The RZ was introduced in 1984 and was arguably the first production race replica. Built to emulate Kenny Roberts’ YZR500 factory racer, the RZ500 was the closest thing two-stroke enthusiasts had to a GP competitor for the road… as long as you didn’t live in the United States of America. Emissions rules put in place by the EPA prevented Yamaha from selling the RZ500 in the US, so the select few we get to enjoy had to be imported (typically from Canada). But the RZV is extra special, as it was a bike for the Japanese market that had some distinct changes.
This bodywork is believed to either be a tribute made from actual race molds, or possibly could be authentic bodywork from one of Wayne Rainey’s race bikes. However we cannot authenticate.
Per the seller: “I had a few people look at it, some of them very much in the GP scene, they felt it to be real. It’s a mix of composite. I did manage to find a video of Wayne Rainy taking the body off his 1990 YZR500. In the video Wayne explained that the little fins in the bottom of the belly pan are to deflect water away from the rear tire. This body work has the fins.”
“The paint work on the body, despite the fading, is exceptional smooth. The pin stripe lines and the Marlboro decals & Team Roberts are painted under the clear coat. Also looking at the mounting holes of the body is the same as the GP machine.”
The seller acquired this bodywork from a Yamaha dealership that went out of business. The seller states “I’d like to see it reunited with a collector that has an RZV500 and or Swantz Suzuki RGV500. I did not receive the front fender and I am not sure if it was with the set. I am trying to locate it. If I find it during or after the auction it will be included.”
Cosmetic Blemishes: The seller states: “It show some years of handling – some sun fading and chips where it had be sitting or moved. It’s 35 years old. Shows some signs of age. Carbon Kevlar structure is perfect though.” Please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Coquitlam, BC, this Yamaha bodywork is offered on a Bill of Sale only.
Have any RZV500R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
