In an astonishing discovery straight out of a motocross enthusiast’s dream, a genuine 1998 Suzuki RM125 factory race bike, once piloted by multi-time Arenacross champion Buddy Antunez, was recently found listed on Facebook Marketplace for a mere $1,000. The incredible story of this lost relic’s rescue and restoration is a testament to the sharp eyes and passion of the vintage racing community.

The treasure hunt began when a friend of Bobby Christman—a dedicated 1990s motocross bike collector and restorer—spotted the bike in a Houston listing. Despite being spray-painted black, key details in the grainy photos caught their expert attention: the distinctive suspension, aftermarket clamps, a Bills cone pipe, and a magnesium hub. “He knew as soon as he saw the suspension on the ’98,” Christman explained in an interview. “It had all the good stuff on it.”

Convinced it was a former factory machine, Christman’s friend made the four-hour drive, paid the asking price, and made the definitive discovery: “Bud Man” scrawled in black Sharpie under the seat. Contact with Antunez’s former mechanic, Ed, confirmed it was indeed one of Buddy’s race bikes from the 1998 season. The seller, seemingly unaware of the bike’s historic significance, had let a piece of motocross history slip away for pocket change.

Christman, who owns other restored ‘90s icons like a Splitfire Kawasaki and a ’93 Honda, immediately told his friend, “If you ever sell that thing, I’m the guy.” He wasn’t going to let the bike fall into anyone else’s hands. The friend, a Honda devotee, eventually agreed to sell, and the Antunez Suzuki passed to Christman, who is now spearheading its restoration with the help of another buddy, Rob.

The bike was remarkably complete, needing only period-correct details. It had unique parts like a factory clutch perch, a front brake master cylinder (one hand engraved with the name “Lusk” ). Bobby is now adding a proper Sunstar sprocket. Reproduction graphics have been applied, and the engine—which still bears fascinating factory markings and modifications—is being carefully refreshed to running condition.

The best part of the story is yet to come. Christman’s plan isn’t to hide the bike in a collection. Instead, he’s preparing it for his son, Bobby Jr., to race in vintage motocross events this summer, including the famed Mid-Ohio vintage meet. The ex-factory machine will once again scream down a racetrack, connecting generations through the enduring thrill of 1990s motocross.

Christman initially reached out to Rider Files seeking period photos of Antunez, which led to the uncovering of this remarkable tale. It’s a stunning reminder that legends sometimes lurk in the most unlikely places, waiting for those who know what to look for to bring them back to life. – Larry Lawrence