Description
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
When Yamaha debuted the RZ500 (known in some other markets as the RD500) in 1984, it 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).
Manufactured in November of 1984, this example is VIN: JYA52X009FA004328. The seller acquired the bike two years ago from a private party in Toronto. He sent it to our Iconic East facility in Bristol, Rhode Island to auction it off.
During his ownership, the seller has covered “a few hundred miles.” The odometer shows 11,017 kilometers (6,845 miles). He states that “insurance is per bike, so I select three bikes I’m going to ride in a season and the rest stay in hibernation. I’ve kept it in my office during the winter months.”
Maintenance:
The seller reports that the “original bodywork was repainted and the engine was rebuilt in 2016 at 7,210 kilometers” after which it was “freshened up in 2022 and then used for one season.”
Modifications:
“External hidden oil injection check valves to improve reliability with the oiling system.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT45 tires with date codes of 2013 and 1520.
The sale includes one key, the lower mesh grilled, a NOS solo seat cowl, a tool kit (not pictured), a fuel tank lanyard, and a reproduction owner’s manual (not pictured).
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes.
Per the seller, the bike shows “minor signs of use. The bike is not restored, the frame paint is original and is in exceptional condition. There is one small crack on the right side upper fairing bolt hole, no other cracks or scratches.”
Currently located in Santa Monica, California, this Yamaha is offered on a clean Canadian title. Have any RZ500 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
