Yamaha RD500LC
84/100 Overall
68 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha RD500LC vs Suzuki GT550
Yamaha RD500LC scores 84/100 overall against Suzuki GT550 on 77/100. On the road: 68–73. As classics: 100–80. Overall result: Yamaha RD500LC.
Suzuki GT550
77/100 Overall
73 On the road80 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD500LC | Suzuki GT550 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 8 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 8 | Suzuki GT550 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki GT550 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 7 | Suzuki GT550 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 8 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 7 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 8 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Yamaha RD500LC |
Choose the Yamaha RD500LC if…
you want genuine Grand Prix-inspired engineering, explosive two-stroke performance and one of Yamaha's most memorable road-going race replicas.
Choose the Suzuki GT550 if…
you want smooth two-stroke triple character, useful road manners and an appealing alternative to the better-known GT750.
Background
History
Yamaha RD500LC
The Yamaha RD500LC was produced from 1984–1986 and used a 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V4. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and historic importance. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Suzuki GT550
The Suzuki GT550 was produced from 1972–1977 and used a 543cc air-cooled two-stroke triple. 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.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha RD500LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1984 to 1986.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V4.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and historic importance.
Suzuki GT550
- Its production span in this library runs from 1972 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 543cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, reliability.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha RD500LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD500LC. Its library score for character 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.
Suzuki GT550
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GT550. 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.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Yamaha RD500LC
- 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 system, crank seals, cooling system 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.
Suzuki GT550
- 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 RD500LC
Rivals to the Suzuki GT550
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GT550 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RD500LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD500LC takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.