Yamaha Sr500
The Yamaha SR500 was introduced in 1978 as a large-displacement single-cylinder four-stroke, drawing inspiration from the classic British thumper tradition and sharing its engine architecture with the XT500 dual-sport. It became iconic for its minimalist design, kickstart-only operation, and the pure riding experience it offered, gaining a cult following particularly in Europe and Japan. Production continued until 1999, and its legacy lives on through the smaller SR400, which remained in production in Japan well into the 2010s.
32 hp
Power
37 Nm
Torque
174 kg
Weight
155 km/h
Top Speed
3.5 L/100km (approx. 28 km/L typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
What Buyers Should Know
Kickstart Technique Matters
The SR500's single-cylinder TT500 engine requires a specific decompression and kickstart technique to fire reliably — improper starting can flood the carb or cause kickback. Once mastered, the engine is extremely durable and straightforward to maintain.
Strong Resale Value
The SR500 (1978–1983) has become a highly sought-after vintage and cafe racer base, driving prices steadily upward. Well-maintained examples regularly sell for $4,000–$8,000+, making neglected bikes a risky buy unless priced accordingly.
Watch the Valves
Valve clearances on the SR500 need regular checking, as a tight exhaust valve is a common cause of hard starting and poor performance. Always verify recent valve adjustments and carb rebuilds before purchasing.
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Yamaha Sr500
