Breaking news: As a way to commemorate seven decades of creative thinking, racing legacy, and engineering brilliance, Yamaha is pleased to present the introduction of the 2025 Yamaha 70th Series YZ500 2-Stroke….
In a bold celebration of its 70-year legacy of racing excellence and engineering mastery, Yamaha has officially unveiled the all-new 2025 Yamaha 70th Series YZ500 2-Stroke. This highly anticipated machine marks a momentous return to high-displacement 2-stroke motocross supremacy, blending cutting-edge innovation with nostalgic reverence for Yamaha’s golden era of off-road dominance.
The YZ500 stands as a tribute to Yamaha’s relentless pursuit of performance and its rich racing history. A spiritual successor to the legendary YZ490, the 2025 YZ500 arrives with a fully reengineered liquid-cooled 499cc 2-stroke engine, purpose-built to deliver explosive power, razor-sharp throttle response, and unmistakable 2-stroke character. Engineered with modern performance standards in mind, the powerplant benefits from advanced port timing, electronically controlled power valve technology, and digital fuel injection—marking a historic first for Yamaha 2-strokes.
Beneath its classic-inspired bodywork lies Yamaha’s state-of-the-art aluminum bilateral beam frame, designed for superior rigidity, cornering precision, and minimal weight. Combined with KYB’s industry-leading suspension components and race-bred ergonomics, the YZ500 provides riders with a perfectly balanced chassis for dominating today’s demanding motocross circuits.
Visually, the 70th Series YZ500 honors the brand’s heritage with a limited-edition retro livery—complete with speedblock graphics, gold rims, and a vintage-style seat cover reminiscent of Yamaha’s factory race bikes from the 1980s. A commemorative “70th Anniversary” badge is proudly displayed on the airbox and triple clamp, adding a unique touch for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Yamaha’s unveiling of the YZ500 signals more than just a new model—it’s a statement of intent. In an era increasingly dominated by 4-strokes and electric powertrains, the YZ500 rekindles the raw, visceral appeal that made 2-strokes a staple of motocross lore. It serves as a bridge between past and future, paying homage to the spirit of innovation that defined Yamaha’s earliest days while showcasing the brand’s ability to push the limits of performance in 2025.
The 2025 Yamaha 70th Series YZ500 2-Stroke will be available in limited numbers through select Yamaha dealerships starting early next year. Riders and collectors alike are advised to act quickly—history waits for no one.
