Full Description
SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED
An outstandingly original matching numbers UK Yamaha FS1-E with two owners.
MODEL HISTORY
Launched in the UK in 1973, the Yamaha FS1-E (E to denote England) was seen as the saviour of many 16-year-olds who felt cruelly curtailed by a change in licencing legislation introduced in 1973. Nobody could have predicted the success to follow with the FS1-E quickly becoming Yamaha’s top selling bike in the UK within three months of launch, and the affectionate nickname ‘Fizzy’ becoming firmly adopted.
EQUIPMENT
Pressed steel tubular backbone type frame, telescopic front forks, naked spring type rear cushion, Yamaha Autolube, primary coupled kick-starter, chrome mudguards front and rear, chrome side repeaters, two black adjustable mirrors, Nippon Seiki speedometer, odometer, turn signal switch, headlight switch, neutral indicator, horn, large twin seat with assist strap, rear footrests, fuel valve with reserve, steering lock, helmet lock. Dealer accessories; Mud flaps.
EXTERIOR
A desirable very last of the pedal arrangement model, this example is amazingly preserved. The Space Blue colour scheme is still first paint and the decals have never been replaced. The smooth sided tank without screw-on badges does show some aging and the black and white speed blocks design on the tank and side panels in the style of Kenny Roberts TZ Yamaha racing bikes is in excellent condition. The plastic side panels, a first on this model year, are not cracked or scuffed and the black tubular frame still has E11 sticker and matching frame number visible. The chrome is in good condition with a mirror shine and the grips and pedal rubbers are genuine Yamaha items with the logo visible. One rear view mirror is damaged and the genuine original Yamaha seat with white logo still visible has had a repair. Lights, indicators and horn all function and the original supplying dealer number plate is attached. A hugely collectable bike and a remarkable survivor that instantly became a teenage cult classic.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
This is a matching numbers UK bike with the engine and frame numbers being identical. A rare FS1-E model incorporating Yamaha’s new Autolube system providing a separate oil tank injecting oil into the induction port by a pump controlled by the throttle position and engine speed, thus no longer needing to mix the oil in the petrol tank. A single cylinder 2-stroke engine which has a 49cc displacement to produce 3.1hp at 5000rpm and 4.3lb-ft of torque at 4500rpm. Aging to the engine casing is visible but in-keeping with a beautifully original bike, even the starting warning sticker remains attached! The four speed gearbox and clutch works perfectly and although fully operational this example has been on display for many years and remains a display bike requiring full recommissioning.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The chromium plated wheel rims are unrestored and display outer rim stampings and have a wonderful shine. Correctly sized 2.50-17 front and rear tyres retain excellent tread and good rubber condition. Waterproof-Dustproof 110mm diameter drum brakes perform exactly as intended.
HISTORY FILE
An incredible history file with only two owners from new! Registered on the 7th May 1977, this UK example is a matching numbers bike with identification markers clearly visible, legible and un-tampered. Supplied by J.Kersey & Son Ltd in Great Yarmouth to Mr Anthony William Griggs of Ipswich for the sum of £295, this bike remained in Ipswich when sold to the only other owner, Mr Parker in 2004 for £900. Mr Parker was thrilled to find such an original example with all paperwork, old MOT certificates, spare keys and service log booklet so snapped it up to form part of his motorbike display. This unmolested example is the exception to the many dubiously restored offerings and remains true to its build in 1977. Amazing.
HPI Clear.