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XT500 turns 50

Yamaha1976
Photo: Rainmaker47/wikimedia commons

Photo: Rainmaker47/wikimedia commons

This year marks 50 years since Yamaha set the standard for the modern off-roader with the XT500. The rugged 4-stroke set the tone for a new generation of off-roaders, and Yamaha's success with the DT series 2-strokes continued after the debut of the XT500, a bike that is now highly sought after by collectors. The XT500 was produced from 1976-1981, and in 1982 its successor, the XT550, was released.

  • Technical data: Yamaha XT500, 1976 model
  • Engine: 1-cylinder 4-stroke, SOHC
  • Displacement: 499 cc
  • Compression: 9.0:1
  • Power: 32 hp at 6500 rpm.
  • No. of gears: 5
  • Front tire: 3.00 x 21
  • Rear tires: 4.00 x 18
  • Tank: 8.8 liters
  • Weight: 139 kg (dry)
  • Top speed: 161 km/h