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!!
MI
