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LOT 608 *N

1984 Yamaha RZV500R Registration no. not UK registered Frame no. 51X001212 Engine no. to be advised

Sold for £8,970 inc. premium
Lot 608*,N

1984 Yamaha RZV500R
Registration no. not UK registered Frame no. 51X001212 Engine no. to be advised

1984 Yamaha RZV500R
Registration no. not UK registered
Frame no. 51X001212
Engine no. to be advised

• Lightweight, alloy-framed model for the Japanese market
• In use up to 2004
• Extensively re-commissioned in 2018

'Before 1983 Joe Public could only imagine what top-class racing equipment might be like to ride. Then Yamaha revealed the RD500LC. Here was everything on the wish list: the water-cooled V4 engine sprouting a multipack of expansion chambers, a mirror of the twin-crank V4s campaigned by Kenny Roberts. Its screaming 88bhp motor powered a lithe 392-pound package wearing all the factory racing graphics...' - Classic & Motorcycle Mechanics.

Few motorcycles before or since have caused as much of a sensation as Yamaha's RD500LC Grand Prix Replica, and today this legendary model is one of the most sought after Japanese classics of the 1980s.

Offered here is an example of the RZV500R variant, a model designed exclusively for the Japanese home market The RZV500R features upgraded parts not found on the standard RD500LC and Australia/Canada RZ500, the most important difference being the RZV's hand-welded lightweight aluminium frame. Aluminium was also used for the handlebars, gear lever, and brake lever, these modifications adding up to a useful weight saving of some 20lb over the stock RD500LC. On the minus side, the engine was de-tuned to 64bhp to comply with Japanese legislation, although the restrictions (internal exhaust plates and carburettor jetting changes) are relatively easily reversed.

We are advised by the private vendor that this RZV was used by the previous owner up to 2004. The machine was serviced in 2018 (fresh engine oil, brake fluid, brake pads, etc). In addition, the wheels have been replaced and repainted as original, new tyres fitted, the battery renewed, and various cosmetic repairs carried out (full list available). The engine is said to start first kick and idle steadily with no abnormal noise, while the suspension is not 'baggy' and there is no rust in the fuel tank. All in all, and considering it is over 30 years old, the Yamaha appears in remarkably good condition. The machine is offered with a genuine tool kit, fuel tank lifting wire, spare key, service manual, and a parts catalogue.

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.

Should the vehicle remain in Europe, import VAT of 5% will be added to the Hammer Price and Buyer's Premium.

Saleroom notices

We are unable to locate an engine number. There is no handbook or parts catalogue with this Lot.

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

Lot symbols

*Import low rate
VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.
NNOVA declaration
If purchased by a UK resident, this machine is subject to a NOVA declaration, whilst the responsibility of submitting the NOVA rests with the Buyer to do so, Bonhams will facilitate the process by engaging an agent (SHIPPIO) to undertake the NOVA and C88 (customs) application if applicable on the Buyer's behalf. A fee of £350 + VAT to do so will be added to the Buyer's invoice.

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