Yamaha XT500
Yamaha XT 500, This model was presented in the USA in 1975, and appeared on the old continent a year later. He was so different from what motorcyclists were fascinated with at the time that initially industry professionals did not bode for his success. It happened differently. The motorcycle was produced in 1976-89, and in France alone until 1990, 62,000 units were sold. Let's go back to the USA for a moment.
There, already in the 1960s, motorcycle riding in the field became trends. Hence, scramblers produced by European manufacturers most often went overseas. On the eve of the debut of the XT 500, American cross-country enthusiasts had a choice of either English four-stroke, or Japanese small capacity two stroke. English motorcycles, although having their charm, were already a bit outdated at that time, and the Japanese two-stroke were too "not serious". The Yamaha XT 500 was therefore the first modern, large, four-stroke enduro.
A single-cylinder engine with a capacity of 500 ccm developed 33 HP. This is less than the then 500 road bikes, but the XT 500 was much lighter than them - it weighed only 155 kg, and the engine developed its power smoothly from low revs. The motorcycle was manoeuvrable at the same time, so it not only performed off-road, but also in the city and on winding roads. The machine was characterized by unusual simplicity and this was its main advantage. The Yamaha XT 500 has gained recognition not only in the US.
In Europe, it was chosen by those who wanted to experience offroad freedom and those who wanted to stand out, because a simple single was something completely different from heavy and fast, but expensive and complicated four cylinders. The motorcycle was a bit like classic English singles, but unlike them, it did not leave oil stains and briskly got into the turn. It had a short jump character and smaller rotating masses. The popularity of the model erupted after the victories of Cyril Neveau in the Paris Dakar Rally in 1979 and 1980.
The XT 500 quickly became a favorite of motorcycle travelers. Due to its simplicity, the XT 500 endured operation even in the worst conditions and was highly reliable. In the 80s there was a spontaneous development of enduro motorcycles. They were associated with adventure, discovering exotic places. Although new constructions with more power appeared, the simple and light XT 500 remained on offer for many years and had its ardent supporters. Today he returns in the form of a well-deserved youngtimer and as a base of custom variations.