1981 Yamaha XT500

Name: 1981 Yamaha XT500
Brand: Yamaha
Price: 12500 AUD
Availability: InStock

VIC • Private

CategoryTrail

Engine Size499cc 4 stroke

Odometer4,600km

Comments from the seller

1981 Yamaha XT500H – Matching Numbers, Fully Restored, Collector‑Grade Example A rare opportunity to acquire a collector‑quality 1981 Yamaha XT500H, restored to an exceptional standard and presenting as one of the finest examples of the model in Australia. This is a matching‑numbers 4T9 machine, restored comprehensively over two years with meticulous attention to originality, mechanical integrity, and period‑correct detail. The XT500 needs no introduction among collectors and admirers. The H‑model represents the final evolution of Yamaha’s most iconic thumper in Australia — leading‑axle forks, correct triple clamps, alloy tank, and the unmistakable thump that defined the big single era. This example has travelled approximately 4,000 km since restoration and has been maintained with the same care with which it was rebuilt. Restoration & Provenance The bike is straight, complete, has matching‑numbers chassis and engine. VicRoads research says it was last registered in 1987 and then disappeared from their system. From 2010–2012 it underwent a full, ground‑up restoration. Every component was inspected, refinished, replaced, recoated, repainted, replated or rebuilt. No shortcuts, no pattern‑part compromises, and no cosmetic-only work — this was a true mechanical and obsessive finish restoration. Key highlights include: • All painted components finished in PPC DTM coating • Cad‑plated hardware replaced with Yamaha NOS or restored originals (many sourced from KEDO Hamburg) • Fork stanchions re‑hard‑chromed • Wheels rebuilt by Lightfoot Wheels with heavy‑gauge stainless spokes • US Racer Boy colour‑correct gold rims, powder‑coated hubs, period brake‑wear decals • Period‑correct Metzeler Enduro tyres with Michelin tubes • Stainless steel fasteners throughout Engine & Mechanical • A complete engine rebuild was undertaken with genuine Yamaha or NOS components: • New bearings, con‑rod, Wiseco first‑oversize piston • NOS Yamaha valves, linished cam, new cam chain • All machining by Kevin Doyle nengineering • Cases refinished in PPC DTM engine enamel • Stainless fasteners throughout, assembled with copper grease The engine is beautifully sorted — warm, it will almost start by hand. Even after sitting, it fires easily and runs exactly as a well‑rebuilt XT should: crisp, torquey, and mechanically quiet. Correct Details & Finishing • Collectors will appreciate the attention to authenticity: • Original wiring loom in excellent condition • Genuine Yamaha points & condenser; original 6V electrics with sealed Motorbatt battery • Rebuilt instruments (reset to zero) • NOS switches and cables • KEDO stainless replica original exhaust in black • Original airbox and carburettor, vapour‑cleaned and clear‑coated, jetted perfectly • Ikon rear shocks; original front internals • Original replated tool kit in its correct pouch under the recovered seat • Original sales brochure to show off at club events • The alloy tank retains a small, honest original ding — a detail that reinforces authenticity rather than detracting from presentation. Summary This is not a typical XT500. It's not for leaving in the back paddock. It is a collector‑grade, matching‑numbers H‑model, restored with precision, correctness, and respect for the machine’s heritage. Suitable for the serious Yamaha collector, the discerning historic enduro enthusiast, or anyone seeking one of the best surviving XT500s in Australia. Includes personalised Vic XTH-81 licence plate. It is ready to enjoy to ride, display, or preserve.

Bike details

Network Id

SSE-AD-20209491

Bike

Dual Purpose Manual 5sp 500cc

Kilometres

4,600km

Body

Trail

Colour

Silver

Engine Capacity

499 cc

Cost of financeSponsored

Configuration

499cc, 4-stroke, Air cooled, SOHC, 1-cyl

Country of Origin

JAPAN

Roadworthy certificate

Details

Bike Type

Dual Purpose

Series

Model Code

XT500

LAMS Approved

False

Country of Origin

JAPAN

Grey Import

False

Is Limited Edition

False

Engine

Engine Description

500

Engine Config

Vertical

Engine Capacity

499cc

Engine Type

Piston

Engine Stroke

Bore

87.0mm

Stroke

84.0mm

Cam Type

SOHC (Single Over Head Cam)

Cylinders

Compression Ratio

9.0:1

Induction System

Aspirated

Carburettor(s)

Carburettor

VM32SS

Throttle Bore

32mm

Cooling

Air

Lubrication

Dry Sump

Oil Capacity

2.2L

Exhaust Config

1 Into 1

Maximum Power

23.9kW

Maximum Power RPM

6500

Maximum Speed

150km/h

Start

Ignition Description

Magneto; CB/Coil

Starter

Kick

Electrics

Engine Voltage

6Volt

Battery Description

6 Amp hour

Fuel & Emissions

Fuel Type

Petrol

Recommended RON

Fuel Tank Capacity

8.8L

Transmission

Primary Drive

Gear

Drive Type

Chain

Gear Type

Manual

Gear Number

Gear Change Method

Left foot lever

Clutch Type

Wet; Multi-disc

Chassis & Suspension

Side Stand

Yes

Skid Plate

Standard

Front Suspension

Telescopic fork; Gaiters

Rear Suspension

Twin shock absorbers

Swingarm Type

Dual Sided

Brakes

Front Brake Description

Drum

Rear Brake Description

Drum

ABS

Not Available

Linked Braking System

Not Available

Wheels & Tyres

Wheel Type

Lace-spokes

Wheel Size Front

21"

Wheel Size Rear

18"

Rear Tyre

4.00-18" 4PR

Front Tyre

3.25-21" 4PR

Dimensions & Weights

Length

2185mm

Width

875mm

Height

1165mm

Wheelbase

1415mm

Seat Height

840mm

Seating Capacity

Safety & Security

Traction Control

Not Available

Alarm

Not Available

Convenience

Seating Position

Upright

Mark is the seller

Location

Marlo, VIC 3888

Member since

2012

Verified information

Phone number

Government ID

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$12,500

Price guide

ID verified

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ø Specifications have been sourced from Automotive Data Services Pty Ltd (Redbook) and are based on manufacturer standard features and specifications, some of which may require subscription. Actual features and specifications for this vehicle may differ. Please confirm these details with the seller.

‡ This is an estimated figure calculated with reference to ADR 81/02 and is made on the assumption the vehicle is at maximum factory fuel/energy capacity. It does not take into account factors such as individual driving habits, terrains and driving conditions which may vary depending on the driver and the vehicle.

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