Debuting in 1973, the Yamaha GT80 was the first kid for many a youngster – here’s a chance to relive your youth or get the next generation on two wheels!
The 72cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine featured reed valves and Yamaha’s Autolube oil injection system, and it was surrounded with features you might expect to see on a bigger bike – a 4-speed transmission, a kick starter that would allow the rider to start the bike in any gear, and full instrumentation/lighting for street-legality. Per a period advertisement, “this mini is built to take it. Wherever you take it.”
This example is VIN: 367-016894, Engine #: 367-016894. The seller acquired it two years ago from a friend in Hollywood, California.
During his ownership, the seller has covered 40-50 miles. There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
“I purchased the bike from a friend in Hollywood, California. It had been sitting in the back of his garage for nearly two decades before I took on the project. Over the past two years, I completed a full frame-up garage restoration, bringing this first-year GT80 back to life while keeping it true to its original character. I’ve owned the bike for a little over two years. Most of that time was spent completing the restoration, and I’ve enjoyed riding it as a pit bike at AHRMA race weekends for just over a year.
As much as I enjoy looking at it, it’s honestly become too nice for the way I use it. It’s a beautiful restoration that spends more time being admired than ridden. I’d love to see it go to someone who will either add it to their collection or continue enjoying it as the fun little rider it was built to be. This is the first year of the Yamaha GT80MX, making it a desirable model among vintage Yamaha enthusiasts. It has been thoughtfully restored from the frame up as a rider rather than a museum piece. It’s equally at home as a pit bike around the campsite, cruising the pits at AHRMA events, competing in mini vintage motocross, or displayed as part of a collection.”
Maintenance:
“The motorcycle underwent a comprehensive frame-up garage restoration over the past two years. Work performed includes:
* New crank seals and engine seals
* Carburetor rebuilt
* Top end inspected; cylinder bore was found to be in excellent condition and did not require machine work
* Cylinder head vapor blasted
* Cylinder barrel refinished
* Frame refinished
* Tank and fenders repainted with new graphics
* New fork tubes
* New rear shocks
* New spokes with polished original hubs and rims
* New seat cover
* New tires
* New grips and controls
* New front number plate
The engine was not fully rebuilt because inspection showed it was in excellent condition. It starts on the first kick, idles smoothly, and runs exceptionally well.”
Mechanical Issues:
“None that I’m aware of. The bike starts first kick, idles well, shifts properly, and runs exactly as it should. Like any vintage motorcycle, routine maintenance and occasional adjustments should be expected.”
Modifications:
“Upgraded aftermarket handlebars and controls, including throttle assembly, levers, grips, and cables.
* Webco-style serrated steel foot pegs replacing the original rubber-covered pegs.
* Factory Autolube oil injection system removed and properly blocked off; motorcycle now runs on premix only for simplicity and reliability.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Shinko tires with date codes of 0422 and 1624.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Overall, the bike presents beautifully. Since the restoration it has been ridden, so there are a handful of minor nicks and light scratches from normal use. Most of the chrome is original and has been polished, so there are minor age-related imperfections consistent with original 50-year-old chrome. It is a high-quality garage restoration meant to be ridden and enjoyed, not a concours restoration.”
Currently located in San Marcos, California, this Yamaha is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any GT80 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
