Description
Additional photos of this 1966 Yamaha YG1 are available here for your perusal.
Yamaha first found success amongst the American market back in 1963 when it debuted the YG1. Billed as an “executive” motorcycle in Japan, the bike featured some then-state-of-the-art innovations like a backbone-type pressed-steel frame, a set of water-resistant drum brakes, and a megaphone muffler.
And the YG1 was more than a marketing exercise; it was also an incredibly practical motorcycle. Yamaha engineered it for easy servicing, designing the air cleaner, the carburetor, and the clutch adjustment such that they were all convenient to access and friendly for maintenance. The oil ratio was specified at 20:1, and riders mixed it themselves.
At the heart of the YG1, Yamaha mounted a 74cc single cylinder, air-cooled, rotary valve two-stroke engine. In combination with a four-speed manual transmission, it could take riders to a top speed of ~50mph (depending on the wind) whilst getting an impressive 170mpg. Though it boasted a mere 6.5hp, total weight for the thing came in at just under 155lbs. With a set of knobby tires and a bolt-on skidplate, it made for the perfect ligthweight trail ripper.
This example is VIN: Y285919.
There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
Modifications:
This YG1 appears to be stock.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on tires that have aged out.
The sale includes one key.
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Yamaha is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any YG1 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
