.
Consumables: A fresh spark plug and a change of transmission oil are recommended.
Tyres: While they look excellent, classic bike tyres can harden over time. If you plan to ride rather than display, a new set of 2. 25 x 17 tyres is a cheap and wise safety upgrade.
Paperwork Status: The bike is currently sold on a Bill of Sale. As the original UK papers were lost in the previous collection, a buyer can easily obtain a "Dating Certificate" from the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club (VJMC) to apply for a fresh age-related V5C with the DVLA. To help you finalize the Suzuki listing, here is a "Why You'll Love It" description that captures the unique nostalgia and "big bike" feel of this specific classic.
Why You’re Going to Love This Machine
The "Miniature Big-Bike" Appeal: My favorite thing about the Suzuki M15 Sportsman is that it doesn't feel like a toy. While other 50cc bikes of the era were simple mopeds with pedals, Suzuki designed this as a "proper" motorcycle in miniature. It has a 4-speed manual gearbox with a real clutch, making it a fantastic, engaging ride that actually requires "rider input"—a rarity for bikes in this class.
Why I Bought It: I was drawn to this bike because of its immaculate original condition. Finding these 1960s lightweights in this state is becoming increasingly difficult. It stood out as a "jewel" in a large private collection; it wasn’t just a bike that had been tucked away, but one that had been preserved as a piece of industrial art.
What Makes It Unique:
1960s "Tech" Pioneers: This was the "cutting edge" for 1964. It was one of the first bikes to feature a neutral warning light and a lockable ignition—features that were unheard of on small bikes at the time.
The "Sportsman" Styling: The combination of the chrome-plated tank, the black rubber knee pads, and the elegant red-pressed steel frame gives it an unmistakable "Mid-Century Modern" aesthetic.
Ultra-Lightweight: At just 135 lbs (61 kg), you can literally lift it into the back of a small van or even display it in a hallway. It’s a versatile classic that doesn't demand a massive garage.
My Favourite Detail: The Chrome Fuel Tank. It’s the centerpiece of the bike. It catches the light beautifully and, combined with the red frame, represents the exact moment when the "Japanese Wave" began to dominate the world market. It looks just as good as a static display in a home or office as it does on a sunny country lane.
