Naked Motorcycles
1981Yamaha SR 500 S (Spoked Wheels)
19 fields on record
The 1981 Yamaha SR 500 S with spoked wheels is a lightweight single-cylinder naked bike built for riders seeking simplicity and classic styling. Its air-cooled 499cc engine delivers modest but adequate power for everyday commuting and spirited riding. Known for its nimble handling, manageable weight, and reliable OHC design, it represents Yamaha's commitment to accessible, no-nonsense motorcycling.
- Capacity
- 499.0 ccm
- Engine
- Single
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 174.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 6000 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- A classic air-cooled thumper built for spirited backroad riding, café-style commuting, and enthusiast ownership rather than outright performance.
- Built for
- Charming, mechanically simple, and full of vibration and personality, the SR500 delivers an old-school single-cylinder riding experience prized by purists.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking modern performance, high-speed touring comfort, or effortless long-distance passenger accommodation.
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) @ 6000 RPM
- Engine type
- Single
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1552 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
- 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 | 1980 | 1981 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 499 cc | 499 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 12 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 SR 500 S (Spoked Wheels)?
The 1981 Yamaha SR 500 S (Spoked Wheels) has a Capacity of 499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Yamaha SR 500 S (Spoked Wheels) have?
The 1981 Yamaha SR 500 S (Spoked Wheels) has a Power of 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 6000 RPM.
How many gears does the Yamaha SR 500 S (Spoked Wheels) have?
The 1981 Yamaha SR 500 S (Spoked Wheels) has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Yamaha SR 500 S (Spoked Wheels) weigh?
The 1981 Yamaha SR 500 S (Spoked Wheels) has a Wet weight of 174.0 kg (383.6 pounds).
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