Additional photos of this Yamaha YZ490 are available here for your perusal.
Yamaha introduced the YZ490 in 1982 as a successor to the YZ465, though reviews from the first few years suggested it was a great engine paired with underwhelming suspension, fueling, and quality control. Things were quickly rectified with dramatic revisions to the suspension in 1983 and the motor/frame in 1984. 1985 brought the last major redesign with much improved carburetion, strong wheels, a lighter frame, better clutch, and a livery change in the US from yellow/black to red/white to match what the Europeans were getting.
1987 brought some minor updates, including a redesigned head and 43mm Kayaba Travel Control Valve forks.
It also still featured Yamaha’s Energy Induction System, the first 2-stroke “boost bottle” in the industry that they debuted back in 1980.
This example is VIN: JYA2HJ004HA001631, Engine #: 24J-001631.
It was mechanically restored by the previous owner with a new crank rod, bearings, and clutch. The cylinder was sent to LA Sleeve and re-sleeved to the stock bore.
Modifications:
FMF Gold Series Fatty exhaust.
FMF Powercore silencer.
ProTaper grips.
Tusk bar pad.
The shock was rebuilt at some point by Proline Suspension.
The metal parts show wear from riding. The seat and plastics look great with just a pair of small chips in the front number plate.
The sale includes several spare parts at the seller’s home that can be separately shipped to the auction winner.
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please schedule an appointment for a viewing), this YZ490 is offered on a clean Idaho title. Have any YZ stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the comments below!
