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MotorMonitor

Adventure

Yamaha XT 500

Compare 23 Yamaha XT 500 listings from different years and sales sites.

AIYamaha XT500 side view

Yamaha

XT 500

Adventure · 499 cc · 33 hp

For sale now23 motorcycles
Price range
€5,040 – €10,318
Avg. mileage
23,778 km
Typical year
1979
This text was partly made with AI and may contain errors.
Market insight

What should you pay for a XT 500?

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What is a typical asking price?

Choose the model year and mileage for a price guide.

Finding comparable motorcycles…

Based on asking prices, not sale prices. Trim, condition, maintenance and warranty still matter.

Price trend+21%

Based on price data from 6 of the past 12 months.

Used prices are trending up: the typical asking price is €1,125 higher than in June 2026.

Model family

XT 500 at a glance

Quick reference values. Model year, generation and trim can differ.

Compare 2 variants

Specifications

2 variants
Displacement
499 cc
Power
33 hp · 24 kW
Torque
40 Nm
Weight
138 kg
Seat height
870 mm
Top speed
145 km/h
Production
1976 – 1989
Category
Adventure

Yamaha XT 500 for sale

23 results for Yamaha XT 500
23results for Yamaha XT 500
1977 Yamaha XT 500 - €10,990 (1/1)

Yamaha XT 500

€10,990
19778,341 km

Barbier Motorsport HavelteHavelte

Dealer website
1983 Yamaha XT 500 - €12,950 (1/1)

Yamaha XT 500

€12,950
19831,410 km

Auto en Service Van de MarsVaassen

Dealer website
1980 Yamaha XT 500 - €5,250 (1/1)

Yamaha XT 500

€5,250
19803,222 km

De KnalpotRilland

Dealer website
Comparable models

Also worth considering

Models in the same category and price range to consider alongside the XT 500.

Model years

Generations and editions

2 variants

Features and handling differ by generation. Use this overview to find the right version.

  1. Years1980–1989

    Late XT500

    Generation

    The late XT500 gained detail changes but retained the robust air-cooled single. Check kickstarter, crankcases and air-filter service after off-road use.

    499 cc · 33 hp · 1 cyl.

  2. Years1976–1979

    Eerste XT500

    Generation

    The first XT500 is the iconic 499cc air-cooled single with kickstart and simple trail equipment. Original tank, exhaust and frame matter for value.

    499 cc · 33 hp · 1 cyl.

About this model

About the Yamaha XT 500

The Yamaha XT500 is a Japanese enduro/trail motorcycle produced from 1976 to 1989 and is widely regarded as the pioneer of the modern adventure motorcycle. Its engine is a 499 cc air-cooled four-stroke single (SOHC) with a kickstarter, there is no electric start. The XT500 was the first production four-stroke enduro in its class and demonstrated the viability of a light, powerful single for combined off- and on-road use. The bike won the Dakar Rally in 1979 and 1980 with Cyril Neveu riding a near-standard machine.

Today the XT500 appeals to fans of Japanese vintage trail bikes and riders who appreciate the simplicity and character of a classic single. The kickstarter requires technique but is reliable when used correctly. The bike lends itself well to light restoration and historic use. Used-market rivals include the Honda XL500 and Suzuki DR500. Parts are limited but available through specialist suppliers.

Category
Adventure
Production
1976 – 1989
Power
33 hp
Weight
138 kg
  • Yamaha XT500 trail-motor zijaanzicht
  • Yamaha XT500 origineel 1976 in Yamaha-museum
  • Yamaha XT500E zijaanzicht
Before you buy

What to check before buying

  • Check kickstarting procedure: the XT500 requires a precise starting sequence using the decompressor; incorrect technique causes kickback and can break the lever.

  • Inspect bore and piston for wear: the large air-cooled single wears quickly if oil changes are neglected; establish when the last top-end rebuild was done.

  • Check carburettor jetting and float chamber seals; after decades, carburettor components become fragile.

  • Inspect the frame for rust and cracks at the engine mounts and side stand bracket; bikes stored outdoors are particularly vulnerable.

  • Check the wiring harness and condenser system (early models): the Bosch/Sachse ignition is reliable but susceptible to moisture after long storage.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions about the Yamaha XT 500

  1. What does a used Yamaha XT 500 cost?

    A used Yamaha XT 500 costs €6,375 on average. Most cost €5,040 to €10,318. This is based on 23 motorcycles for sale now.

  2. How many used Yamaha XT 500 are for sale?

    MotorMonitor now compares 23 used Yamaha XT 500 motorcycles from Dutch sales sites.

  3. What year and mileage does an average used Yamaha XT 500 have?

    The average used Yamaha XT 500 is from 1979 and has done about 23,778 km.

  4. How much horsepower does the Yamaha XT 500 have?

    The Yamaha XT 500 produces 32 hp (24 kW).

  5. How much does the Yamaha XT 500 weigh?

    The Yamaha XT 500 weighs about 138 kg.

  6. What is the top speed of the Yamaha XT 500?

    The top speed of the Yamaha XT 500 is around 145 km/h.

  7. What is the seat height of the Yamaha XT 500?

    The seat height of the Yamaha XT 500 is about 870 mm.