The SR500 proved to have amazing longevity. The classically styled single, obviously owing much to AJS, BSA and Matchless models of yore, made its debut in 1978 and was sold in the U.S. through 1981, but continued in other markets until 1999 – in fact, a smaller SR400 model was sold in Japan until 2008 and was reintroduced to America in 2015. Still popular today, SRs are seeing new life as the basis for bobbers, street-trackers and café-racers.

This first-year SR500, showing 14,342 miles, remains in totally stock condition, and with its black paint and gold striping fits in very well with the classic motorcycle world.

This Yamaha DOC 500 is an original paint, original motorcycle. It was a limited production motorcycle with some very unique features including a sight glass to indicate top dead center on compression during the kick start and a gas valve that has a prime indicator for initial starting.

https://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/yamaha/yamaha_sr500%2078.htm
Specs on the bike and a great story on how to start the bike!

Mileage: 14494 showing on the working odometer.

Paint: Paint is in excellent shape with just a few storage scratches. It takes a great shine!

Sheet Metal: Great condition. Seems all original and nicely fit.

hrome: Good condition

Mechanical: This bike has great compression. It runs out nice through the gears and idles back nicely when warm. Great power curve with a top speed of @94 mph.

Wheels and Tires: Painted aluminum 7 spoke rims
Rear: Dunlop 110/90-18
Front:

Title: Clear CA title
Engine #        2J2-005329
Frame  #        2J2-005329

Valuations: Mecum sales and ebay sales comps around $6500

NADA:  https://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/1978/Yamaha/SR500E/Values

Excellent:         $3,700
Very Good:      $2,060
Good:               $1,265

Hagerty: https://www.hagerty.com/apps/valuationtools/1978-Yamaha-SR500E–

–  #1 Concours          $5,000
–  #2 Excellent          $4,000
–  #3 Good                 $3,200

Accessories: As shown on the bike in the pictures.