Yamaha DT50MX
73/100 Overall
62 On the road83 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha DT50MX vs Yamaha FS1-E
Yamaha DT50MX scores 73/100 overall against Yamaha FS1-E on 77/100. On the road: 62–55. As classics: 83–98. Overall result: Yamaha FS1-E.
Yamaha FS1-E
77/100 Overall
55 On the road98 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha DT50MX | Yamaha FS1-E | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 3 | 3 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha DT50MX |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 4 | Yamaha DT50MX |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha DT50MX |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 4 | Yamaha DT50MX |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha FS1-E |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 10 | Yamaha FS1-E |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 10 | Yamaha FS1-E |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha FS1-E |
Choose the Yamaha DT50MX if…
you want one of the classic 1980s trail-style learner bikes, with easy handling and huge period nostalgia.
Choose the Yamaha FS1-E if…
you want the defining British 1970s sports moped, with huge nostalgia, lively styling and an unforgettable place in learner-bike culture.
Background
History
Yamaha DT50MX
The Yamaha DT50MX was produced from 1981–1989 and used a 49cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Yamaha FS1-E
The Yamaha FS1-E was produced from 1973–1977 and used a 49cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, collector appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha DT50MX
- Its production span in this library runs from 1981 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 49cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, reliability.
Yamaha FS1-E
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 49cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, collector appeal, character.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha DT50MX
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha DT50MX. Its library score for character is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Yamaha FS1-E
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha FS1-E. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Yamaha DT50MX
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Yamaha FS1-E
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Yamaha DT50MX
Rivals to the Yamaha FS1-E
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha DT50MX wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha FS1-E wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha FS1-E takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.