Additional photos of this 1980 Yamaha GT80 are available here for your perusal.
Last summer, the seller of this Yamaha GT80 – what he calls “the bike America learned to ride on“- turned it into a “restomod as a COVID project.” We’ll let him take the story from here:
“It had been abandoned and left for dead in a neighbors garden. What started as a simple challenge to get a discarded motorcycle running turned into a passion project and many new parts were bought. Where the part could be restored it was, but many of the other parts were painstakingly sourced and replaced. Aesthetically, the bike pays homage to both the cafe racer genre and the successful Yamaha motocrossers of the 1980s with its enhanced graphics.”
“The motor has new crank seals, small end bearing and a 48mm (2 os) Wiseco race piston mated to a professionally bored cylinder. Ports were also modified to optimize performance.”
“While the jetting remains stock, a performance UNI air filter is fitted. The bike could benefit from some minor jetting to make it perfect. Though it is currently working and rideable, the clutch is likely going to need to be replaced in the not too distant future.”
“The frame has been repainted, has new steering head bearings fitted and all new electronics added (CDI, coil, wiring harness, cut off switch, etc). The tank has been treated with Sea Foam, has new rubber mounts and has a new petcock fitted. The bike has been fitted with comfy ADV bars, new soft grips, new levers and a new throttle/cable assembly. Also new is the chain, sprockets, tires and tubes.”
“The new seat is mounted with custom brackets and features an inexpensive but cool looking brown cafe racer perch for those with ample spread.”
“I have an extensive portfolio of many photos documenting the restoration of this project and also many of the original parts (bars, airbox, etc) that will be included in the sale.”
This example is VIN: 3J8-102345, Engine #: 3J8-102345. There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
Cosmetic Blemishes:
There is some minor pitting on the forks and scratches on right engine cover.
Currently located in Westlake Village, 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!
