Yamaha YZ
A cornerstone of motocross, the Yamaha YZ series is famed for pioneering the single-shock Monocross rear suspension in the 1970s. It's also credited with revolutionizing the sport by introducing the first truly competitive four-stroke race bike.
Yamaha YZ sold for a median of $5,125 over the last 12 months, based on 16 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $3,263 and $6,275. 9 currently for sale.
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56 listed in the past year. The last was 2 weeks ago.
Yamaha YZ prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1974 | $9.2k | $6.6k–$12k | 4 | 0 |
| 1975 | $3.2k | – | 2 | 0 |
| 1977 | $2.2k | $2.2k–$2.8k | 4 | 0 |
| 1978 | $2.2k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1980 | $3.8k | – | 3 | 0 |
| 1981 | $3.8k | $2.8k–$5.1k | 4 | 0 |
| 1982 | $3.4k | – | 3 | 0 |
| 1983 | $4.5k | $2.4k–$5.7k | 8 | 0 |
| 1986 | $4k | – | 3 | 0 |
| 1992 | $2.5k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 2005 | $5.8k | – | 2 | 1 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Yamaha YZ series stands as one of the most significant lines in motocross history, dating back to its debut in the early 1970s. Its immediate impact came with the introduction of the first single-shock rear suspension, known as Monocross, on the 1975 models. This innovation set a new standard for performance. Over the decades, the YZ has continuously evolved, highlighted by the revolutionary YZ400F in 1998, which brought competitive four-stroke engines to the forefront of the sport.
Collectors often seek out specific landmark models. The yellow and black 1970s bikes, particularly the first Monocross editions, are highly prized for their historical importance and iconic styling. The two-stroke YZ250 maintains a dedicated following due to its long production run and legendary performance, while the first-generation YZ400F is a milestone bike for its role in the four-stroke revolution. The market is diverse, catering to vintage racers, restorers, and modern riders alike.
The current market sees a wide spread of values. The average sale price of around $5,300 is influenced by both affordable, older bikes needing work and clean, low-hour examples from recent years. While many YZs trade for a few thousand dollars as ready-to-ride track bikes, perfectly restored vintage models or special editions can command prices well over $10,000.
Buying Tips
- Check the frame for cracks or re-welds, especially around the steering head and subframe mounts.
- Listen for engine noises. Two-strokes with rattling could indicate piston or bearing wear, while four-strokes should be free of excessive valve train or timing chain noise.
- Inspect the suspension. Look for leaking fork seals and check for excessive play in the rear shock linkage bearings.
- Examine wear items like chain, sprockets, and tires, as replacing them can add significant cost.
- Feel for play in the wheel bearings and swingarm pivot, as these are common wear points from hard use.
Based on 40 recent sales, prices range from $1,600 for older or project bikes to $11,577 for pristine vintage or modern race models.
214 Yamaha YZ vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 9 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Yamaha YZ cost?
Over the last 12 months, Yamaha YZ sold for a median of $5,125 across 16 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $3,263 and $6,275. There are 9 currently for sale.
How many Yamaha YZ listings are for sale right now?
There are 9 Yamaha YZ listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.