Posts by Category: Yamaha

Yamaha August 6, 2019 posted by Mike

Featured Listing: 1986 Yamaha SRX600

In a world obsessed with multi-cylinder madness, the Yamaha SRX was a breath of fresh air. Utilizing a XT600-derived air-cooled single cylinder power plant, the SRX series evoked simpler times of British cafe racers doing the ton. Impossibly light and narrow, the SRX was all about torque – squirting off of corners in a manner only a thumper can deliver. And the styling? The SRX stood out like a custom in a sea of mass-produced multis. Incredibly, the SRX600 lasted but a single selling season in the US before being discontinued. Finding one today that has not been neglected is not easy. Which brings us to this beautiful two-owner, low mileage example.

1986 Yamaha SRX600 for sale on eBay

Under the covers, the SRX sports a surprising amount of technology. The single cylinder breathes through four valves driven by an overhead cam. The crankcase contains a counter-balancer to quell vibration from the 96mm slug traveling through it’s stroke. Oil feed is via dry sump, minimizing the heft of the engine lower section. The alloy oil tank is tucked neatly away, contributing to the clean lines. The steel frame is minimalist, yet is cleverly integrated into the lines of the bike. The twin-shock swing arm was hardly cutting edge, but did provide a solid foundation at the rear and helped connect the styling back to the neo British design. There was some Yamaha parts bin raiding going on here too; the entire front end is lifted from the RZ350, and the switch gear is common to other Yamahas of the era. The brake disks were utilized on several bikes in the line, and the wheels have a common design element as well. Model specific tank, clip-ons and unique short-stack exhaust poking out the bottom of the right side of the bike complete the picture. Simple in looks, the SRX was a well-designed and well-engineered motorcycle that deserved much more attention than it received.

From the seller:
Very clean and original SRX Super Single. Only 3020 miles. 300 put on by me enjoying this special motorcycle. I got it from the original owner who lost interest when he got to a point in his life when he needed electric start.

When I got the motorcycle it had sat long enough that the gas and brake fluid had perished. I have rebuilt the petcock and carburetors. Brake system was flushed and the rear brake line was replaced. As far as I can tell, the rear brake line is the only non-original part.

Original tires are not dry rotted and are look great. As is all the other rubber parts. This is a very comfortable motorcycle, it is a pleasure to ride and capable of ton up speed too.

Full history starting from when is was bought new in 1989.

I have my reserve/opening bid set below the current market value. This motorcycle is for sale. It is only for sale here on eBay. I will miss this motorcycle.

The seller has included a nice video highlighting this beautiful example. Note the kick start lever; there is no electric start (but with 8.5:1 the SRX is not a chore to kick over). Enjoy the sights and sounds:

Worldwide to SRX was available in various capacities (including a home market 400 and a 250 in the US). The 600 was the most capable of the line, and offered for the shortest period of time. Today a clean SRX is a rare – and delightful – find. These are wonderful motorcycles, seamlessly melding practicality with enthusiasm and capability. It remains a unique riding experience, and is deceptively nimble in the corners. Stylistically it stands out, despite being minimalist. It is every bit a British motorcycle, but thanks to Yamaha quality it lacks one key English aspect; it doesn’t leak oil.

This particular SRX600 looks to be in fantastic shape – just check out the quality high-res picks yourself. With only two owners and barely over 3,000 miles, this just might be the nicest SRX we have seen in a number of years. The bike appears to be as original as you could ask for, right down to the tires (yes, those should be replaced if any serious riding is to be done). This eBay auction is on right now, and the opening ask is a very reasonable (cheap) $2,500. If you have been in the market for a great all-around motorcycle that doesn’t look like a NinjaBusa-RR – one that will stand out for years to come – do yourself a favor and check out this 1986 Yamaha SRX600. These are rare and unique, and this one will certainly find a new home quickly. Give it a look before it is too late, and Good Luck!!

Yamaha July 30, 2019 posted by Aaron

Featured Listing: 1976 Yamaha RD400C

If you bought a mid-size two-stroke Yamaha streetbike in 1975, you got the very, very good RD350. You also got shortchanged, because buyers who waited just a year got the 1976 Yamaha RD400C, which Cycle World lauded as the perfect motorcycle, and which carried way more improvements than a simple displacement bump.

1976 Yamaha RD400 for sale on eBay

The engine had been gone over with a fine-tooth comb, which resulted in the expected power increase, noise reduction and improved refinement at low rpm. Yamaha worked hard to keep the naturally antisocial two stroke as quiet and easy to ride as tech allowed at the time. The result was 35-ish rear wheel horsepower and a top end north of 100 mph, still impressive figures for a 400.

The chassis got a good going-over, too, with new geometry that aped Yamaha’s all-conquering grand prix bikes of the 1960s and disc brakes front and rear. All that lined up to create the 1970s answer to the RGV250s and CBR400RRs of the late 1980s and early 1990s. The sublime reviews showed Yamaha’s efforts were well spent.

This 1976 Yamaha RD400C is in fantastic restored shape, with a raft of powdercoated parts, a functioning oil injection pump and functional self-cancelling turn signals. It has been kept original with the obvious exception of modern rubber, so the experience aboard this thing will be damn close to what the guys at Cycle World felt 43 years ago.

From the seller:

For sale is a clean RD 400C for sale with a frame up restoration. Bike starts up first or second kick and very reliably. Bike is original to the finest details with original shocks and exhaust. Electronics gone through and checked. Original mileage is approximately 13027 miles. Titled and registered with California clean title in my name. Matching vin and engine numbers.

Numerous work includes:

Motor has been gone through with new seals on the crank

Powder coated frame

re-coated nuts and bolts after complete strip down

Powder coated numerous parts after strip down including swingarm

New or refurbished parts include rubber parts, seals, gaskets and replacement worn parts

New Bridgestone Bt45 tires with new bearings front and back

All electronics work even the self canceling turn signal unit

Tank is free of dents and has been resealed.

Front and rear brakes rebuilt with new master cylinders and Caliper seals brakes work flawlessly suspension is supple in working order for original equipment

new chain

Oil pump intact with rebuild and adjusted

Carbs synced and gone through with new rubber tip float needles no leaks here

This RD was painstakingly gone through to keep to original condition. Although not absolute perfect would be a perfect addition to a collector. Starts and rides brilliantly for age and is great blast from the past with that unforgettable two stroke smell. Too good looking for me to keep and ride this bike is need of a new home with someone who will appreciate its heritage.

Yamaha July 28, 2019 posted by Aaron

Featured Listing: 1990 Yamaha FZR750R OW01

Update 7.26.2019: Dave has renewed his Featured Listing for his OW01. It is now available on eBay and he also notes that spare body work is also available at additional cost (pictures added to gallery). Thanks for supporting the site, Dave, and good luck to buyers! -dc

There was a time in the late 1980s when you could wander into your local powersports dealer and, if you planned properly, walk away with a bike so close to the WSBK kit that could scarcely be ridden on the street. The 1990 Yamaha OW01 was one such bike, crafted to homologate Yamaha’s efforts to beat Honda at the World Superbike game, and released to the hands of the unwashed and under-insured with a handshake and a stiff monthly payment.

1990 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 for sale on eBay

Where Honda used its might to build the RC30 from scratch, Yamaha made its bones by lightening, strengthening and adding go bits to the FZR750. The Deltabox frame on the OW is hand-welded and unanodized, and held off the ground by a nearly full-race suspension, including an Ohlins rear shock. The bikes also had titanium connecting rods pushing two-ring pistons. The cylinders were fed by five-valve heads breathing through a rack of flatslide carbs. Exhaust was kept manageable on the street and screaming at the track with an Exup valve. The trick engine meant peaky delivery, a voracious appetite for oil and slim maintenance intervals.

This one has been kept stock, ridden mostly on the street and has covered 9,000 miles. You wouldn’t know it to look at it. From the seller:

1990 Yamaha OW01 FZR750R. 9800 miles, (15k in Kilometers). Completely stock. Arizona titled and plated. This bike has seen most of its miles on the street and a few track days early in its life. Never damaged, all original paint and body pieces. If you know bikes, you know these are extremely rare. Looking for a good home for this unicorn. Located in Sunny,Dry, Arizona for the last 27 years.

It might not have the track record of it’s rival from Honda, but the OW01 is a serious piece of kit to this day, and as RC30 values push the stratosphere, the OW is sure to be close behind.

Contact Dave with your interest by email (Realexotica1@gmail.com) or cell phone: (520)977-4541

Featured Listing: 1990 Yamaha FZR750R OW01

Yamaha July 26, 2019 posted by Donn

Summer Fizz – 1989 Yamaha FZR-400

Late July we should be focused on tall drinks with a lot of ice and a splash of seltzer, when a bargain-priced lightweight pops up. This restorable rider sponsors thoughts of a ( well air conditioned ) van trip to Georgia.

1989 Yamaha FZR-400 for sale on eBay

Yamaha had been pursuing separate F3 and 400cc road bike goals, but joined other manufacturers in the racey replica business in 1986. The .85 pint-sized inclined four fit snugly in the Deltabox alloy frame, and 60 hp arrived at a lofty 12,500 rpm. Relaxed geometry made the handling less aggressive than some of the competition, with just preload adjustable on the right side up forks and monoshock. Brakes are single piston but 298mm dual rotors, muy bueno for the expected use. 16,000 miles and 30 years down the road, the original build quality testifies for the defense.

No word on the chain of custody or originality of some parts, but the FZR appears substantially stock and quite tidy. The owner has this to say in the eBay auction:

extremely good condition and runs perfect and is surprisingly fast for a 400 – everything works and it has a manual fan switch for hot days – it has brand new shinko podium 006s , a yoshimira exhaust system that sounds great, new regulator rectifier,recent chain and sprockets, and comes with the service and owners manual – also it has the seat strap if you want to remove the solo seat cowl and the rear seat pad is there as well-there is a small crack and scuff on the left mid fairing as seen in the picture but doesn’t affect the rigidity of the fairing – would make a very competitive ahrma vintage race bike in the next gen lightweight superbike class or a fun bike to tear up the curves in the mountains –

Since RSBFS is usually attracted to nicer examples, it bears emphasizing that a real rider has its place in the garage. It can go to the track, or out in the rain, or be lent to a friend. Or become the basis for a riding restoration. This FZR appears to have had attention when needed, but hasn’t been refinished or glossed over. Some might find the ask a bit much for a generation-old midsize, but if you’re still interested the Make Offer button is lit.

-donn

Yamaha July 25, 2019 posted by Tad Diemer

Purity of Purpose: 1998 Yamaha TZ250 for Sale

Laypeople often love cars and motorcycles with gratuitous stylistic frippery: air vents leading to nowhere, extraneous “engine beautification” panels to cover up the oily bits and wiring, unnecessary surface details to break up large panels. They don’t really understand the function of all those parts, or aerodynamic styling, so if it looks right, it is right. Purists also appreciate design, but often feel that good looks are a direct result of function, that that beauty is the natural result of effective engineering. Failing that, at least functional design has an aesthetic appeal all its own. Simplicity and lightness are especially important for racers, and sometimes the shapes that result look odd until you understand why they developed the way they did. In other cases, a pursuit of purity of purpose results in shape that just looks so right, like this Yamaha TZ250.

The TZ250 wasn’t simply a TZR250 with race plastics and the lights removed. It was a pure racing machine, something privateers could buy directly from Yamaha and use to compete in Grand Prix racing. Everything on the bike is designed to help the bike make power, cheat the wind, or simplify servicing. Every component is as light as possible, and these featherweight machines are the model of elegant simplicity. Early versions were powered by a parallel-twin engine, but Yamaha switched to a v-twin in 1991, a liquid-cooled unit was basically one-half of the YZR500’s V4 and included a counterbalancer that made the engine much smoother, backed by a cassette gearbox for fast gearing changes trackside to maximize the bike’s narrow powerband.

The package was updated significantly in 1992, with subsequent changes amounting to a gradual evolution, refining and tweaking the package. The engine was updated in 1997 to allow the bike to run on unleaded fuel, as required by FIM regulations, while the 1998 version seen here introduced a sealed airbox with ram-air and oval-slide carburetors, along with revised bodywork that included the famous tapered tail.

From the original eBay listing: 1998 Yamaha TZ250 for Sale

I have a very, very nice 1998 Yamaha TZ250 4TW available. I purchased this bike in 2015 from a Southern California racer. It had been raced recently. I have done absolutely nothing to the bike, so it is still in as-raced condition. Overall its in excellent shape. The tank is flawless save for a very small dimple (about 1/8″ across). The bodywork is very good, but has a few imperfections here and there such as chips and scuffs. Normal racetrack wear. It has been stored in a heated storage facility with very low humidity here in Montana.

It has 190 miles on the top end and MCE racing crank. 2003 bodywork and airbox conversion. Includes PitBull rear stand, but no spares.

You can send your shipper here to my home in Red Lodge, Montana or I can deliver to one of several freight forwarders in Billings, Montana for attachment to a pallet.

The $14,500 Buy It Now the seller is asking for this TZ250 is a pretty good price, from what I’ve seen. It unfortunately doesn’t include any spares, which presents a headache if you’d like to use it regularly for race or trackday riding. You’ll obviously want to go through it thoroughly before using it, as it has been sitting for a couple years, but these are designed to be easily torn down and rebuilt, with crankshaft removal possible with the engine still in the frame and gearing changes to the cassette box taking only a half hour or so. Many TZs are being actively raced in AHRMA and other series, so I believe obtaining parts to keep them running isn’t prohibitively expensive, but these are a dying breed and represent the end of an era.

-tad

Yamaha July 24, 2019 posted by Aaron

Yellow Jacket: 2006 Yamaha R1 LE

To celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2006, Yamaha kicked out 500 extra-special versions of their newly-redesigned, 175 horsepower flagship bike, the R1. Normal R1s that year were on another level from earlier iterations, with frame and engine modifications that took them closer to the all-conquering YZR-M1 MotoGP bike of Valentino Rossi, but marketability dictated that they cut a few corners with parts spec. The 2006 Yamaha R1 LE fixed that.

2006 Yamaha R1 LE for sale on eBay

The most obvious nod to the marque’s racing past is the black and yellow speedblock livery that graced Kenny Roberts’ 500cc GP machines, but the changes go deeper than that. The telltale gold forklegs give away the R1 LE’s tastiest upgrade, the fully adjustable Ohlins forks. At the back, a fully-adjustable Ohlins shock kept everything in line. To keep the thing straight during high-speed braking, Yamaha fitted a slipper clutch. Gold Marchesini forged wheels rounded things out.

This 2006 Yamaha R1 LE is number 221 of the production run, and has barely been ridden in its 13 years. It is bone stock down to the stock rear fender and turn signals, but wears a fresh set of Pirelli Diablos to give the next owner peace of mind. It is as clean and immaculate as you would expect a 2,500-mile bike to be, though the new owner could probably increase that total some without worrying too much.

From the eBay listing:

Like New condition 2006 Yamaha R1 LE. #221 of 500 sold by Yamaha. Starts, runs and rides excellent needs nothing. Has new Pirelli Diablo Super Corsa SP tires. Tires were replaced due to age not wear. Bike has a clear title in our name and we will provide a new title in your name. We are an Ohio motorcycle dealer and are required to collect sales tax from Ohio buyers as well as buyers from AZ, CA, FL, IN, MA, MI and SC.
There is $15 title fee collected from all buyers. No other fees.

At $12,500 buy-it-now, this very special R1 is cheaper than the least expensive version of the current R1, though it will ask you to rely on your right wrist to control traction. If we were faced with the choice, it’s the yellow bike every time.

Yamaha July 23, 2019 posted by Aaron

Featured Listing: One-owner 1984 Yamaha RZ350

Update 8.5.2019: This bike has SOLD to an RSBFS reader. Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc

This 1984 Yamaha RZ350 wears the iconic black and yellow Kenny Roberts livery and signatures, is original aside from some airbox mods and jetting and is with its original owner. It has 15,000 miles on it, but has been used very sparing over the last few decades, and it wears only its second front tire. The rear is similar, though somewhat unsurprisingly it has had three rear tires.

Built as emissions were about to kill street two strokes in this country, the RZ350 wasn’t as simple as its earlier counterparts, with powervalves to ease the two-stroke hit and catalytic converters to calm the EPA, but it was still a deadly simple and effective package. With just 331 pounds pushed around by 50-ish horsepower and roadracer handling, there was little not to like about the bumble-bee liveried machines. Sure, there were simpler ways to go fast, but there’s a certain joy to unrefined fast.

I’m going to let the seller do most of the talking, but this bike is a fantastic example of the breed, and is worth every red cent to the right person. He certainly has come to the right place to find the next steward of this wonderful beast.

From the seller:

1984 RZ350, Kenny Roberts Edition. Original owner, 15K miles. 99% original. You won’t find many in this condition. Still has the stock exhaust with catalytic converters. Last registered in 2011. Always stored inside & under cover. Colorado motorcycle so never exposed to moisture & humidity. Have the original sales paperwork, manual and tool kit. I was the service manager at the shop I bought it from. Outside of an 82 YZ490 hold over I bought at the same time, this was the only new motorcycle I ever had. The 490 was just a cheap dirt bike but this was something special.

Only modifications I made was to remove the snorkel from the airbox and drill some holes in the top of the airbox cover, add Boyesen reeds (have the snorkel and stock reeds) and rejet.

It’s on the second front tire (which would need replaced if you’re going to ride it as it has come cracking) and the third rear tire. The second rear tire I put on was a take-off from my road race bike in the late 80’s. Unfortunately it rubbed on the chain guard, so I notched it to clear. In hindsight I wish I hadn’t done that but you can only tell if you look closely at the backside of the guard. Replace the chain guard and top cover of the filter box and it’s 100% original out side of tires, chain and battery.

Original spark plugs and grips. All hoses and rubber are original and in good shape. Paint and plastic are in good condition and still shine. Has some minor scuffs and scratches as would be expected for a rider. Worst is the scratch on the LH side of the fairing and crack at the top of the fairing on same side (from vibration).

To get this in riding condition and ready for selling, the following was done: New battery and chain. Flush out the tank – clean, just a few very minor spots of surface rust near top, Clean carbs: amazingly clean for not being ridden for almost 10 years – only minor varnish in the bottom of one which cleaned up easily. Changed oil and coolant. Clean & oil air filter – which is also original and still in good condition; not falling apart. There was evidence of mice putting some seeds up there but that is all. Changed brake fluid – rear reservoir was very clean. The front one was very dirty and had considerable moisture/crud in it. Sight window is cloudy and shows it age.

Everything works. Runs and rides well – you wouldn’t know this is a 35 year old, non-restored motorcycle. Of course despite it’s great condition, it’s still bought as is.

$8000

The asking price is absolutely in line with the provenance and condition of this machine. We’re not dealing with a Craigslist crapshoot here, and the ask reflects that.

Featured Listing: One-owner 1984 Yamaha RZ350

Yamaha July 11, 2019 posted by Mike

Featured Listing: 1991 Yamaha OW01 FZR750R Race Bike

Update 7.11.2019: We’d like to take this opportunity to thank Amatumoto Grand Prix Motorbikes for being a sponsor of RSBFS! This OW01 has an updated price of 33,000 Euros, or roughly $37,162.95 USD at today’s exchange rate. From Amatumoto, “It is an impeccably prepared motorcycle, with an excellent documented pedigree and certain to be a podium potential for historic races, AHRMA, CCS, etc. Should you have any questions about this bike or any others on our website, please don’t hesitate to contact me. My cell phone is easiest, txt or call anytime 321-604-0317, EST.” Contact Amatumoto today! -dc

This is not your ordinary RSBFS Featured Listing. This is a honest-to-god Yamaha OW01 WSBK racer. Competing successfully at the highest level of production-based motorsports, this exact bike won the Spanish Superbike championship in 1991 (and we all know how competitive the Spanish are when it comes to racing). In fantastic condition with a pile of spares, this proven racer is ready to hit the track again.

1991 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 Racer in Spain

The FZR750R should need no introduction on these pages. Developed by Yamaha specifically to compete on the World Superbike stage, the road-going OW01 was built in just enough numbers to qualify under homologation rules. That makes the model extremely rare; the OW01 is one of the top collectable models to be found on RSBFS. This example takes this rarity and kicks it up a notch with professional race-prep including top-level Ohlins suspension, Brembo binders, lightweight components such as carbon fairings and lithium battery, and race-specific items such as the massive swing arm and the radiator (which doubles as a work of art).

From the seller:
Bike in good condition and ready to race. The bike will be delivery fully revised. Engine fully revised and ready to run. Swingarm KIT, Suspensions Ohlins, Brembo brakes, Radiator KIT, Carburettors Keihin FCR 39, Carbon fairings, Litium batt and many other high components.. is a really SBK.

Extra parts included with the bike: Rear stand, Sprockets set (6), Crash set (support + footrest + levers), brake hose (1), Spring Ohlins for rear shock (1), Spark plugs, Farings, Gaskets, Clutch set, Wheels set Dymag (F+R) with discs.

For more information please contact: info@gpmotorbikes.com

Check out all of the details on their website

More from the seller:
Ex (Louis ) Carlos Maurel ( 1990 250cc European Champion )

Season: 1991 WSBK
http://www.wsb-archives.co.uk/profiles/rider-profile.php?riderID=364

He and the bike were also the Spanish SBK champion in 1991

It would be very competitive for AHMRA NextGen SBK.

For more information please contact: info@gpmotorbikes.com

Check out all of the details on their website

Look very closely at the numerous, high-quality photographs. What you will find is not a tired, clapped out racer that is out of date, but rather a spotlessly clean and well-preserved icon that took the fight to Honda, Ducati, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Bimota. And while the OW01 was not dominant in WSBK thanks to the likes of Raymond Roche & Doug Polen on Ducatis, it remains a competitive, rare and lusted-after model. This particular specimen is far and away the cleanest competition example of the breed we have seen, and is definitely worth a closer look.

Located in Spain, this fabulous FZR750R OW01 is looking for a new home – and hopefully one that involves some track time. While this is a museum quality example of a very special breed (and would be great as the centerpiece of any collection), this is a machine built to run. I could imagine no better outcome than this bike returning to the tarmac and run in anger once again. The pedigree is there, the prep is there, the spares are there – all that is missing is you. Reach out to GP Motorbikes or check out all of the details on their website. And while you’re there, don’t forget to look at some of their other offerings!