Walkaround Video:
Cold Start Video:
Riding Video:
Back in the 1970s and early 1980s, Yamaha sold a series of step-through scooters — also known as the “Chappy” — in an effort to compete with Honda’s tiny trail bikes. The most common variants were the 50cc LB50 and the 72cc LB80, the former of which was often equipped with pedals mounted on the swingarm.
As with other bikes of this size, the Chappy was intended to be an approachable option for smaller riders looking for a way to get around town. Accordingly, it came standard with 8-inch tires, a two-stage, two-speed automatic transmission, and maintenance-friendly conveniences like oil injection.
Interestingly, the gearbox technically offered four speeds all together: two lower speeds for uphill climbing and trail riding and two higher speeds for runabout duty and on-road cruising. Though the lower end on the LB50 and LB80 were identical, the top-end differed significantly model to model — and with it, the performance. The LB50 topped out at 21mph to 23mph, while the LB80 could reach up to 35mph with enough power to pop a wheelie.
This example shows a VIN of 2U7061488 on the frame neck. The VIN sticker (and VIN on the title) state JYA2U7007CA061488. The seller acquired it six years ago from a private party.
During his ownership, the seller has covered roughly 150 miles. The odometer shows 2,298 miles.
“Bought it from a gentleman in 2020 to ride around town when we lived in the city center. We have since moved to the suburbs and given it can really only do 25-30mph (when tucked!) we’ve been using it as decoration in the house. But it’s time to let someone else enjoy it.”
Maintenance:
“I have rebuilt the petcock, changed the tires, replaced the shoes, replaced the air filter, replaced the spark plug, and rebuilt the carb.
I also added a secondary chain for the pedaling mechanism just for the hell of it, it works! Single speed takes some leg power though.”
Mechanical Issues:
“The left-side blinkers don’t work. Other than that, everything works.”
Modifications:
“It has a Polini 70cc “big bore” kit along with bigger jetting for the carb.
You could get more power out of it, but you’d need expansion chambers and I can’t get myself to do that when the factory exhaust looks as good as it does.”
25 tooth rear sprocket.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Shinko tires with date codes of 4920 and 4920.
The sale includes 1 ignition key.
Also, “it will come with the original parts, the cylinder, piston, jetting, and everything else pictured.”
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Wear that is consistent with age, though it is in spectacular shape over all. Pedals have a couple of scrapes on the plastic portion.”
Currently located in Covington, Washington, this Yamaha is offered on a clean Washington title.
Have any Chappy stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
