Highlights

Early example, US specification
Extensive restoration
Just 8 miles covered since completion
Rebored to 600cc with a new Mahle piston
5-speed transmission

The Appeal

Spawning a whole raft of large-capacity adventure tourers over the last few decades, the XT500 was something of an era-defining machine, despite its apparently simple mechanicals and aesthetic.

This early ‘1E6’ example – which means it is a US specification bike – has been lovingly and carefully restored by its current owner. The result is this gorgeous, deceptively simple and immaculately finished machine. The vendor has made some choice and clever upgrades, making this something of a ‘restomod’.

With just eight miles on the clock since the restoration was completed, this is realistically as close as you’ll find to a new XT500. Which makes it something very special indeed.

The History and Paperwork

First registered in 1976 in the US
Purchased by the vendor in August 2011
Comprehensively restored
Now presented with reset odometer showing just eight miles

The Condition

Smart black bodywork with chrome and stainless accents – it should be noted that this is, in effect a new bike, so everything presents in “as new” or “nearly new” condition
Frame plate serial numbers, engine numbers, papers are matching
It should be noted that the original frame was in poor condition with some botched repairs, so the vendor has replaced it with a newer 1977 frame, which has been powder coated
The battery box, engine protection plate / bash guard, side stand and foot rests have been powder coated
New seat foam has been fitted, along with a new black vinyl cover
1976 TT500 alloy petrol tank with new OEM fuel petcock
Wherever possible, the vendor tells us that new stainless steel nuts, bolts, washers and fittings have been used
TT500 top yoke and under bracket have been bored from 36mm to 38 mm and powder coated
The front fork boots are brand new
New Tagasako Excel rims – 21” front and 18” rear – with new stainless steel spokes
New Michelin tyres front and back
Refurbished and reset 1976 odometer with stainless steel rim
We’re told that the vendor has replaced all rubber items new for old
Steel parts, like wire holders, oil hoses, cam decompressor, springs, clutch push lever etc., have been zinc plated
The kickstarter has been chromed
Overall the bike presents in exceptionally good order, almost as fresh as the day it rolled out of the dealership

The Mechanics

As with the cosmetic aspects of the bike, the mechanicals have been completely overhauled and should be considered as being in “like new” condition
TT500 brake pedal
White Power shock absorbers
New dipstick
New cables
New chain kit, with stainless steel security washers on rear hub
38mm Yamaha YZ fork with Schrader air valves
TT500 guide cable
TT500 entire brake system, from lever to brake pedal
Special washer added to use brake switch (not available on the TT500)
Yamaha YZ 490 magnesium double leading front brake shoes
TT500 rear hub and magnesium brake shoe
New stainless rear wheel axle, collar, hub dust cover
TT500 alloy swingarm complete with powder coated chain case and guard,
New wiring harness, left switch handle, right kill switch, 12v regulator, horn, battery and turn signals
Rotor and ignition coil are 12v items from a 1986/89 XT500
Bespoke stainless right end of camshaft in place of original rubber item
Bespoke stainless chain tensioner cap
Stainless performance header pipe, with stainless heat shield
Stainless exhaust heat shield
New Mikuni VM38 carburettor
New K&N air filter and breather
Reworked cylinder head
Engine rebored to 600cc with a new Mahle 94.75 mm piston
The bike has been run for just eight miles since the restoration, so the vendor notes it will need to be properly “run in” for the next 600 miles
We are assured that everything works like it should, with no faults or issues reported
Video is available showing the engine running, lights, brake lights, horn, indicators etc. all working

Summary

Beautifully finished with some key upgrades and with just eight miles on the clock, this handsome classic single-cylinder should be a joy to ride and would be the perfect machine for this season’s meets and classic shows.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.

A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.

All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.

Shipping and transfer

Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders. For more details, email auctions@carandclassic.com.