Motorcycle specifications Yamaha RD 500 LC 1985 Yamaha showcases its technological expertise

presentation of the RD 500 LC 1985

In 1984, Yamaha was recovering from a difficult period, but on the strength of the extraordinary success of its RD/LC350, the brand decided to go all out and take its racing image even further with the RD 500 LC, a stunning replica of Kenny Roberts' world-champion bike.

an exception

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the 500 RD/LC promises to be the most sophisticated production sports machine ever built. Modelled on racing machines, its engine is a veritable "gas factory", with a V-twin crankshaft, liquid cooling, rotary exhaust valves and looks to make Grand Prix enthusiasts swoon. Although it's a far cry from the brutality of the old three-cylinder Kawasaki, the engine only really gets going at 6,500 rpm. With a remarkable power-to-weight ratio (221 kg when fully loaded), the RD/LC 500 makes a mockery of many a 750 Sport, and the performance is there: 87 bhp, over 220 km/h and 12.2 s at 400 m from a standing start. The chassis, on the other hand, had a little trouble keeping up, and Yamaha's first aluminum frame, reserved for Japan, was rejected by Europe, which had to make do with steel tubing, cheaper but much stiffer.

kenny Roberts almost replica

for reasons of cost and space, the engine design was ultimately quite different from that of the world champion bike. The rotating-disc intake system was not adopted, and lack of space led to the definition of a curious intake system, with valves in the crankcase for the lower cylinders and valves directly in the cylinders for the upper block.

François-Marie Dumas - Image credits: Yamaha

Published on 9/6/21
by Greg

Greg is the founder of Motoplanete—a website created in 2001 to share his passion with his friends and showcase as many motorcycle models as possible to his readers. Self-taught and a jack-of-all-trades, his discovery of the world of motorcycles led him to work as a photographer, rider, team manager, web developer, graphic designer, editorial assistant, and editor-in-chief.

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Key facts Yamaha RD 500 LC (1985) : What you need to know before you buy

Prices

	Basic version
France	6,400€

Bikers' reviews

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Model sold in 1984 1985 1986

Replace RD 500 LC 1984

RD 500 LC 1984

Replaced by

RD 500 LC 1986

Performance

• Max speed : approximately 230 km/h (142.90 mph)

Essentials

Motorcyle equipment adapted for all members of the family and security elements.

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Competitors

Suzuki RG 500 GAMMA 1985

Honda NS 400 R 1985

Find others Sport of 1985

FAQ Your frequently asked questions about the RD 500 LC 1985

What is the power of the RD 500 LC?

The RD 500 LC 1985 develops a power of 82.50 ch (81.40 hp)

What is the torque of the RD 500 LC?

The maximum torque of the RD 500 LC 1985 is 6.80 mkg to 8,500 rpm.

What is the maximum speed of the RD 500 LC?

The RD 500 LC 1985 is capable of reaching a top speed of approximately 230 km/h (142.90 mph) on the track.

What is the weight of the RD 500 LC?

The RD 500 LC 1985 has a a dry weight of 177 kg (390 lb), a weight when fully loaded of 221 kg (487 lb).

QWhat is the seat height of the RD 500 LC?

To ensure good accessibility, the RD 500 LC 1985 offers a minimum seat height of 780 mm (30.71 in).

What is the price of the RD 500 LC?

The price of the RD 500 LC 1985 is 6,400€ in France

What size tires should I put on my RD 500 LC?

The standard size for a RD 500 LC 1985 is 120 / 80 - 16 for the front, and 130 / 80 - 18 for the rear.