Post Listing Update: The BIN price was lowered to $4,200, but that still wasn’t enough to attract any buyers. It was then relisted in an auction format and it did not meet reserve with 6 bids up to $1,276.
In the beginning of the 70’s, while Honda and Kawasaki explored 4-stroke motors and managed to break the 750cc and even 900cc barriers of displacement, Yamaha was sticking with two-stroke engines for their middleweight bikes like the RDs (250cc and 350cc). But with their new TXs models, Yam decided to create a new four-stroke middle-size bike between the RDs and the renamed TX650 (formerly known as the XS).
The Yamaha TX500 was equipped with a four-stroke parallel twin displacing 498cc. The bike benefited from great components at the time such as a 5-speed transmission, electric start, and front disc brake. Facing other bikes of the category, the TX was pretty promising. However, the engine had some issues. First, it was considered rather cold blooded as it took quite a long time to warm up. In addition, riding under 3000 rpm meant the rider was in for a rough time – Cycle Guide used the phrase “violent lurching” in a period review – which made city commuting relatively tricky. But in the end, the 456-pound bike was still well-balanced and had some good power at high rpm with reassuring handling. To get more information about the TX, please read this story on Motorcycle Classics.
The TX500 (VIN: 371-107885) presented in this article is in rather good condition showing about 10k original miles. The seller claims that all electric systems are working and that the bike is in good mechanical condition. Everything seems original, except of course, the handlebar. The gas tank has some small paint imperfections but no dents.
Find this TX500 in Salt Lake City, Utah with a BIN of $4,500 or best offer