Naked Motorcycles
1983Yamaha SR 500
20 fields on record
The 1983 Yamaha SR 500 is a lightweight classic single-cylinder motorcycle ideal for riders seeking simplicity and authentic vintage styling. Known for its nimble handling and easy-to-maintain air-cooled engine, it appeals to purists and customizers who value the bike's honest, characterful performance and retro charm over raw power.
- Capacity
- 499.0 ccm
- Engine
- Single single, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 174.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 27.0 HP
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- A lightweight, minimalist retro roadster meant for relaxed street riding, short jaunts, and enjoying the mechanical simplicity of a big-bore single rather than outright performance.
- Built for
- Charming, characterful, and old-school, this bike delivers a raw, thumping single-cylinder feel with modest performance but big personality and simplicity.
- Not ideal for
- Not suited for riders seeking high-speed touring, long highway distances, passenger comfort, or any serious off-road capability.
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
- 27.0 HP
- Engine type
- Single single, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1552 HP/kg
- Bore x stroke
- 87.0 x 84.0 mm
- Compression
- 9.0:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Starting
- Kick
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 135.0 km/h (83.9 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 3.50-19
- Rear tyre
- 4.00-18
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 | 1983 | 1987 | 1991 | 1995 | 1999 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches) | 499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches) | 499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches) | 499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches) | 499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches) |
| Dry weight | — | — | — | 170.0 kg (374.8 pounds) | — |
| Seat height | — | — | — | 810 mm (31.9 inches) | 810 mm (31.9 inches) |
| Fuel capacity | 12.00 litres (3.17 gallons) | 12.00 litres (3.17 gallons) | 12.00 litres (3.17 gallons) | — | 14.00 litres (3.70 gallons) |
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 SR 500?
The 1983 Yamaha SR 500 has a Capacity of 499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Yamaha SR 500 have?
The 1983 Yamaha SR 500 has a Power of 27.0 HP.
How many gears does the Yamaha SR 500 have?
The 1983 Yamaha SR 500 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Yamaha SR 500 weigh?
The 1983 Yamaha SR 500 has a Wet weight of 174.0 kg (383.6 pounds).
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