Yamaha RD500LC
84/100 Overall
68 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha RD500LC vs Yamaha SR500
Yamaha RD500LC scores 84/100 overall against Yamaha SR500 on 78/100. On the road: 68–73. As classics: 100–83. Overall result: Yamaha RD500LC.
Yamaha SR500
78/100 Overall
73 On the road83 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD500LC | Yamaha SR500 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 6 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 8 | Yamaha SR500 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 9 | Yamaha SR500 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | Yamaha SR500 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 8 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 8 | 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 Yamaha SR500 if…
you want simple engineering, traditional single-cylinder character and an agile motorcycle that is easy to understand.
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.
Yamaha SR500
The Yamaha SR500 was produced from 1978–1989 and used a 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, character, styling. 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.
Yamaha SR500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1978 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, character, styling.
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.
Yamaha SR500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha SR500. Its library score for ownership appeal 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.
Yamaha SR500
- 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 Yamaha RD500LC
Rivals to the Yamaha SR500
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha SR500 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.