Dual-Sport Motorcycles
1987Yamaha XT 500
19 fields on record
The 1987 Yamaha XT 500 is a versatile middleweight dual-sport that appeals to adventure riders and beginners seeking an accessible, reliable machine. Its lightweight air-cooled single-cylinder engine delivers modest but manageable power, while the capable chassis excels both on-road and light off-road terrain. Known for durability and simplicity, the XT 500 remains a respected platform for long-distance touring and exploration.
- Capacity
- 499.0 ccm
- Engine
- Single, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 155.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 5900 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- This is a classic air-cooled trail bike built for light off-road use, green lanes, and simple mechanical riding rather than outright speed.
- Built for
- A rugged, no-frills single with old-school charm, rewarding riders who enjoy mechanical simplicity over modern refinement.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for riders wanting highway comfort, high-speed touring, or modern braking and suspension performance.
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 (19.9 kW) @ 5900 RPM
- Engine type
- Single, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1742 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 87.0 x 84.0 mm
- Compression
- 9.0:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 132.0 km/h (82.0 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Expanding brake
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 3.25-21
- 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 | 1980 | 1983 | 1985 | 1987 | 1988 | 1990 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 9 L | 9 L | 9 L | 9 L | 9 L | 12 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 XT 500?
The 1987 Yamaha XT 500 has a Capacity of 499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Yamaha XT 500 have?
The 1987 Yamaha XT 500 has a Power of 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 5900 RPM.
How many gears does the Yamaha XT 500 have?
The 1987 Yamaha XT 500 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Yamaha XT 500 weigh?
The 1987 Yamaha XT 500 has a Wet weight of 155.0 kg (341.7 pounds).
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