Photo: Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles · CC BY-SA 4.0
Norton ES2
74/100 Overall
60 On the road88 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Norton ES2 vs Yamaha XT500
Norton ES2 scores 74/100 overall against Yamaha XT500 on 80/100. On the road: 60–72. As classics: 88–88. Overall result: Yamaha XT500.
Photo: JokielGram · CC BY-SA 4.0
Yamaha XT500
80/100 Overall
72 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Norton ES2 | Yamaha XT500 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 4 | 5 | Yamaha XT500 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha XT500 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 5 | Yamaha XT500 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 9 | Yamaha XT500 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha XT500 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Norton ES2 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha XT500 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 9 | Level |
Choose the Norton ES2 if…
you want a traditional long-lived Norton single with handsome styling, steady torque and real period authenticity.
Choose the Yamaha XT500 if…
you want simple, durable all-road ability and the relaxed pulse of a landmark big single.
Background
History
Norton ES2
The Norton ES2 was produced from 1927–1964 and used a 490cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Yamaha XT500
The Yamaha XT500 was produced from 1976–1989 and used a 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, reliability, ownership appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Norton ES2
- Its production span in this library runs from 1927 to 1964.
- The recorded engine description is: 490cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, character.
Yamaha XT500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, reliability, ownership appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Norton ES2
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Norton ES2. Its library score for styling 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 XT500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha XT500. 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
Norton ES2
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- 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 XT500
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- 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 Norton ES2
Rivals to the Yamaha XT500
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha XT500 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Yamaha XT500 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.