1974 Yamaha TX500
Yamaha released the 1974 Yamaha TX500 in 1974 with a 498cc DOHC twin powerplant making 48hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- DOHC twin
- Displacement
- 498 cc
- Cylinders
- 2
- Power
- 48 hp @ 8500 rpm
- Torque
- 40.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 73.0 × 59.6 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- 2x Mikuni carburetors
Chassis & Transmission
- Frame
- Steel double cradle
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear Suspension
- Twin shock
- Front Brake
- Single disc
- Rear Brake
- Drum
- Front Tyre
- —
- Rear Tyre
- —
- Transmission
- 5-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 170 km/h (106 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 190 kg (419 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 206 kg (454 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 800 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1400 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 13.0 L
History & Story
The 1974 1974 Yamaha TX500 was introduced by Yamaha as a standard motorcycle aimed at riders seeking standard motorcycle performance and style. Manufactured in Japan, it represented Yamaha's vision for the twin-cylinder standard motorcycle market during the 1970s.
Powering the 1974 Yamaha TX500 is a 498cc DOHC twin producing 48hp. This twin-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 2x Mikuni carburetors. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
The chassis employs a steel double cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 190 kg (419 lbs) dry, the 1974 Yamaha TX500 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1400 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1974 Yamaha TX500 achieves a claimed top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Powering the 1974 Yamaha TX500 is a 498cc DOHC twin producing 48hp. This twin-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 2x Mikuni carburetors. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
The chassis employs a steel double cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 190 kg (419 lbs) dry, the 1974 Yamaha TX500 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1400 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1974 Yamaha TX500 achieves a claimed top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Known Issues
- Charging system rotor failures on early models
- Primary chain adjustment needed
- Speedometer gear wear
Fun Facts
- The 1974 Yamaha TX500 was produced in Yamaha's Japan facilities
- The 1974 Yamaha TX500 featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Moderate
- Collector Rating
- 4/10
Resources & Parts
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