What category is the 1996 Yamaha SR 500?

General information
Category	Classic
Model	Yamaha SR 500
Year	1996
Engine and Transmission Specifications
Transmission typefinal drive	Chain
Gearbox	5-speed
Cooling system	Air
Starter	Kick
Valves per cylinder	2
Torque	36.30
Power	23.50
Stroke	4
Engine type	Single cylinder
Capacity:	499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)

Physical measures and capacities
Seat height	810 mm (31.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight	170.0 kg (374.8 pounds)
Yamaha SR 500 dimensions and frame
Rear brakes	Expanding brake
Front brakes	Expanding brake
Speed and acceleration
Power/weight ratio	0.1382 HP/kg

Other specs
Maintenance	Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

24 hp

Peak Power

9.5s

0-60 mph

Best For

Track15%

City65%

Cornering55%

Daily Riding55%

Touring30%

Passenger25%

Rider Profile

Best For	Best suited to riders who appreciate classic single-cylinder motorcycles and are comfortable with a kick-start, low-power machine that rewards smooth, deliberate riding.
Purpose	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.
Rider Fit	The 810mm seat height and 173kg curb weight make it manageable for most riders, though the kick-starter and torquey low-rev engine demand some physical engagement and technique.
Character	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.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 810mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1996 Yamaha SR 500, with a relaxed knee angle of around 125 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: estimated (wheelbase estimated from this category's typical bike, not this model's own spec). Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →