1985 Yamaha RD 500LC

Vendor supplied images

Highlights

Low mileage example
Impressive history file
Matching numbers example
Impressively original

The Appeal

The first of its kind, and to this day remains a breed of machine unlikely to ever be seen again with very few bed fellows to share garage space with. Even with a quarter century behind it, the RD 500 remains at the top of many peoples wish lists providing a riding experience that only few can match, even if it did have a third more weight and a fraction of the power from a real GP racer, it remained more than enough for public road use. In terms of character and styling, this may well be the closest you’ll get to riding the real deal without having to sell a kidney or two.

This example has been lovingly cared for at the hands of an enthusiast, covering just a mere 500-ish miles in his long ten-year ownership. Taken on short distance trips every year to ensure the bike remains in tip-top working condition and regularly MOT’d seeing that the bike gets whatever it requires, with all four carburetors removed, overhauled and synchronised just last October.

The History and Paperwork

UK supplied example
First registered on the 6th of April 1985
V5 present and correct in the current keepers name
Matching frame and engine numbers example
Owned by the current keeper for the last 10 years
27 MOT certificates present with the motorbike indicate the bike was mostly used before 2003
Ample receipts and invoices for work carried out under the current and previous keepers

The Condition

Presented in handsome original condition with black, red and silver livery
Standard trim with all fairings in lovely shape with only a few repaired cracks (very minor)
Screen in good condition with no cracks or heavy marring
Seat looks to be in great shape with only light signs of use as to be expected for its age
Both wheels appear in good condition with black paintwork and no damage to be seen
Clock gauges all remain functional, showing the low mileage at 14,725 miles
All lights remain functional and are free from damage or fading
Hand grips show no signs of wear or degradation
Framework all looks to be exceptionally kept

The Mechanics

499cc liquid-cooled 4-cylinder 2-stroke engine reported to be in great health with a lively top end
Twin-crank 50-degree V4 configuration
6-speed wet clutch manual transmission reported to remain in wonderful working order
Chain driven rear wheel
Claimed peak horsepower of 87hp @ 9500RPM
Twin 270mm disc brakes up front with 2-piston calipers
270mm single disc on the rear with a 2-piston caliper
Goodridge brake hoses only on the front
Anti-dive front forks and rising rate monoshock rear
Recently serviced and synchronised 26mm Mikuni carburettors

BEFORE YOU BUY

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