Beginning in 1970, Yamaha produced its first 350cc 2-stroke motorcycle: the coveted R5. It ushered in a new wave of 2-strokers, which featured the fast and furious RD350 and RD400 models.
Long-time Mikes XS customer Scott Pickett (Colorado) decided to flip this dusty ole R5 into his version of a 2-stroke Yamaha street tracker…and he did just that!
“It started out as a 1970 Yamaha R5, that was a barn find at best”, Pickett explains.
The entire front end – including triple trees, forks, brakes, and wheel – was sourced from an ’80s XS650. The steering stem was shortened 1/2″ to fit the R5 steering head, and then fitted with some upgraded taper roller bearings.
The engine was rebuilt from the cases up (new top-end, crank, and bearings), buttoned up with all new gaskets and seals. The front brake caliper was rebuilt and fitted with a new performance brake rotor.
Pickett opted to heavily modify the original R5 rear suspension, in favor of a shortened and narrowed Yamaha 700 Fazer swingarm, fitted with all-new 13 3/16″ Monza shocks.
He also custom-built all of the wiring with all Yamaha-style connectors. “It runs on a Dewalt 12V Lithium-Ion battery that sits in a custom receiver on the inner fender”, Pickett illustrates. “The inner fender was also a modified XS650 part!”
All LED lighting was installed to make this bike street legal. The electronic tachometer is a Pro Cycle piece that doesn’t spoil the looks with a dangling cable. All switches are hidden in the rear of the headlight box (except for the kill switch and horn switch) to maintain the minimalist flat tracker aesthetic.
“All of the work was performed in my home garage, except for the powder coating (as my oven is a bit too small!). I hope you enjoy seeing it as much as I have enjoyed building it and, maybe, it will inspire others to build something they can be proud of!”
Excellent build, Scott, and thanks for choosing Mikes XS to assist in the completion of this R5 resto-mod!
Mikes XS Parts List
Fork Damper Bolt Sealing Washers
Black Shock Absorbers (13 3/16″)
and various terminals and electrical connectors
