Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 24th March from 1pm
Auction: Wed 25th March from 10am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
Registration No: NMA 536TFrame No: 2F0168404MOT: Exempt
Superb custom street tracker build completed c. 2020
Painted as a tribute to Yamaha racer Kenny Roberts
Not used since 2020 and fully deserves to be shown
Produced from 1969 to 1985, the Yamaha XS650 was a very long-lived machine, and it’s not hard to see why. Classic Bike Hub summed it up when it said the XS650 is “what many still consider to be the best all-round Japanese classic there is.” Or, as British importer Tony Hall put it, “They’re just like an old Triumph twin, except you don’t have to push them home!” The 654cc SOHC parallel twin (Yamaha’s first four-stroke) certainly was most obliging, and well-matched with a five-speed transmission and front and rear disc brakes. It was said to be capable of producing 54bhp and reaching 105mph.
Little is known about the history of this 1979 XS650, but it appears to have been imported, having been registered with the DVLA in 2020. It is thought that it was then restored and refashioned in this most attractive street tracker style, borrowing the famous livery of flat-track racer Kenny Roberts, before entering the present ownership in 2021. Although not taxed for the road since 2020, it was MOT’d with no advisories in 2021 and 2023. Now requiring light recommissioning, this unique and well-crafted machine will make a fantastic addition to custom bike shows. It is supplied with the current V5C.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people)
