1974 Yamaha SC 500 Moto-crosser

1974 Yamaha SC 500 Moto-crosser
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 868-024144
Engine no. 868-024144
Launched in 1973, the SC 500 was Yamaha's first attempted at an 'Open Class' 500cc moto-crosser. A very powerful machine, deemed unwieldy at the time, it was tough to tame. The SC 500 weighed over 240lb, which, coupled with an unbalanced chassis, meant that it was constantly in wheelie mode. Control was made all the more challenging by the 498cc air cooled, reed-valve, two-stroke single, which had 40 horsepower on tap, all of which was delivered in the middle of the rev range as an 'explosion' of seismic proportions. Out of the box, the motor was notoriously hard to start and jet, and one wag suggested that Yamaha offer replacement pistons in packs of six! After two seasons, Yamaha changed the moto-cross world forever with the brilliant YZ 360 with its revolutionary mono-shock rear suspension – all lessons duly learned.

Such was their reputation, SC 500s were soon discarded by racers mindful of their own mortality, and few are left today. Even fewer have been restored, and even fewer still to the as-new condition of this superb example. Despite its shortcomings, the handsome SC 500 represented an important stage in the development of Yamaha's moto-cross family and deserves a place in any collection of historic off-road competition motorcycles.

This example was purchased at Bonhams' Las Vegas auction in January 2015 (Lot 221). Offered with sundry restoration invoices.