1985 YAMAHA YZ490 – CONCOURS-LEVEL FRAME-OFF RESTORATION – NO EXPENSE SPARED – MUSEUM QUALITY – THE KING OF PING!

THE BEAST FROM THE EAST! THE KING OF PING! THE LEGENDARY AIR-COOLED BIG-BORE TWO-STROKE YAMAHA YZ490!

An absolutely spectacular, museum-quality, nut-and-bolt restoration of one of Yamaha's most legendary open-class motocross machines!

Ladies and gentlemen, feast your eyes on what may be one of the finest restored 1985 Yamaha YZ490s you'll ever have the opportunity to own.

Here at Kaplan Cycles, we've seen thousands of vintage motorcycles, including some of the finest big-bore two-strokes ever produced. But this particular YZ490 stands in a class of its own.

This is the finest example we've personally seen, with more time, money, craftsmanship, and attention to detail invested than any other YZ490 we've encountered.

This machine represents a true labor of love. It has undergone an extraordinarily extensive, professional, frame-off restoration in which virtually every component was rebuilt, replaced, refinished, polished, powder-coated, replated, or restored to an exceptional standard.

The result is a spectacular combination of originality, craftsmanship, mechanical excellence, and breathtaking presentation.

And here's the best part:

THIS IS NOT JUST A SHOW BIKE. IT RUNS ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLY!

With its freshly rebuilt 490cc two-stroke engine, Pro Circuit exhaust, and brand-new HPI digital ignition, this Yamaha delivers the explosive power and unmistakable sound that made these legendary machines famous.

It pulls like a freight train!

EXTENSIVE DOCUMENTATION – ORIGINAL FACTORY MANUALS INCLUDED!

One of the most impressive aspects of this motorcycle is its documentation.

Included with the sale are:

• Original Yamaha owner's manual.

• Original Yamaha race preparation and tuning manual.

• An approximately one-inch-thick collection of restoration receipts and supporting paperwork.

• Extensive documentation covering the numerous parts, components, and services involved in this remarkable restoration.

The only receipt not currently included is for the recently installed brand-new HPI digital ignition system.

This documentation speaks volumes about the tremendous investment that went into building this extraordinary machine.

COMPLETE ENGINE REBUILD – NO EXPENSE SPARED!

The engine was completely removed, dismantled, and rebuilt from the crankshaft up.

This was not a cosmetic refresh or a quick top-end job. The engine cases were split, and the entire engine was professionally reconditioned.

Engine restoration highlights include:

• Complete engine disassembly and crankcase splitting.

• Rebuilt crankshaft.

• New crankshaft bearings.

• New engine seals.

• New connecting rod.

• New rod bearing.

• New piston and piston rings.

• Cylinder professionally resleeved by LA Sleeve.

• Cylinder ports cleaned and polished.

• Cylinder head cleaned and polished.

• Engine cases professionally refinished and powder-coated.

• New intake components.

• Fully rebuilt carburetor with new jets.

• Restored airbox with new air filter.

• Brand-new HPI digital ignition system.

• Carburetion carefully sorted for excellent running performance.

The engine's finish deserves special attention.

Rather than simply spraying the engine with paint, the cases were professionally prepared, vapor-honed, refinished, and powder-coated for a beautiful, durable, factory-inspired appearance.

This is an expensive, labor-intensive process that is rarely performed on ordinary restorations.

The results are spectacular.

The engine mounting brackets have been replated, the hardware has been restored or replaced, and every visible detail reflects the level of craftsmanship invested.

The engine looks magnificent, runs beautifully, and delivers the tremendous torque and explosive acceleration that define Yamaha's legendary big-bore two-strokes.

ENTIRE FUEL SYSTEM REPLACED!

The fuel system received the same extraordinary attention as the engine.

• Brand-new fuel tank.

• Brand-new fuel cap.

• Brand-new fuel petcock.

• Brand-new fuel lines.

• Brand-new fuel filter.

• New carburetor drain hoses.

• Professionally rebuilt carburetor.

• New jets.

• Restored airbox.

• New air filter.

• Original Yamaha Energy Induction System boost bottle with a beautiful replacement decal.

The fuel tank remained completely unused until approximately two weeks before our presentation, when the motorcycle was fueled and started.

Everything is exceptionally clean and beautifully presented.

PRO CIRCUIT PERFORMANCE EXHAUST!

This YZ490 is equipped with a high-performance Pro Circuit exhaust system consisting of:

Pro Circuit expansion chamber and Pro Circuit Factory Sound 304 stainless-steel silencer.

The expansion chamber has been finished in factory-style black to preserve the classic OEM appearance while delivering the performance advantages of a genuine Pro Circuit pipe.

The combination of the meticulously rebuilt engine, properly tuned carburetor, upgraded digital ignition, and performance exhaust creates a truly exhilarating riding experience.

This motorcycle sounds incredible!

COMPLETE FRAME-OFF RESTORATION!

The entire motorcycle was dismantled down to the bare frame.

The frame was professionally sandblasted, inspected, prepared, and powder-coated in its original Yamaha red finish.

The frame is exceptionally straight and clean, without the typical dents, gouges, scratches, and damage commonly associated with vintage motocross racing.

It presents beautifully.

The engine mounting brackets were re-zinc-plated, and the original hardware was restored or replaced with beautifully finished zinc-plated hardware.

The attention to detail is evident everywhere you look.

There are no ugly stripped fasteners, butchered bolts, or careless repairs commonly found on decades-old racing motorcycles.

Even the smallest components were treated with the attention typically reserved for an elite concours-level restoration.

COMPLETE FRONT SUSPENSION RESTORATION!

The front suspension has been completely rebuilt and cosmetically restored.

• Front forks completely disassembled and rebuilt.

• New fork seals.

• New fork oil.

• New fork gaiters.

• Fork lowers professionally reconditioned and polished.

• New steering-head bearings.

• Triple clamps professionally refinished and clear-coated.

• Restored handlebars.

• New control components and hardware.

The beautifully restored triple clamps and refinished fork components are prime examples of the tremendous attention to detail throughout this motorcycle.

FRONT WHEEL AND BRAKE SYSTEM – COMPLETELY RESTORED!

The front wheel was completely dismantled and professionally rebuilt.

• Beautiful gold DID rim.

• Brand-new spokes.

• Restored and refinished front hub.

• New wheel bearings.

• Brand-new Michelin StarCross motocross tire.

• Brand-new 270mm front brake rotor.

• Completely rebuilt front brake caliper.

• New caliper seals.

• New brake pads.

• Brand-new braided stainless-steel front brake line.

• Restored front brake master cylinder.

• Brand-new front brake lever.

The front braking system is exceptionally clean and beautifully presented.

Even the stainless-steel brake line is brand new, rather than the aged, discolored original-style lines so often found on vintage machines.

REAR SUSPENSION – COMPLETELY REBUILT AND REFINISHED!

The rear suspension received an equally extensive restoration.

The aluminum swingarm was stripped of its aged original clear coat, professionally refinished, and clear-coated to reproduce its beautiful factory appearance.

The linkage components received the same meticulous treatment.

Rear suspension restoration includes:

• Professionally rebuilt rear shock absorber.

• New shock bumper.

• Refinished and powder-coated shock spring.

• Replacement factory-style shock decal.

• New shock bushings and related wear components.

• New swingarm bearings.

• New suspension linkage bearings.

• Professionally restored suspension linkage.

• Swingarm stripped, refinished, and clear-coated.

• Restored brake stay with beautiful factory-inspired finish.

Even the top and bottom portions of the shock and linkage have been carefully refinished.

The results are remarkable.

REAR WHEEL, BRAKES, AND DRIVETRAIN RESTORATION!

The rear wheel was completely dismantled and rebuilt.

• Restored gold rear rim.

• Brand-new stainless-steel spokes.

• Professionally powder-coated rear hub.

• New rear wheel bearings.

• Rebuilt rear brake system.

• New rear brake shoes and associated service components.

• Brand-new drive chain.

• Brand-new sprockets.

• Beautiful new gold chain.

• Brand-new upper chain slider.

• Brand-new lower chain slider.

• New chain rollers.

The restored rear hub has the correct, beautiful factory-inspired sheen, and the gold chain and gold rims complement the Yamaha red-and-white color scheme perfectly.

BRAND-NEW COSMETICS AND CONTROLS!

The cosmetic restoration is truly outstanding.

• Brand-new fuel tank and cap.

• Brand-new front fender.

• Brand-new rear fender.

• Brand-new front number plate.

• Brand-new side number plates.

• Beautifully recreated factory graphics.

• Brand-new seat cover and foam.

• New clutch perch.

• New clutch cable.

• New throttle cable.

• New control cables as applicable.

• New kill switch.

• New handgrips.

• Brand-new shift lever.

• Restored original footpegs with new hardware.

• Beautifully restored handlebars.

• Extensive replated and refinished hardware throughout.

The factory-style graphics are particularly impressive.

So many restored vintage motocross machines suffer from poorly fitted decals, incorrect finishes, and overlooked details.

Not this one.

The graphics, bodywork, and beautiful red-and-white color combination give this machine an unmistakable mid-1980s Yamaha appearance with a striking European-inspired aesthetic.

The finished motorcycle is absolutely stunning from every angle.

MINIMAL RIDE TIME – NEVER RIDDEN IN THE DIRT SINCE RESTORATION!

This is one of the most important aspects of this motorcycle.

The motorcycle has approximately 30 minutes of total riding time since its extensive restoration.

It has been started, tested, and personally ridden on pavement by Ken Kaplan.

It has never been ridden in the dirt since the restoration was completed.

There is no post-restoration motocross racing wear, mud damage, or track abuse.

The tires, engine, frame, suspension, and cosmetic finishes remain in extraordinary condition.

This is essentially a freshly completed, exceptionally well-documented restoration that has been mechanically tested but not subjected to off-road use.

A MUSEUM-QUALITY COLLECTOR'S MOTORCYCLE THAT YOU CAN ACTUALLY RIDE!

Let's be clear about something.

You can absolutely ride this Yamaha.

It is a genuine, fully functioning, extremely powerful YZ490.

It starts, runs, and delivers the exhilarating performance these motorcycles are famous for.

But considering the tremendous time, money, and craftsmanship invested in restoring this example, we believe its highest and best use would be as the centerpiece of a serious vintage motocross collection, a private museum, or an exceptional display motorcycle.

Could you take it to the motocross track and race it?

Absolutely.

But finding another example restored to this level would be extraordinarily difficult, and recreating it would be expensive.

To put this level of craftsmanship into perspective, imagine taking an ordinary 40-year-old YZ490, dismantling it down to the final nut and bolt, professionally restoring every major component, locating the proper replacement parts, and achieving this level of finish.

Then imagine taking that masterpiece out for one muddy motocross race!

This machine is as much a work of mechanical art as it is a legendary open-class motocross motorcycle.

WHAT WOULD IT COST TO DUPLICATE THIS RESTORATION?

This is where the magnitude of this motorcycle's restoration becomes apparent.

A professional restoration of this caliber can easily require 70 to 100 hours or more of skilled labor, depending on the condition of the starting motorcycle.

At today's professional motorcycle shop labor rates of approximately $150 to $200 per hour, the labor alone can represent an investment of $10,500 to $20,000.

Add approximately $5,000 in parts, specialized machine work, plating, powder coating, finishing, suspension restoration, wheel rebuilding, and other services, and the investment becomes substantial.

We estimate that duplicating a restoration of this caliber could cost approximately $20,000 to $25,000, depending on the donor motorcycle and the work required.

And that doesn't include the frustration of spending months tracking down increasingly scarce vintage parts, coordinating specialty restoration services, and carefully reassembling everything without damaging the finishes.

This restoration represents countless hours of skilled labor and a level of financial commitment that is difficult to justify on a purely economic basis.

That is precisely why we call it a labor of love.

You simply cannot build one like this cheaply.

And opportunities to purchase a completed example of this caliber are exceedingly rare.

THE LEGENDARY YAMAHA YZ490 – THE KING OF PING!

The Yamaha YZ490 occupies a special place in motocross history.

During the 1980s, the open-class motocross category was home to some of the most powerful, demanding, and exciting dirt bikes ever produced.

Honda had its CR500, Kawasaki had its KX500, Suzuki had its RM500, and Yamaha had the mighty YZ490.

Unlike the liquid-cooled competition, Yamaha's legendary 490 remained air-cooled, giving it a distinctive appearance and an unmistakable character.

The enormous cylinder, massive cooling fins, and raw two-stroke power delivery make the YZ490 instantly recognizable to knowledgeable enthusiasts.

These were serious machines designed for experienced riders who appreciated enormous torque, explosive acceleration, and the incredible sound of a big-bore two-stroke.

There is nothing quite like the bark of an open-class two-stroke when it comes onto the pipe.

Today, the legendary big-bore motocross machines of the 1980s and 1990s have developed a passionate following among collectors, racers, restorers, and enthusiasts.

The finest examples, particularly extensively documented and professionally restored motorcycles, hold special appeal.

And this 1985 Yamaha YZ490 is among the most spectacular examples we've had the privilege of presenting.

RESTORATION HIGHLIGHTS AT A GLANCE

1985 Yamaha YZ490 – Museum-Quality Restoration

• Complete nut-and-bolt frame-off restoration.

• Professionally restored and powder-coated Yamaha red frame.

• Completely rebuilt 490cc air-cooled two-stroke engine.

• Rebuilt crankshaft, connecting rod, bearings, and seals.

• LA Sleeve cylinder resleeving.

• New piston and rings.

• Professionally refinished and powder-coated engine.

• Brand-new HPI digital ignition.

• Rebuilt and carefully jetted carburetor.

• Entire fuel system renewed.

• Brand-new fuel tank and bodywork.

• Pro Circuit performance exhaust system.

• Completely rebuilt front forks.

• Professionally rebuilt rear shock.

• Restored and clear-coated swingarm and suspension linkage.

• New swingarm, linkage, steering-head, and wheel bearings.

• Rebuilt front and rear wheels.

• Gold DID rims and new spokes.

• New Michelin StarCross front tire.

• Upgraded 270mm front disc brake.

• Rebuilt front and rear brake systems.

• New stainless-steel braided front brake line.

• New gold chain and sprockets.

• Recreated factory-style graphics.

• New seat cover and foam.

• Extensive replated hardware.

• Original Yamaha owner's and racing/tuning manuals.

• Approximately one-inch-thick collection of restoration receipts.

• Approximately 30 minutes of pavement-only riding since restoration.

• Never ridden in the dirt since completion.

SOLD TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER!

The total investment in this motorcycle substantially exceeds what most vintage motocross machines sell for.

But we didn't build this motorcycle to cut corners, and we certainly didn't build it to be an average used dirt bike.

This is an extraordinary example intended for someone who appreciates the history, mechanical craftsmanship, and excitement of Yamaha's legendary big-bore two-strokes.

This spectacular machine will be offered at auction and sold to the highest bidder.

Whether you're a serious vintage motocross collector, a lifelong Yamaha enthusiast, or someone looking for a showpiece for your private collection, this motorcycle deserves your consideration.

Opportunities to acquire a YZ490 restored to this standard do not come along every day.

SHIPPING AND FINANCING AVAILABLE!

Kaplan Cycles can assist with professional, licensed, insured, enclosed motorcycle transportation directly to your door anywhere in the continental United States.

Financing is also available to qualified buyers through Freedom Road Financial, subject to credit approval and applicable terms.

Visit KaplanCycles.com to see our extensive collection of classic, vintage, and collectible motorcycles, along with the incredible selection of new motorcycles in our recently expanded showroom.

We proudly represent multiple leading motorcycle manufacturers and offer an exciting selection of motorcycles for enthusiasts of all kinds.

Contact Kaplan Cycles with any questions about this exceptional YZ490.

FINAL WORD

There are used YZ490s.

There are restored YZ490s.

And then there are extraordinary, no-expense-spared restorations like this one.

This beautiful 1985 Yamaha YZ490 combines the soul of a legendary open-class two-stroke with the craftsmanship and visual presence of a museum-quality restoration.

THE BEAST FROM THE EAST.

THE KING OF PING.

THE LEGENDARY AIR-COOLED YAMAHA YZ490.

A MOTORCYCLE BUILT TO DOMINATE THE DIRT, RESTORED TO A LEVEL THAT MAKES IT ALMOST TOO BEAUTIFUL TO RIDE!

Bid with confidence and good luck!

KAPLAN CYCLES

Preserving motorcycle history, one extraordinary machine at a time.

KaplanCycles.com

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WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?

“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.

With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.

With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country

You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.

You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.

We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.

You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.

Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.

Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.

You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset

You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.

From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.

Sincerely,

Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”

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AUCTION TERMS:

All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.

Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.

A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.

Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.

Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.

Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close. 

Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.

If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.

We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.

You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.

If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.

It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.

Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)

We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday

For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192

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We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV. 

We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.

In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.

In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.

Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.

Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.

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Warranty:

All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.

SHIPPING:

SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!

We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.

International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.

We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.

PICKUP:

We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.

We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.