The Yamaha RZV500R is a rare and iconic motorcycle that was only available in Japan and limited to just 1,600 units. Based on the RZ500, the RZV500R featured several upgrades, including an aluminum frame. The original RZ500 was a four-cylinder two-stroke race replica that had to be restricted to comply with Japanese legislation. Yamaha reduced the horsepower from 88 to 64 and replaced the steel frame with a lighter aluminum frame.
Despite its popularity, Mike Vienne of Championship Cycles believes that the RZV500R has room for improvement. He wanted to create a design that paid homage to the GP motorcycles of the early 1980s, instead of the usual Wayne Rainey Marlboro replica. Vienne focused on incorporating new period-correct components and custom fabricated parts that were influenced by the design of 80s-era race bikes.
One of the key features of the RZV500R is its hand-welded aluminum frame. Vienne used this as a starting point and fabricated new front and rear subframes, a billet aluminum swingarm, and rear-sets that echoed the triangular design of the main frame’s gussets. Mark Atkinson, a well-known fabrication guru, was responsible for the stunning CNC work.
Vienne also made several modifications to the original bike’s components. The exhaust routing, which displaced the shock’s vertical layout, was retained but the heavy cast linkage and relay arms were remade in billet aluminum. The bike also received new fully adjustable forks and a Nitron shock. The original 16F/18R wheels, which were heavy and difficult to find tires for, were replaced with three-spoke forged aluminum hoops from Dymag.
The engine of the RZV500R was in rough shape and only producing a fraction of its original horsepower. Wilson Performance rebuilt the motor and upgraded it to over 100 horsepower. The transmission was modified and the Mikuni carbs were replaced with new single-circuit metering rod carbs from Smart Carb. Wayne ‘Wobbly’ Wright in New Zealand custom built a set of chambers to match the new engine, and Bryce Meads created a lightweight titanium exhaust system.
The bike also features several weight-saving measures, including a carbon fiber rear cowl, a custom fuel cell, and fiberglass race fairings. Other additions include a Motogadget speedo, Brembo brake control, hydraulic clutch master cylinder, Lithium-ion battery, and an aluminum radiator.
According to Vienne, the end result is a bike that is a sensory experience to ride. The four-pipe exhaust system emits an unforgettable sound and the bike accelerates with a ferociousness that turns heads. While it may be tame at lower RPMs, once it reaches the powerband, the front wheel jumps off the ground. Vienne describes it as feeling like two 250 cc motors strapped together, but with surprising low-end power for a two-stroke.
Overall, the Yamaha RZV500R restomod is a stunning example of a vintage motorcycle brought back to life with modern upgrades. Vienne’s attention to detail and the incorporation of period-correct components have resulted in a unique and exhilarating riding experience.