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 thrilling announcement that reverberated across the motocross and motorcycle enthusiast communities worldwide, Yamaha Motor Corporation has officially unveiled the 2026 Yamaha YZ500 2-Stroke – a special 70th Anniversary Edition that marks seven decades of groundbreaking innovation, elite racing heritage, and relentless engineering advancement.
The reintroduction of a high-performance 500cc 2-stroke machine is more than just a bold engineering move – it is a tribute to Yamaha’s enduring legacy and its passionate community of riders. Since the release of its first motorcycle, the YA-1, in 1955, Yamaha has pushed the boundaries of two-wheeled performance, style, and reliability. The 2026 YZ500 pays homage to that pioneering spirit while embracing modern technology to deliver a motorcycle that is as nostalgic as it is cutting-edge.
A Modern Beast with a Legendary Heart
The YZ500’s revival is a nod to the glory days of open-class 2-strokes, a class that once defined the brutal power and raw excitement of motocross racing. Designed for experienced riders seeking unfiltered performance, the 2026 model features a newly engineered 500cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke engine, tuned for explosive torque, refined throttle response, and unmatched high-RPM pull.
This is not merely a rehash of an old platform – Yamaha engineers have infused this machine with 21st-century advancements. The bike boasts an all-new aluminum bilateral beam frame, designed to maximize rigidity and agility while shedding weight. Pair this with state-of-the-art KYB suspension systems, and the YZ500 delivers confidence-inspiring control over the harshest terrain.
70th Anniversary Styling and Technology
What sets this edition apart visually is its exclusive livery that echoes Yamaha’s storied past. The 70th Anniversary YZ500 features a unique blue and white color scheme with retro graphics inspired by Yamaha’s most iconic factory racing bikes from the 1970s and ‘80s. Every detail, from the commemorative 70th badge to the special anodized components, exudes heritage and pride.
Yet, beneath its vintage aesthetic lies a wealth of contemporary technology. Riders will benefit from a digital CDI system for precise ignition timing, updated power valve controls, and a customizable power delivery map, accessible via Yamaha’s proprietary tuning app – a feature previously unheard of in 2-stroke models.
Built for Competition – Ready for the Spotlight
The YZ500 70th Anniversary Edition is designed for serious competition. With the combination of a featherweight chassis, unmatched power-to-weight ratio, and cutting-edge suspension, this machine is ready to dominate motocross tracks and off-road events. Early tests from pro riders and factory team insiders have already called the bike a “game-changer,” particularly for fans of raw 2-stroke power.
In keeping with its racing roots, Yamaha will be fielding select riders on the YZ500 in various exhibition races and possibly select AMA Pro Motocross events as a tribute to the sport’s heritage.
A Bold Statement to the Industry
Yamaha’s decision to reintroduce a 500cc 2-stroke in an era dominated by 4-strokes and electric alternatives is a bold one. It speaks to the brand’s commitment to offering riders diverse experiences and honoring the past while looking toward the future. The 2026 YZ500 2-Stroke 70th Anniversary Edition isn’t just a motorcycle – it’s a statement.
“This bike is about passion. It’s about remembering where we came from while continuing to innovate,” said Yamaha’s Senior Product Manager at the launch event. “The YZ500 is our gift to riders who grew up dreaming of this bike and to a new generation ready to discover what a true 2-stroke powerhouse feels like.”
Set to hit dealerships in late 2025 in limited quantities, the 2026 Yamaha YZ500 2-Stroke 70th Anniversary Edition is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases in modern motocross history. Collectors, racers, and thrill-seekers alike now have a new dream machine to chase – a perfect blend of nostalgia and next-level performance.