Yamaha Motor Company was founded on 1 July 1955 as a spin-off from Yamaha Corporation, the company that was then called Nippon Gakki and is known for musical instruments. Its motorcycles built a name for fast, light two-strokes and, later, well-engineered four-strokes.
The milestones
- 1955, the YA-1. A 125 cc single-cylinder two-stroke, described as a copy of the German DKW RT 125. It won the 125 cc class in the Mount Fuji Ascent and swept the podium in the All Japan Autobike Endurance Road Race in its first year.
- The XS-1. Yamaha's first four-stroke motorcycle, a 650 cc four-stroke twin that equalled the British bikes of its day.
- The RD350. A performance-oriented two-stroke twin that became a popular hot-rod bike.
Yamaha has long been the second-largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world.
What to know when buying
- Two-stroke engines. RD models need the oil injection system checked, and the exhaust and reed valves in good order. A bike that has stood needs the fuel and oil lines checked. See oil and lubrication.
- The XS650. A simple vertical twin that is easy to work on, popular for café racers and customs. Many are modified, so look for originality if that is what you want. See condition grades.
- Matching numbers. Check the numbers against the registration. See frame and engine numbers.
Parts and community
Parts for popular Yamaha models are available from specialists and reproductions, and clubs help with the rest. See finding parts and clubs and federations.
