The XT500 was debuted at the 1975 Paris show where it made a considerable impact. Yamaha had been encouraged by their North American importers to produce a durable machine capable of contending with the great distances encountered in the States better than the contemporary two stroke trail bikes, whilst retaining a high degree of off road ability. A large capacity four stroke single offered the stamina and performance required and would also meet the increasingly stringent emission controls then coming into force. Using modern technology Yamaha were able to produce a comparatively compact four stroke single that offered good performance without weighing an excessive amount. The machines success in its first season suggested that they had found the right balance between durability and performance with the XT500 quickly becoming the mount of choice for people seeking adventure in the States, Europe and further a field. For 1977 the XT continued to be offered in its traditional white and red livery, but benefited from a new, less vulnerable exhaust system and a revised bash plate and was offered together with a brown colour scheme. This variant did not prove to be popular at the time but has subsequently acquired a cult status of its own.

The example offered finished in the rare brown livery has recently been imported from the United States. The vendor informs us that it runs well and is in excellent original condition. It is offered Vat and Duty paid in the UK.