Post Listing Update: This TZ750 did not meet reserve at $40,000.
Yamaha’s TZ750 is one of the legends of factory and privateer motorcycle racing. Cycle World called it one of the six greatest motorcycles of all time, and part of that honor came from the fact that a TZ750 won the Daytona 200 nine years in a row. Now, not all of them can be winners – this placed 23rd out of 80 in the ’74 Daytona 200. But who cares, that’s still more motorcycle than 99% of riders can handle! Plus, this example stands out as it is supposedly from the first shipment of models to the US, and it’s just received an extensive 10 year restoration (while still in running, as raced condition).
This example (VIN: 4W1-000217) was originally sold to a racer out of Kansas City, Missouri named Mike Ninci. Over time, this bike received some modifications like an reinforced and lengthened swingarm, braced frame, and increased shock angle. The exhaust was apparently made by Kel Carruthers himself for Mr. Ninci, and the design proved so effective that Yamaha adopted it themselves. These modifications were left in place, as were a few cosmetic touches. The bodywork and tank were repainted in the original colors, however. The seller says that “every available bearing, seal, gasket, washer and wear item was replaced with genuine Yamaha NOS parts.” and that a used set of pistons and rings will be included for break-in if you actually want to run this bike. The motor has been setup for long term display so the seller will include but not install the chain to “prevent temptation.”
The seller says that this is the 88th of 95 bikes that was initially shipped over to meet AMA requirements for the Daytona 200. This bike was just 2 months when it finished 23rd, and Mike was actually leading the ’75 event at one point (picture below):
There’s a lot to like about this bike and the seller includes a lot of information. Find this TZ750 for sale in Fayetteville, Arkansas with bidding up to $40,000 and the reserve not yet met