LOT 459

1974 Yamaha SC 500 Moto-crosser Registration no. not registered Frame no. 363-024144 Engine no. 363-024144

Sold for £6,900 inc. premium

Lot 459

1974 Yamaha SC 500 Moto-crosser

The Spring Stafford Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|22 April 2023, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1974 Yamaha SC 500 Moto-crosser
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 363-024144
Engine no. 363-024144

Launched in 1973, the SC 500 was Yamaha's first attempted at an 'Open Class' 500cc moto-crosser. A very powerful machine, deemed unwieldy at the time, it was tough to tame. Weighing over 240lb, and with an unbalanced chassis, it was constantly in wheelie mode. Control was made all the more challenging by the 498cc air cooled, reed-valve, two-stroke single, which had 40 horsepower on tap, all of which was delivered in the middle of the rev range as an 'explosion' of seismic proportions. Out of the box, the motor was notoriously hard to start and jet, and one wag suggested that Yamaha offer replacement pistons in packs of six!

Such was their reputation, SC 500s were soon discarded by racers mindful of their own mortality, and few are left today. Even fewer have been restored, and even fewer still to the condition of this superb example. Despite its shortcomings, the handsome SC 500 represented an important stage in the development of Yamaha's moto-cross family and deserves a place in any collection of historic off-road competition motorcycles.

This example was purchased by the immediately preceding owner at Bonhams' Las Vegas auction in January 2015 (Lot 221), while the current vendor was its purchaser at our Alexandra Palace sale in September 2018 (Lot 37). Since acquisition the machine has been kept in a temperature-controlled environment. Recommissioning will be required before use (if you dare). Offered with sundry restoration invoices.

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Additional information

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