Description
Click here for an instaVIN Motorcycle History Report on this 1985 Yamaha RZ500. 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).
This example (VIN: JYA52X007FA005137) indeed came from our neighbor to the north – the seller imported it himself.
After bringing this RZ across the border, he had it titled and registered it in his home state of Oregon.
He also had it repainted 5 or 6 years ago, which is why it shows so well.
But the work did not stop there – he also had the motor rebuilt by Wilson Performance of Lee’s Summit, Missouri to the tune of $5,658.41. The list of parts and labor included new Wiseco pistons, all new gaskets/seals/bushings, new connecting rods, rebuilt crankshafts, decked cylinders, and plenty more. There are negligible miles on it since the work was done. The receipt also shows that the engine case was welded. This bike is also equipped with Lance Gamma’s supplemental petcock kit.
The bike is equipped with a set of JL pipes. The bike is being sold as is, however there is a slight chance that the seller may also have the OEM exhaust. He is willing to provide that to the next owner, however he will not be able to verify if he has the OEM exhaust until he gets back home in mid-April.
Ready to show or ride, this RZ500 is a truly Iconic Motorbike.
