Yamaha XT500 1981 DUAL PURPOSE USA information

It is fair to say this machine started a rich XT heritage for reliable four stroke enduro machines. It was light and blessed with enough performance to bring a smile to anyone’s face who rode or owned one. It was handsome and capable, both off road and on road, where it handled a lot better than many purpose built tarmac machines, and it’s mid range punch could embarrass many a 400cc sports road bike of that period.
It did have problems that are now easily remedied, namely the ignition not supplying a strong enough spark, making hot starting a hit or miss affair.
Highly coveted by collectors, machines in top condition change hands for surprisingly large amounts, making restoration economical sense.

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