Yamaha proudly announces the arrival of the 2026 Yamaha 70th Edition YZ500 2-Stroke, celebrating seven decades of innovation, racing legacy, and engineering excellence…
In a move that has thrilled motocross enthusiasts and two-stroke loyalists across the globe, Yamaha Motor Company has proudly unveiled the 2026 Yamaha YZ500 2-Stroke 70th Anniversary Edition — a tribute to seven decades of unmatched innovation, engineering excellence, and a racing legacy that has left tire marks across the world.
More than just a motorcycle, the YZ500 2-Stroke is a bold celebration of Yamaha’s historic commitment to performance and passion, blending iconic old-school muscle with cutting-edge technology. This limited-edition model pays homage to Yamaha’s first production motorcycle, the YA-1, released in 1955 — a machine that launched the brand’s journey to becoming one of the most respected names in global motorsports.
A Historic Return: The Big Bore 2-Stroke Is Back
After years of whispers, patent leaks, and speculative renderings, Yamaha has finally answered the call of die-hard riders and vintage race fans with the release of a 500cc 2-stroke monster — the first of its kind from a major manufacturer in decades.
The 2026 YZ500 70th Anniversary Edition combines the raw, visceral power of its legendary two-stroke predecessors with modern refinement. Built with a completely redesigned lightweight aluminum chassis and enhanced suspension geometry, the YZ500 delivers unprecedented agility and responsiveness for a big-bore machine.
At its heart lies a brand-new 499cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder 2-stroke engine, engineered for explosive torque and razor-sharp throttle response. With Yamaha’s cutting-edge Power Valve System (YPVS), digital ignition mapping, and electronically assisted launch control, this beast is as sophisticated as it is savage.
Design: Retro Aesthetics Meets Future Form
The 70th Anniversary YZ500 wears its heritage with pride. It features a special edition retro livery inspired by Yamaha’s 1980s factory race bikes, complete with classic white-and-red speed block graphics, gold anodized rims, and a commemorative 70th anniversary badge laser-etched into the frame.
Yamaha’s design team worked closely with its racing division to ensure the bike honors the visual soul of past champions while pushing the boundaries of 21st-century motocross design. Riders will appreciate touches like the forged triple clamps, titanium fasteners, and carbon-fiber skid plate — lightweight performance with elite attention to detail.
Celebrating Seven Decades of Yamaha Dominance
Since the debut of the YA-1, Yamaha has earned its place at the pinnacle of motorcycle engineering. From the screaming RD series and championship-winning YZ250s to the four-stroke revolutions of the YZ-F line, Yamaha has never strayed far from its racing DNA.
“The YZ500 2-Stroke is our love letter to Yamaha’s past, present, and future,” said Hiroshi Ito, Yamaha’s Global Head of Off-Road Development, during the official press reveal in Iwata. “It’s not just a motorcycle — it’s a celebration of our legacy and a reminder that we’re not done pushing boundaries.”
The 70th Anniversary Edition marks a return to Yamaha’s two-stroke roots, a segment that still commands fierce loyalty among off-road riders for its lightweight design, raw power, and mechanical simplicity.
Limited Production and Global Availability
Yamaha has confirmed that the YZ500 70th Anniversary Edition will be produced in limited numbers, with only 7,000 units worldwide to commemorate the seven decades of the brand’s existence. Each bike will come with a numbered plaque and a collector’s kit, including a commemorative hardbound history book, anniversary riding gloves, and a certificate of authenticity signed by Yamaha engineers.
Pre-orders will begin in September 2025, with deliveries expected to roll out in early February 2026. The model will be available in select markets across North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia.
A Roar for the Future
With the release of the 2026 Yamaha YZ500 2-Stroke 70th Anniversary Edition, Yamaha has not only reignited the flames of its glorious past — it has issued a bold statement about the future of off-road riding. In an era increasingly focused on electrification and digitalization, Yamaha reminds the world that passion, performance, and power still have a place.
For those who crave the sound of a screaming two-stroke echoing through the woods, the feel of the front wheel lifting with a twist of the wrist, and the smell of race fuel on a cool morning — the legend is back.
And it’s louder than ever.
