The Yamaha SR 500 was launched in 1978 and was effectively a street or road version of their popular XT 500. The big-bore, single cylinder 33bhp four stroke engine provided the power, now much easier to start with a piston indicator window and a compression release lever.
Imported from Japan by the current owner in 2018 it had recorded only 2,500 kms from new.
Since import the bike has undergone some sensible performance upgrades and modifications such as fitting a new Mikuni TMR36 Carb with accelerator pump, correctly jetted by Vanem and set-up with free-flowing DNA air filter.
A new exhaust has been fitted (with a wide bore header pipe) and Peyton Place silencer (the OEM exhaust is shown in the pictures but both systems are included in the sale).
New YSS shocks have been fitted together with new Hyperpro fork springs. Tyres are new Bridgestone BT45’s and it has Renthal bars, a Kedo twin oil line conversion, Motolanna stainless steel chain guard and sump guard, it has had a new seat and a new chain fitted.
The MOT expired in September 2019 and the bike is currently still on SORN. The V5 is present showing one UK current owner.
The original Japanese Registration document and import/export Certificate and paperwork are also included together with a receipt for work recently done. The bike comes with one set of keys and a Haynes Manual.Hong Kong registration.jpg261.62 KB
The Condition
The overall condition of this 30-year-old bike is very good.
The current owner stopped short of stripping the bike down to repaint the frame so that does show signs of age, as do the engine casings, wheel rims and the rear sprocket assembly. The chromed fixtures and fittings all look in good condition with little or no pitting and, with a professionally re-sprayed tank and the various new bits it has had fitted, the bike looks a nice clean example of this very handsome classic Yamaha motorcycle.
With such a low mileage the engine has been treated to a couple of oil and filter changes, new spark plug and valve clearances have been checked and adjusted.
The bike has been SORNed and garaged for the past 18 months but regularly started and run. The owner reports it starts easily and runs perfectly with no issues. This bike is ready to ride.57A852EE-32F2-4DDF-A419-3D8AF4686C10.jpeg648.12 KB
The Appeal
The very act of kick-starting a big single makes its rider feel like a true motorcyclist.
The SR 500 is pretty much regarded as being ‘bulletproof’ and offers classic cutting edge retro styling with a modern, reliable engine with good electrics.
The removal of the heavyset mudguards and side panels give this bike a fabulous ‘Restomod’ look and feel about it. Not the fastest 500cc motorcycle but one with great character and charm that will literally stand the test of time for many more years to come.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the sellers discretion.
Please see our FAQ's here and our Terms & Conditions here
