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LOT 589

1977 Yamaha XT500D Registration no. not registered Frame no. 1E6-103418 Engine no. 1E6-103418

Sold for £7,820 inc. premium
Lot 589

1977 Yamaha XT500D
Registration no. not registered Frame no. 1E6-103418 Engine no. 1E6-103418

1977 Yamaha XT500D
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 1E6-103418
Engine no. 1E6-103418

'Considering the Japanese preoccupation with technology, the appearance from the Orient of a motorcycle so traditionally British in concept as a 500cc four-stroke single seemed nothing short of amazing,' – Bill Haylock, Bike magazine.

Introduced for 1976 and sold only in the United States market at first, the Yamaha XT500 single-handedly made singles cool again thanks to its smart, functional styling and bullet proof engine. An 'adventure bike' before the term was coined, the XT was soon proving its reliability and speed in desert races in North America and the gruelling Paris-Dakar Rally. Although marketed as a dirt bike, the XT500 was equally capable as an urban commuter, its upright riding position, wide handlebars and responsive engine making an ideal combination for carving through city traffic. Dispatchers loved them. Today the XT500 enjoys a cult following and original early models are highly prized.

Wonderfully presented in the early versions' iconic white/red/black livery, this example has been restored by collector Harry Kay and is believed to have covered a mere 3,314 miles since the rebuild's completion. Decommissioned, the machine will require re-commissioning to a greater or lesser extent and thus is sold strictly as viewed. It is offered with 2017 NOVA correspondence/clearance only and is unregistered.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

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  • 28 April 2001, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
  • 27 April 2019, 09:00 - 18:00 BST

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