Only 47km recorded (believed from new), 1981 Yamaha XT500

"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 bulletproof 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. Production ceased in 1989. Today the XT500 enjoys a cult following and original early models are highly prized.

This XT500 was purchased by the current private vendor from the second private owner in 2017 when it was imported into the UK. Stored as part of the private vendor's collection since acquisition, this XT500 was originally delivered to Hatfield Yamaha in South Africa. The machine was kept on display for many years until the previous owner's uncle purchased it; he rode it for only a couple of kilometres, after which it was stored within his house as a 'work of art' and not ridden.

A few years later, the previous owner purchased the XT500 from his uncle. The machine still displayed 2km on the clock and he decided to ride it, clocking up some 40 kilometres. Afterwards the Yamaha was sold to our private vendor and has not been used since, although it has been started up and serviced. The most recent service was carried out on 6th March 2026 at 46km when the carburettor and fuel tap were cleaned and a new battery fitted (invoice on file). (It should be noted that the original carburettor jets have been swapped for those suitable for use in the UK). Last run earlier this year, the machine is offered with a South African Registration Certificate (2001); a considerable quantity of import paperwork; and an email from the previous owner to the current vendor detailing its history.
Offered with key