Riding a 2023 YZ500 2 Stroke for the FIRST Time!

We hit the track on our YZ500 2 Stroke Dirt Bike for the very first time! After taking on the mission to re-create a legend and build a modern day YZM 500cc monster two stroke, we finally find our selves at the MX track ready to take the custom built YZILLA for her first test ride! And in the process we'll become the very first people in the world to do so!
So far in the series we've transformed a regular Yamaha YZ250 into this big bore beast, and then we made her look pretty with the retro throwback styling. Today we gather our test squad to hit the motocross track for the first time. Join us as we hang on for the ride of our lives!
A massive thank you must go to Wulfsport International for their support of the channel and the YZILLA project. Check them out here: wulfsportinter...
FB: / wulfsportinternational
Insta: www.instagram....
This build wouldn't have been possible without the help of Roland Shaw from Hardcore Racing. If you want to see more of the YZilla be sure to subscribe to 999lazer to never miss an episode!
Check out Hardcore racing here: www.motocrossd...
Check out the BRC products here: brcracing.ca/
A massive shout out goes to Roland for helping out so much with this project and to Riley and BRC for all their help so far. Thanks to Sean Smith for letting it rip

[@jamesward4893]

I’m 56 years old and I grew up riding 2 stroke motocross bikes and had a CR500R back in the day and wish I still had it today, long live the 2 stroke.

[@jpesicka999]

Get urself a 125 u got plenty of gas in the tank!

[@Steve-1269]

If you don't already know about it..Check out a channel called Kaplan America. They build some amazing CR500s. They built a gasgas 500 also. They have one of the best motorcycle museums in America and some of the best bikes in the world. They sell bikes and ship worldwide if you're thinking about buying a 500.

[@randywilder2797]

Long live the two stroke riders.

[@AzPauly]

I'm 57, the only Dealer New bike I've ever bought was an '87 CR500R.. amazing machine.. no replacement for displacement...I remember thinking as I put my riding boots and chest protector on that I could possibly die today.. ;) It was awesome!

[@Steve-1269]

@@AzPauly nice! The CR500 in my opinion is one of the best dirt bikes ever made..and an 87. Thas awesome. Some consider 86 or 87 one of the best year for that engine too. You know you're in for a ride if you can break your leg just starting it. Doesn't even have to be moving to hurt you haha. I've seen a few different little tricks to getting them to start easier, especially when they're cold.

[@Tmac327]

There is nothing better off-road/motocross/Dirtbike than a 500cc 2stroke!!! BRING BACK 500CC 2 STROKES AND THE OPEN CLASS!!!

[@williamkunte5361]

How about the 450?

[@danwest4859]

Would eat a 459

[@Steve-1269]

@@williamkunte5361 450s are 4 stroke

[@richardlangley5594]

WOW It's great to hear an American pronounce the letter zed the correct way.Insead of the poofy way they usually do Zee.

[@strykerjones8842]

@@richardlangley5594 As an American I’m happy to hear you’re pleased, but I abide by American customs. I didn’t realize Brits found our pronunciation “poofy”, we usually reserve that reference for people that shift their cars through the gears with their left hand.

[@matthewjohnson1643]

There’s nothing better than the sound of a two-stroke

[@garyeinfeldt5436]

I Absolutely agree.

[@DancerOfClouds]

Now that is what a MotoCross bike is supposed to sound like. Brought tears to my eyes. I will never forget how a young kid blitzed the field on his 125 because they guys on the 250’s and 500’s couldn’t handle the power. Bring back the 2-Strokes!!!!!

[@petejones6827]

i grew up watching Mcgrath didnt miss a st louis supercross race for years. been back a few times since they went four stroke it just isnt the same. the sounds the smell its all different now.

[@隠れた]

It’s not necessarily always “they couldn’t handle the power” it’s that on 125 you can just go full throttle but with 250 & 500 you gotta gauge your power and get it just right it you don’t wanna go flat or case

[@garyeinfeldt5436]

The sound of a big bore 2 stroke is like beautiful music, even better at idle ! I've owned 3 different YZ 490's

[@markkukla165]

I'm 57 and still ride my 1986 kx 500, there's nothing like riding a 500, love it awsome build guys

[@taff6987]

I had an 87 kx500 when I was just 14...it would wheelie right through every gear. A heavy but quick bike that was in reality far too much for me at the time. I still give as good as I could though but to be honest I wasn't riding the bike....the bike was riding me😂💥

[@sushimamba4281]

Now I wish I kept my 86 KX500!

[@tcrides2137]

That's awesome, all I ever rode were the old CR 500s back in the day. I love the idea of this to try and bring the 500 2 stroke back.

[@davidrockey7190]

Yeah

[@andreawhalen4142]

I had an 87cr that i made a massive mistake of having ported, head work, a psi hot pipe reed cage and 40mm carb etc. That bike came on so hard i would get exhausted hanging onto it. I was nearly killed when rain had washed out the side of a dirt road that i didn't see in time, i snapped the throttle and the rear wheel lit up so hard and as i corrected it was too late. I went over the edge and landed on my left scapula shattering it on a boulder. In the end the bike got repaired and the guy who bought it had it dynoed about a year later, 77hp and massive torque numbers, he has since been killed on this exact bike, i never rode another nutty open class built bike until 2019 when a friend had me try his 2019cr450 in a field, that bike was also too much, not as violent as the older cr but violent enough to remember that honda open classers have earned their reputation as WIDOW MAKERS!

[@davebrunette6394]

I'm a open class rider from the 80's and 90's. this stuff makes me wish I was young again! 😎🤘☠️

[@aliassmithandjones9453]

I went from briggs and stratton powered mini bikes to a CR480. Talk about a steep learning curve!

[@ralphtieleman4950]

Maico 501 .

[@LarryMusgrave]

Same. I was a KX500 open vet rider. My 2001 was the last one, now in my 50's it's all faded memories. Trying to explain a 2 smoker 500 to today's kids.... I just can't convey the danger and insanity in a way that they can comprehend. God, I loved those big bastards!

[@Steve-1269]

@@LarryMusgrave yeah, a friend of mine severely underestimated his dad's KX500 and within a few minutes of his first time on it he broke his back and bit off tongue...those 500s are no joke!!

[@Steve-1269]

Check out Kaplan America. They are a museum but also build and sell bikes. They have some of the most badass 500s in the world. I've been telling a bunch of people about them since I found their channel. You definitely won't be disappointed. Also, 50s isn't too old..depending on your physical health, you can still get out there, ride and have fun. I've seen races that have a 65 and over vet class.

[@Bryan-vr9mr]

Every one of these videos is making me wish I could get on my YZ490 and ride! One of the things you said about your 500 sure rang true - those big 500's can bite you hard if you lose control! That's actually why I can't get on my 490 at the moment - nearly 3 weeks ago, I was riding on a muddy mountain trail - and my throttle cable failed and stuck. That engine wound up, lost traction in the mud, and threw me hard to the ground. I hit hard enough it launched my camera off my helmet, and bent up my handlebar clamps. My arm, leg, chest and back are going to take some weeks to heal up! Thanks for doing these videos though - they give me something to watch in recovery!

[@999lazer]

Hope you heel up quick Bryan. Thanks for watching

[@bobdog4379]

Hi Bryan.. I wheelied over backwards on one way back in 1991, spent the next 6 weeks p**$ing in a bottle cos I compressed my spine and couldn't move. Still I would have another one in an instant. My first was a TM400 (aged 15 ) and I have loved the big strokers ever since. Get well soon buddy.

[@dr.hugog.hackenbush9443]

And that kids, is what a killswitch is for...

[@mike_oe]

I got my hands on a last gen, factory tuned/set up KX500. What surprised me the most was the low end torque. I could get stuck in wrong (high) gear and the bike didn’t really care about it. It just did it’s thing and pulled me out of trouble. Ran it a couple of years and even managed to get it street legal for enduro...😊

[@BairdBoysAdventures]

i imagine this kit would be really good on the YZ250X, the 500 would be really great with the taller 4th and 5th gears, awsome work to all those involved, you guys do amazing work and are true enthusiasts of the sport.

[@gregducati999]

And a lightning kit so we can dualsport it

[@montycrain5783]

100 mph +

[@davidrockey7190]

Yeah my friend had a YZ250 white and blue I rode that once and then YZ 125 don't get me wrong but I'll take that YZ 125 any day over that big daddy what a bike 🚲

[@elcincero321]

You can get the YZ250X WIDE Transmission and install it with bo issues.

[@billgoodwin8742]

I have a beautiful YZ250X that I would love to do this conversion on it.

[@levisylvester]

One of my favorite bike builds! The looks, the sound the power... Everything fits! Can't wait for the next vids. Gonna be great!

[@999lazer]

Thank you. We're loving the build so far and have some really cool things coming up with the bike. Cheers Max

[@jonnyretro2235]

Love the heavy 500 bark! Defo a market for this type of machine.

[@999lazer]

Couldn't agree more!

[@roadkingryder6685]

I'm 68 now but back in the 80's I rode a YZ 465 in the open senior class. What a torque monster that bike was. Wish I had kept it and my 72 H2 Kawasaki triple. Those 2 stroke ring dings were a blast to ride and were the ultimate adrenaline rush. That 500 looks like big fun. Definitely not for the timid!

[@jefferynorris3898]

Did you happen to live in nc and sell it in the mid 90s ? If so I'm the one that bought it lol

[@roadkingryder6685]

@@jefferynorris3898 No. I'd just moved to Macon GA in 88 and sold to a young kid I worked with. No telling where it is now. Was the one you bought yellow and have #42 on the side covers and do you still have it?

[@Firehawk-205]

Im 54 & !!! Long live the 2-stroke. Thats all the RM's / YZ's/ CR's & KX's had back in the day. I had a 78 RM-80, brother had a 82 RM 125Z. I grew up on 2-Stokes. My brothers friend had an 77 RM 370 than an RM 400. Dude name Rick had CR500. Never forget the smell and sound. . . .nothing like it! Friend Jon had Suzuki Quadzilla 500!! Thank You for posting this, brought me back to the good ol days. We all used "Golden Spectro" 2-stoke oil w/Sunoco premium 240 gas which was purple.

[@camarojeff9786]

I like how your mechanic decided to change that needle position for more fuel and to keep the bike cooler. I also liked the fact that you discussed gearing. I still have my 1987 CR500, it’s over bored and it’s a beast.

[@camarojeff9786]

You can change that needle position and the gear and it will change everything. Getting that needle to high will definitely make it run hot, but it will make the bike much more snappy.

[@PCG2022]

When I was about 15 I was privileged to ride a Maico 490! Ever since that day I always wanted a CR500. I've owned many Cr250's in my lifetime but never had the splish for the 500. I think this machine looks and sounds amazing!! Bet the power and torque is ridiculous! I did have a crf450r thumper and the gear ratio with fuel injection was nice but the sound and smell would never compare to a 2 smoker! Great video.

[@davidjackson7051]

I'm 69 raced my Elsinore 250 back in the 70,s I thought I was King of the motoX track seems like evolution of MX just took off after that so much competition it was fast n furious I was lucky to experience those days ❤

[@craighoffman6876]

Cool that it has a balance shaft. The 500 I had back in 90s vibrated hard enough to numb my feet and hands at higher revs. My solution was to gear it to the moon and keep the revs down. 500 two strokes like to pull a load and it actually was faster that way, putting the power down and moving the bike forward much better instead of spinning the tire, getting sideways and running out of revs. I lived in Southern CA when I had my 500. Long downhills out in desert were "interesting" as it would go down the hill on closed throttle and eventually load enough fuel into the cylinder to "pop" which sent the bike forward. I got around that by setting it to have no idle. A side benefit of this is it cleaned up the extreme bottom end running some. My 500, being a desert trail riding/racing bike, was geared to go almost 100 MPH as it wore 15/42 sprockets. 1st was tall in the technical stuff, but other than that, with it's stupid amount of midrange power, the bike pulled that tall gearing beautifully off road. The 500 was awesome in the sand, going straight and true at speed like a freight train, it's heavy spinning crank help there I think. In the end, the 500 was a crude beast, but it was in it's glory ripping up a long rocky desert hill in 3rd gear, front end alot much of the time. Still riding at 60, on an '18 KTM 300 XC and I love it. 500s had their time, but sometimes too much is just too much - LMAO! My 300 rips just fine, and it turns and handles in a nimble way that the old 500, with it's big heavy crank, can only dream of. My 300 has a top speed of 88 MPH with it's 6 speeds and stock gearing, so it's ultimate eye watering top end is not far off the old 500. 1st gear is much more usable in tight stuff. Modern 300cc 2T's are God's gift to dirt bike riders... Super cool project though, I would happily take a spin on that 500!

[@motofish312]

500cc rule 1. Shift up. Whatever gear you think that you would normally use, shiftbup one at least, maybe 2 if it can pull it. The loading tames the powerband and you get yo use more of it in a higher gear and gets ahold of more traction if it's there especially in sand. Otherwise, you blow off the tire and going fast takes way more effort. Loading and throttle control are the keys to going fast on a 500 for any period of time. Wait until you get on hard pack. It's a whole different ball game and tire choice is crucial!.....

[@kyzor-sosay6087]

Good advice,most people don’t understand how to ride big bore two strokes.They’re used to the revs of small bore.Big bores like those big gears.

[@eddieanthonisse605]

It’s a beast, I love the old white/red color scheme. I think she’ll be doing about 60-63hp on the dyno.

[@999lazer]

You'll find out in the next episode;) Thanks for watching Eddie

[@jasperracingmotorsports7232]

@@999lazer I’d say 62 at crank 56 rw

[@mxcoolman]

At the crank it will have something in that area. At the rear wheel probably 50 to 54 ish. I think kaplin got about 54 rear wheel HP on a gas gas BRC they turned. All dynos read differently, though. So it could show lower or higher.

[@TheAyoubh]

How much does a modified yz 250 make on rwhp?

[@zgleuwefeu]

@@TheAyoubh 47 rw for a 250 YZ

[@mikelee9886]

That's the best sounding YZ I've ever heard. Definitely going to be looking into building one of these.

[@zgleuwefeu]

Very happy to see the beast on an MX track. Hope we'll see it for a long time in your videos!

[@999lazer]

Thank you. We have lots of cool things planned with this bike. Cheers Max

[@bloodzero69]

This would be an awesome addition to the Red Bull Straight Rhythm this weekend in California, USA. I'm sure Travis Pastrana would bring his RMZilla if you contacted him. You have time to put it together and the fans would eat it up.

[@jojolloren3642]

500cc 2 stroke beast on 250cc frame and suspension is awesome dream come true

[@kevinarmbrester8572]

502 strokes are some of the most wonderful sounding motorcycles ever made the more the better

[@morley3810]

I live in Alberta Canada, a couple hours south of Calgary where BRC is located. I love that a local company is building this stuff, and I am really curious to see what the long term reliability will be like.

[@999lazer]

We're so lucky that guys like BRC are still developing 2 strokes. To do what they do is pretty mind blowing for a small company. The quality of the components was top notch and our kit was just a prototype. Thanks for watching.

[@morley3810]

@@999lazer I bought a new YZ250X in 2016 and other than pistons and routine maintenance I really haven't done anything to it, they are such a reliable proven platform. In a couple years when it's time to tear it down for a bottom end rebuild I can see myself doing a complete rebuild on the bike and add the BRC500 kit if it proves to be a good unit. Not really cheaper than buying another new bike, but way cooler!

[@brentscott5359]

I'm an hour north of Calgary. May make a road trip just for kicks and giggles.

[@Kevinhazenberg]

A couple prototypes are going in to snow bikes for testing so will see lots of hours and hard use!

[@DennisMerwood-xk8wp]

@@999lazer My Yamaha 1983 IT490K was the best off-road bike I ever owned. If BRC was to release a modern version again today - they could not build enough of them. This 40-year old design would be as good, or better than, any of the modern 4-stroke Enduro bikes. 280lbs wet. And $300 for a rebore and new piston every winter. How much is a modern 4-stroke engine cost to rebuild again? $2,000?

[@nunyabusiness4510]

Nearly 50 and have ridden every bike conceivable- nothing beats a CR500 2 STROKE WIDOWMAKER. THEY WERE THE ABSOLUTE BEAST!

[@scottyd2262]

You guys have nailed it ! The YZilla looks and sounds amazing ! I love the nod to the YZM (one of my favourite MX bikes of all time) 😲

[@999lazer]

Thanks Scotty, glad you like it and thanks for watching :)

[@scottyd2262]

@@BANSHEEBOY_1974 What the %^&* was that comment all about ? You do know what a YZM500 is don't ya? I'm guessing no. You've just embarrassed yourself with your comment. I'd delete it if l were you.

[@scottyd2262]

@@BANSHEEBOY_1974 What a strange reply.. Yamaha haven't stopped making 2 stroke mx bikes. Keyboard warrior LMAO ! 🤡

[@milbose]

reminds me of my 1992 KX 500 , except that WAS a beast. Terrible brakes, terrible suspension, weighed a ton and yet had more power than any motoX had any business having. LOL But it was fun!! Great build and thanks for the memories of terror.

[@999lazer]

Haha no problem, thanks for watching

[@dr.hugog.hackenbush9443]

A '92 KX with *BAD* suspension?? Great suspension was a hallmark of that year! But yeak the front brake sucked untill like '94.

[@69Fancylicker]

64 years old was racing a 465z Suzuki back in 1981 but this bike looks and sounds absofuckinlutely amazing

[@jerryfarmer5989]

Wow and here I thought no 2 strokes were ever being made again. Flat out love the high revving wicked quick fun as hell bikes!! Bring back the Elsinore!!

[@jerryhyland1554]

Yamaha never stopped and there are many other brands building them such as KTM ,Husky , GasGas and several others. Updated ones with electric start and mapping switch to change power band for different riding conditions.

[@garyeinfeldt5436]

They figured out quickly that we the consumers love the 2 stroke bikes !!! And "Money Talks" ! Lol

[@deep6483]

Ex kx 500 rider that motor in that modern frame would fix all the problems us old guys had,but it still takes a finesse and respect on how you ride one,they bite back nasty when you least expect it if you get over confident

[@not12b4got]

Hence their designation as widow makers..I remember years ago I rode one, my friend had one…took it for a spin, loved it. Got off my friend asked me how does it feel to ride a bike that killed the last owner…got off said not for me…bought a 600xr instead. Much heavier bike however more usable power, was like a train for hill climbing. Would climb anything as long as you could hold on…that was the hard part…

[@deep6483]

The 500 two stroke death machine,the only thing that could pull a sailor or your best friend off your sister

[@N4CR]

I've ridden some pretty serious 2t road bikes (heavily modded) and this looks like one hell of a lot of fun. Glad to see other people making such things available and I wish that canadian company well!

[@mikehatch1967]

I had a 1987 YZ 250 2 stroke and my best friend had one just like it same year! We sure had a ton of fun! I loved that bike

[@kennywills8797]

Gives 'steering with the rear wheel' an extreme meaning ! 😄

[@Neomet010]

One more old big Open class racer. Ran Maicos back in the day. Finished up with a 490. Terrifyingly fast. Still makes me smile just thinking of it. Well done gents!

[@peterbalac1915]

My freind bought a brand new Alpha one maico I think it was £1,800 at the time I had to be guarantor for him, we put it in the back of my work truck looking at it in every shop window we passed. One hell of a beast sorted out the men from the boys 2 seasons later maico went tits up you couldn't give it away if only we knew then what we know now!!!

[@Neomet010]

@@peterbalac1915 They tended to do die inglorious deaths. I had a 400 that literally had the cylinder split completely in half horizontally. Not a good day. Ha!

[@DennisMerwood-xk8wp]

@@peterbalac1915 Maico - Breako; is what we used to say LOL Peter, my 1983 Yamaha IT490K was the best off-road bike I ever owned. If Yamaha was to release it again today - dealers could not get enough of them. in 1983 US$2,249 This 40-year old design would be as good, or better than, any of the modern 4-stroke Enduro bikes. And $300 for a rebore and new piston every winter. How much is a modern 4-stroke engine cost to rebuild again? $2,000?

[@maxrpm2215]

Looks like a modern YZ500M. Good work the slots in the side panels give it the M look.

[@999lazer]

I think that was my favourite little touch to pay homage to the original YZM :) Thanks for watching

[@lawrencefoster2120]

I've never rode the YZ. I just learned about the tuning fork and the piano.

[@paddyoconnor5362]

Looks amazing, sounds awesome and hauls ass !! Love it . Brilliant video as always max 👍🤙

[@999lazer]

Thanks Paddy, appreciate your comment as always :)

[@jamesbillington9280]

Had a 1983 Honda CR480, I can only imagine how much more powerful the YZ500 is. If you've never ridden 500 two stroke, I can assure you at first blip of the throttle your arms will feel like they want to come out of their sockets if you're not prepared. Glad to see open class bikes coming back, they are thrilling to ride and race.

[@yousus2121]

If it doesn't work out for you, I'll take it in my garage. Just sayin. 🤣 Looks amazing.

[@999lazer]

Haha Thank you for your offer :) Thanks for watching

[@jamaquelreynolds58]

I want dibs 🥲

[@rickrexrode6835]

JUST turned 55 and have had my CR 500r for almost 30 years now ,and its the most favorite thing i own and who ever ends up with it once im done ,dead and it still in tacked will need some special inside knowledge about my one off modifications when it comes to do some ruit

[@richardpickering2452]

1982 YZ490J was my beast, Never ever buzzed on a bike like i did on that totally bonkers machine. Oh to be 18 and fearless again :))

[@ScalporeRocco]

in 1979 there was already the 490? my brother raced with a 465 in 1982 and took a 490 in 1984

[@richardpickering2452]

@@ScalporeRocco It was a YZ490 J - my mistake it was 1982.... air cooled,monoshock, drum brakes, 4 speed gearbox.

[@74stevedc]

Awesome bike had a 1987 490 bored to 520 was a former race bike. It was fast then I tried a built KX 500 you could definitely feel the difference the kx was definitely faster. Brings back old memories I'm sure that bike I'd faster and better in every way loved watching it rip!

[@999lazer]

Thanks for watching

[@wisecampmotorcycles8258]

What a beast! Looked like you were having a ball on that thing Max. Sounds amazing 👍. Looking forward to seeing a lot more of the YZILLA.

[@999lazer]

Plenty more to come :)

[@paddyodonovan7576]

yzilla vs meg is needed

[@jacobhouseworth5132]

It's about time someone really got into a 500. Most videos are always low rpm and droney. Thanks for the satisfaction 👌

[@mxcoolman]

The BRC motors don't have the same bottom end grunt as a CR 500. It looks and sounds very ridable, dare I say tame, for a bigbore. Looks lovely in white with gold rims!

[@999lazer]

We will all find out as we have a video against a CR500 coming soon. Thanks for watching.

[@jasperracingmotorsports7232]

Has a cr 500 crank

[@SteveBuffel]

@@jasperracingmotorsports7232 It's a BRC crank designed for the YZM500 that uses a CR500 connecting rod and piston.

[@specforged5651]

Nothing like a biscuit color plug! I need one of these for the dunes. Ohhhhh the sound! This brings back memories and I’m only 40. Let the bunny humpers think they’re saving the planet and we’ll bring back 2 strokes to the mainstream. That’s why I love my snowmobile so much. Turbo two stroke power, theres nothing like it.

[@paulsnelgrove3127]

I am 67 and still have my 1981 YZ 465 g after over 40 years of riding a 500 cc open bike my advice is. It's been said already but l am going to be cruel, it's not a 125 cc change up a few gears and get the tourqe of the machine to the ground. You guys were just blowing the power away in wheel spin, be brave and hang on. It's a whole new world out there when she grips the track. Full throttle 2 gear starts and change up far far sooner than you are used to doing with a 125 cc you have power and torque there you haven't tapped into. When she wants to go over backwards in 4th you know you have the power down. You can over rev these machines, if it delivers anything like the YZ 465 and you are not getting the best OT of the machine. I raced 125,250 and 500 open class. I would never swap the 500 for anything less, 1 hour moto,s back then, last man standing, it ain't easy just getting to the finish line. We ran my YZ 465 in the Pony Express here in Australia new out of the crate, run in of course for 8 hours with 600 starters. The only YZ465 to finish beating the Australian Champions at the time, they rode a hot 175 cc machine because its light. 😮 It makes me smile when you say your bike is the first 500 cc to take to the track. Can it beat the legend that is the YZ465 g twin leading shoe drum front brake and all. I say not the you guys ride it, good to see you dipping your toes in the water, it's a whole new world revisited, good luck.

[@Croft315]

Big bore ftw. Fun! Looking forward to more sorting in future vids.

[@olihagspiel5415]

I have only a YZ 360 with the Ohlins Kit , but this bike beats almost everyting in look, sound and performance !!!! Thumbs Up !!

[@Sonoknow]

Thanks Wulf Sports!

[@arthurdunga345]

sounds great man two strokes forever keep up the good work

[@adamsowers8957]

What an absolute beast of a dirt bike. It sounds so good!

[@JerryLee..]

2 Stroke!!!!!!!!!!!! I grew up watching Kenny The King Roberts riding and racing the Yamaha 400 series era! What a blast!

[@jannep6772]

Very nice and agressive sounding bike! 😎👍 It revs quite high for a 500 so I would expect it to have 60 RWHP and MASSIVE broad torque curve. I can’t wait for the next video when you will dyno this beast.

[@doppies2000]

he rides it like a 125. he overrefs it.

[@bigboreaddicts3484]

Hope to have one in the fleet some day! Here supporting our Big Bore Addict family! Excellent video as usual Max!

[@999lazer]

Thank you

[@yeti8it396]

I used to have a YZ 490 we bored to abt 500cc that kicked out tons of torque and HP . with fmf and fox suspension it was a TOTAL rocketship !!!

[@EkonRekon]

Run 16 or 20:1 always. Suzuki internal tests show significant hp gains with more oil sealing the rings upping compression. Leaner fuel mixture also burns better with proper jetting. Don't worry about spoog.

[@njmxjunkie3128]

I don’t agree with 20:1 however I do agree more oil = more power

[@grownman880]

Dont listen to this guy

[@jpesicka999]

32:1 using Maxima K2 (full syn)

[@EkonRekon]

@@grownman880 you should try it before you run your mouth

[@EkonRekon]

@@njmxjunkie3128 it's a carefully hidden secret. Suzuki had significant hp gains peaking at 16:1

[@jamesdiamond1582]

It's set up perfectly for my size 13 🤔 Thing is a beast the sound reminds me of my 98 yz 250 with a long rod kit and double head gasket with a spacer just a torque monster out of the hole🤘👍🎥🤑🤯🍻

[@raywebb7501]

My 94 W R is set up like that as well! And it hauls ass

[@dano4572]

THE FIRST CHECK-UP ON THE COLOR OF THE PLUG SAID YOU AINT RIDIN IT HARD ENOUGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GOOOOOOO!!!

[@stevedouglas1654]

Here in the United States mXrevival is building a 2003 YZ500 with the same motor in a steel frame. He’s giving it away in March 2023 👍🔥😍

[@michaeltaylor8835]

2 strokes definitely have a huge fan base

[@TheStinkysteve]

The late 80’s Husqvarna 500 was such a sick bike

[@jjvv7578]

J'ai possédé une 480 cr 1981. 4 vitesses +170 km/h . C'est mon meilleur souvenir . Ces motos sont vous transportent dans un autre monde. I owned a 480 cr 1981. 4 speeds +170 km/h. It's my best memory. These motorcycles are transporting you to another world.

[@thatguyslush5779]

Sounds AMAZING!!

[@999lazer]

it sure does, thanks for watching

[@joecameron3512]

Awesome bike this is what they should sound like I miss 2 strokes awesome build

[@kevinmee3501]

Great video Max, excellent work from Shawn, Roland, and yourself, that thing is a monster and I think it will eat a cr500, but we will see in one of you're later videos.

[@999lazer]

We shall see, thanks for watching Kevin

[@stuartjamieson2427]

About time 2 strokes came back. Used to ride the old maico 440 and rm 400. With lethal power bands. Now they were dangerous

[@Scythe_Voltage]

Imagine Yamaha starts making 500cc two strokes for like 12,000$, they could make huge profit and people would gladly buy them

[@hexagonosaurus5848]

No, nobody would buy them. Thats why they dont make them anymore. Welcome to the real world, these bikes are a small niche. You can get brand new 500+cc Maico 2 strokes but not a lot of people do.

[@stuntzbelowzero7255]

Would definitely buy a YZilla 500 🤟 🤟

[@stuntzbelowzero7255]

Would definitely buy a YZilla 500 🤟 🤟

[@stuntzbelowzero7255]

@@hexagonosaurus5848 Its the brand and make, surely not much out there wants "Maico"

[@hexagonosaurus5848]

@@stuntzbelowzero7255 Thats just shows how clueless of a brand clout chaser you are. Maicos run rings round these Frankenstein "builds" . With a warranty also 🤡

[@montycrain5783]

Had a 1989 Cr-500 for years, like most 500s ride it a gear higher and let the Tourqe eat. It has 20 more ft lbs than a 450. If you try to scream it you’re doing it wrong and will hurt yourself. Torque is your friend, a Good Big Friend. When you get it right it will sound like you’re putting around. Go by the watch. Remember you can also use heavier flywheel weights to dampen the power until you get use to it.

[@jasperracingmotorsports7232]

Waiting on 2 kits as we speak

[@bbarker5766]

Love this in so many ways but mostly because it's a big bore 2 stroke!!!!

[@MajorTendonitis]

Nothing like the bark of a 2 stroke 500❤

[@justinsteffen796]

I had a 89 YZ 490, I loved it. It had spongey, brakes could described the same with suspention especially forks. though I bought it used and could have revamped both issues but did not). Honestley I truley learned how to just ride it on one wheel, and it worked out well. Anyhow I am in on a new 2023 model. If the publisher is reading this I would love and be very interested in a WR model. I suspect I am not the only one at all either. They had a lower 1st 2nd year thank you 3rd was about the same 4th and 5th were definitely taller with a heavier flywheel which made for a great trail/desert bike. Anyhow that's off do you guys for that build, And thanks for the info Keep doing what you do. the previous bike I mentioned ( Which I still wish I had) A good soild powerplant for sure. Throw in great suspension and breaks to boot and I'm definitely in. It's been said that there's less than a 100 people oh in the world that can ride A 450 to a is true potential maybe even just a handful I would say the number goes exponentially less with this bike. I want one though and I will have 1 because they make certain things easier hill climbs, life, and that 500 2 stroke smile( There is a certain respect and dance that needs to go on with rider and bike as I know some people out there would say good luck.). I would love and can't wait to see a WR version come out. Wide ratio gears for those that don't know, Think lower 1st and 2nd gear and and a taller 4th 5th maybe 6th these days!!! Also a heavier flywheel. Anyhow thanks for the review.

[@ricecrash5225]

I raced here in Australia with Peter Melton, Chad Reed, Andrew McFarlane all ridden 500 2 strokes. The 125/250 categories generally had faster lap times. Only so much power to the ground and heavy.

[@rustymiller194]

Nothing like the sound of a 2 stroke…….👍👍👍👍👍

[@tyfrederick6904]

I got a 1983 cr480 that I ride every chance I get I absolutely love riding big bore two-strokes there's nothing better in dirt biking to ride

[@Spacesprocketz]

I grew up riding z50r's and XR 100's. I went to stay with my Grand Parents in Ohio for a summer and a neighbor had a CR 500, I would have to lean that beast against a tree of the garage to get it started. That compression is something serious!

[@DoctorMotorcycle]

I'm sure many will bring this up, but I'd be curious to see what this bike puts down on the dyno, in addition to how the shape of the torque curve looks. Kaplan America dyno'd his CR500 vs. a '22 CRF450 and they both put out 52HP at the tire +/- a half HP. 4 Stroke technology has come a long way, especially in the past 10 years. It's a weird world where a modern 250F with a Pipe and Ecu tune is only a couple HP down from an early 00's 250 2 stroke.

[@999lazer]

Thanks for watching. The dyno run will be shown in the next episode. Cheers Max

[@racebiketuner]

@@999lazer Thanks for letting us know. I'm very curious to see how this compares to a CR500.

[@justrockon426]

Wow, my dad told me about how back in the 70's to 90's 500cc and even such beasts as 700cc two strokes were somewhat prevalent, and how it was dangerous as inexperienced riders would pick these and crash HARD. much like 450s nowdays, but back then they had drum brakes and suspension was nowhere near whats on bikes nowadays. Anyways now that handling has much improved it makes more sense ahah

[@oshitt1]

55 years old CR250 and 500, 250 was hard to hold onto, 500 was impossible way to much for me 3rd gear crazy power a mistake would leave you 30 feet off the track in the bushes. Woe brings back some nightmares of many crazy crashes. Respect for anybody that rides that bike. Great bike for the trails though, power on tap, for the track no thank you.

[@519scott8]

Heck fricken ya brother good work

[@colinstewart1432]

Take the Yzilla500 to Guy Martins' track & let him have a blast. Get on it lads. Sounds absolutely bangin' . Brilliant job. Really enjoyed the journey on this build.

[@misterbig911ktm7]

One year ago rebuild me a friend a 1993 Yamaha YZ 250 2-stroke in Chesterfield design... but YZILLA is heavy metal!!!

[@garyeinfeldt5436]

Back in the 90's an interviewer asked Damon Bradshaw with Yamaha, which class did he like better to ride in, I loved his answer. He said both but you can't compare the two because on the 250 it was a matter of how fast could he keep the bike going on the track and with the big bore it's a matter of how Fast do I really want to go 😅

[@andyexall8214]

Love watching these videos! I raced an early 80s YZ465 in SE AMCA, sadly went down to a 250 rather than up to the 490 afterwards & never really got on with it. I'd love a go on the YZilla just to bring back the memories of huge powerful two strokes, it'd probably kill me though 🤣

[@btchhopperou812]

A buddy had a 465... Insane bike. It got me itching bad for a 490... I ended up picking up the IT490 because of the 5 spd gearbox, and the lights were a big bonus too. I'm sure that the power curve had to be different between them but with a little port-smoothing, rejetting and a pipe, it woke up a lot from stock form. 1 thing I loved was 5th gear... It was a big jump but MAN, that thing had a top speed that nothing could match. Really a great trail bike, but I missed a true MX suspension package. Great fun with enough torque on the low end to bail you out of almost any misjudgement.

[@ivojara]

I am 56, and I remember the Montesa Cappra 414 2 stroke, I would advise a wider rear tire, it will improve the handling a lot.

[@krazy2066]

I love my 86 YZ 490 popped out to a 520 starts first kick n not one of my buddies who ride ever asked to try it scares the hell outta them wide open BRAPPPP

[@ginti4725]

Dear Santa, I've been so good this year, and there's this bike I've seen........

[@999lazer]

haha brilliant, but have you been good enough ?

[@pbmachines972]

Dam dude Kaplan🇺🇸wants one you know he does🤟

[@greggo7978]

When I weighed 150lbs I rode a punched out kx 500.1st,2nd and 3rd gear were unpredictable to put it mildly. 4th gear was unusable unless you had a wide open field,no trees,and a unnecessary urge to ride up on the handle bars.After 4th gear it would still want to flip you over backwards when you hit PowerBand even with a rounded off knobby in a foot of pig shit.Prolonged sessions in the scream Rev usually left my hands and testicle numb from the violent vibration produced when you pinned it.Never the less that bike was a absolute blast,,,for me anyways.Not one person I let ride that bike would get past 3rd gear half throttle. Obviously they were smarter than I was realizing that the feeling of fear was felt for a good reason .I somehow replaced that common sense with a need to continuously endanger my life and not even realizing it.Concussions stitches ,torn ligaments, and a couple small bones broken didn't make me any smarter.Eventually after blowing it up and rebuilding it three times I found that a paper rout couldn't fix her any more. Parted her out in the end,probably a good thing because I've lived to see fifty one years old.No smarter now though,instead I raced motocross on a yz250 and KTM xsf 250 .still got both of them and my ability to function almost properly. Wouldn't change a thing,it's who I am.There is something so satisfying about knowing you might or might not leave the track the same way you arrived,but when the gate drops you enter a whole different reality.Its just you and the bike and some invisible need to see what your capable of I guess. Now that I don't race anymore because "dad" happened.My oldest races and he's nuts.I mean it,the kids off his hinges but he loves it so turn him loose. I calmed down now in my old age and bought a honda cbr.lol Not sure if this was a wise decision but man oh man is that thing fun to ride. Bless you all who understand the two wheel life.May you all have fun and stay safe. Or at least a reasonably acceptable similarly of the last part.

[@dano4572]

LUV IT!!!! MY LAST BIG BORE WAS A 1985 490 SPIDER MAICO,,,,,,WHAT A FREAKIN BIKE THAT WAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@jasonfalcon4052]

That’s the coolest YZ 500 ever I’m the one that named the RMZilla being I said in 19 that the Quadzilla 500 would be perfect! To bad it’s to wide and next thing I heard was RM Zilla and now the YZ Zilla. ❤️🏁😎

[@R2D2_C3PO]

Great job guys!

[@jpmorgen5726]

If there was ever a bike that needs Redline Lightweight Shockproof gear oil, this is it! I am not connected with the company in any way, but I have had great results using the oil in the gear box, even helps the clutch! Use it!

[@999lazer]

Thanks for the info!

[@tylerpopken3479]

That’s thing is so cool

[@999lazer]

Thanks Tyler :)

[@DylanTown4326]

I’m starting out on a kx85 and freakin love all 22hp it has… I want a 125 and a 250 but gradually work up to the 250…. One day I’ll ride a 500 and then consider getting one. They’re an untamed beast

[@nate2838]

That bike seems amazing! I rode a 450 from 05-07. Absolutely loved the power of the 03 CRF450, the 06 CRF felt weak by comparison. This YZM machine sounds like it would be an absolute blast to ride!