Sportbikes
1987Yamaha RD 500 LC
18 fields on record
The 1987 Yamaha RD 500 LC is a lightweight sport bike powered by a potent two-stroke V4 engine delivering 88 horsepower. Best known for its sharp handling and thrilling performance, it appeals to experienced riders seeking pure racing heritage and responsive mid-range acceleration. Its compact 216kg frame and advanced liquid-cooled technology made it a formidable competitor on both street and track.
- Capacity
- 499.0 ccm
- Engine
- V four, two-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 216.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 88.0 HP (64.7 kW) @ 9500 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built as a race-replica sport bike, it exists to deliver visceral acceleration and sharp cornering performance rather than practicality.
- Built for
- It has the temperamental, high-strung soul of a grand prix two-stroke, exploding into its power band with a raw, smoky urgency.
- Not ideal for
- This is not a good fit for beginners, commuters, or anyone seeking a smooth, low-maintenance, comfortable everyday ride.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 499.0 ccm
- Power
- 88.0 HP (64.7 kW) @ 9500 RPM
- Engine type
- V four, two-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.4074 HP/kg
- Bore x stroke
- 56.4 x 50.0 mm
- Compression
- 6.6:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 223.0 km/h (138.6 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 120/80-16
- Rear tyre
- 130/80-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1984 | 1985 | 1986 | 1987 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 22 L | 22 L | 22 L | 22 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Yamaha RD 500 LC?
The 1987 Yamaha RD 500 LC has a Capacity of 499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Yamaha RD 500 LC have?
The 1987 Yamaha RD 500 LC has a Power of 88.0 HP (64.7 kW) @ 9500 RPM.
How many gears does the Yamaha RD 500 LC have?
The 1987 Yamaha RD 500 LC has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Yamaha RD 500 LC weigh?
The 1987 Yamaha RD 500 LC has a Wet weight of 216.0 kg (476.2 pounds).
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