1980s Yamaha DT50MX
The 1980s Yamaha DT50mx is a classic motorcycle that has seen a resurgence in the past few years due to its reliable performance, stylish aesthetic and ease of use. This 2-stroke enduro bike was originally released in 1981 as an off-road machine with a 50cc engine, but it quickly became popular for urban commuting too. The ‘MX’ designation was commonly used on Yamaha motorcycles fitted with the ‘Mono-Cross’ rear suspension, which was the first to employ a single shock-absorber.
With its iconic colour options of bodywork, the Yamaha DT50 instantly became a recognisable model on the roads. The lightweight frame and sturdy suspension made this bike easy to handle, even for novice riders. It was also affordable compared to other models on the market at the time, making it increasingly popular among budget-conscious and consumers in Europe and beyond, with the possibility of 16-year olds to ride on a provisional license and ‘L’ plates.
Thanks to its durability and timeless design, vintage 1980s Yamaha DT50s are still widely sought after today.
Design & Features
The 1980s Yamaha DT50 is a classic motorcycle that has stood the test of time and become an iconic example of vintage motocross design. It comes equipped with a 49 cc two-stroke single-cylinder engine, making it an incredibly powerful little machine. As well as the power, this bike also offers great handling with its lightweight frame and front and rear suspensions.
The 1980s Yamaha DT50mx was designed to be reliable, durable and easy to ride. The chassis features a steel backbone combined with a swingarm at the rear which makes for smooth cornering as well as ensuring stability when hitting jumps or going through rough terrain. Additionally, the tank is ergonomically designed for comfort during long rides, while the handlebars provide excellent control over direction and speed.
Performance
In the 1980s, Yamaha’s DT50mx was a popular bike for both racing and recreational performance. This two-stroke dirtbike had great power and agility, giving riders an edge on the track or trail. Riders of all skill levels got a thrill from its impressive acceleration and cornering ability.
The DT50mx was powered by a single cylinder 49cc engine which produced enough torque to handle even the most difficult terrain. The bike was lightweight and nimble, thanks to its sturdy steel frame, allowing riders to maneuver with ease. Its five-speed transmission gave riders precise control over their ride, allowing them to go fast or slow as needed.
Dt50’s power capabilities where commonly and easily up-rated by ‘de-restricting’, exhaust change and sprocket set changes, especially by a speed hungry 16-year old rider!
Overall, Yamaha’s DT50mx was an excellent choice for anyone looking for performance in the 1980s.
Yamaha DT50mx Video
Impact of the Bike
The Yamaha DT50mx is a cult classic bike that has had a huge impact on the world of motorcycling. First introduced in the early 1980s, this two-stroke enduro bike quickly became known for its ruggedness and agility. Still popular today, it’s easy to see why the Yamaha DT50mx has become so influential.
This 50cc single cylinder enduro bike was designed to be ridden off road and could withstand some of the toughest terrain around. Its light weight frame, durable engine, and versatile suspension made it an ideal choice for motocross riders looking for an economical yet reliable ride. It remained largely unchanged through out its production life until 1988 when it was replaced with a newer model.
Price & Availability
The 1980s Yamaha DT50mx was a two-stroke motorcycle designed and released by the Japanese manufacturer, Yamaha. It was one of the most popular motorcycles of its era, and continues to be sought after by collectors today.
This classic bike is still widely available for purchase on various online marketplaces as well as in some specialised dealers. Prices can vary for a restored bike in good condition however these prices can rise significantly depending on the seller’s demands, it’s fairly rare to find I bike in showroom condition. Restoring an original model can be costly due to the difficulty finding spare parts, with new parts often needing to be custom made or sourced from other manufacturers.
The rarity and popularity of this particular motorcycle means that it could serve as a sound investment over time.
Comparisons to Other Models
The Yamaha DT50mx has been a popular choice for motorcycling enthusiasts since its release in the 1980s. This two-stroke offroad motorcycle is renowned for its slim profile, powerful acceleration and reliable engine. But how does it stack up against other models released in the same era?
The DT50mx is considered to be superior to many of its competitors from the era due to its impressive power output and strong performance characteristics. It has a smaller frame than other motorcycles released during this time, making it easier to maneuverer on tough terrain. The bike is also noted for having smoother handling than many other similar models from that period.
Alternative 50cc bikes of the era included the Honda MTX50, Kawasaki AR50 and Suzuki TS50ER.
The Yamaha DT50mx of the 1980s was a great, lightweight motorbike that was able to handle tough terrain effortlessly. It provided an enjoyable ride for people of all ages and experience levels and offered a combination of ruggedness, power, and agility. The bike could easily be modified with aftermarket parts to create a truly customized ride. Its dependability and value made it an attractive option in its day.
Featured Photo by Texon, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
