Yamaha 1981 YZ465
Second and last year of the YZ465, one of the best big bore 2 strokes air cooled bikes ever built.
This is a legendary smoker monster that delivers insanity with the twist of the wrist. She came to me as part of a deal together with a 1982 YZ490. I had a plan of restoring both bikes and racing them on a vintage class.
This bike was never abused, and I can tell by the frame and the rims. They have probably had one tire change since they left the factory.
The problem is that I took the restoration level too high, and now I don’t feel like using it for racing. Bad deal for me.
This YZ465 is a 9.5 out of 10.
Pre restoration condition:
Frame: needs paint
Wheels: good shape
Engine: broken right case ( very common on this big bore YZ’s)
Plastics: cooked
Hardware: all there but rusted and a lot of damage on it
Pipe: abused
Restoration work:
Frame: was powder coated
Hardware: all zync plated and replaced
Tons of new OEM and NOS parts ( Parts source : X-TREME VINTAGE YZ and of course Ebay )
Engine: New gaskets, Jug honed, new Wiseco Piston and rings, all new cables, new bearings.
Carburetor : Complete overhaul, new gaskets, new jets, new seats, glass blaste, jet to OEM specs.
Right case was replace by Out of Control power Sports in Ft Pierce.
Suspension: complete over haul rear and front seals and bearings.
Electrical: all cleaned and tested.
Wheels: New tubes and tires. bearing were inspected and greased.
Body: OEM tank, Aftermarket : side covers, front plate, rear and front fender
