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
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
