Yamaha XT500 ‘North Star’: A Timeless Icon Transformed by Deus Ex Machina

Fred North’s vision, brought to life by Jeremy Tagand, turns the classic 1981 Yamaha XT500 into the ultimate super single, blending vintage charm with modern performance.

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Certain motorcycles truly stand out as icons of their time, with only a select few maintaining their popularity and charm over the years. Yamaha’s XT500 is one such machine, cherished for its enduring appeal and the fond memories it evokes. 

Fred North, a longtime admirer of this classic Enduro bike, sought something more than a vintage ride. He turned to Jeremy Tagand, the chief builder at Deus Ex Machina’s House of Simple Pleasures in Sydney, Australia. 

Jeremy then transformed the 1981 Yamaha XT500 into a remarkable creation, potentially the ultimate super single. Thus, the ‘North Star’ project began, a complete transformation of the classic bike.

During the process, Jeremy’s first priority was to enhance the XT500’s handling. He incorporated modern suspension components from the Yamaha WR450F, customizing and refining them to fit the original frame. 

A polished alloy swingarm from a Kawasaki KLX250 and advanced YSS Hi/Lo piggyback shocks were added for superior performance. Custom Hahn billet hubs and Buchanan’s rims completed the wheel setup, paired with road-legal flat-track tyres.

The engine received a significant overhaul, guided by Carl Batey from Australia’s Cafe Racer. Upgrades included a high-compression piston, balanced crank, ported and flowed head, custom camshaft, oversized valves, and heavy-duty springs.

A high-flow oil pump and a new cooler managed the engine’s thermal load. Enhanced intake and exhaust systems, including a Keihin FCR 39mm carb and a custom SC-Project silencer, maximized performance. Modern electrical components, such as a rewound SR500 stator, digital ignition, and 12V conversion, supported an Xstart electric start kit.

The bike’s aesthetic was meticulously crafted, with a polished and freshly painted tank, solid black fenders, side covers, and frame. The final touch was a Kozo headlight in a JVB surround, blending classic form with modern function.

The build took Jeremy around 18 months, culminating in a machine that epitomizes a lifelong passion for the XT500 and stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and innovative design. The ‘North Star’ is not just a motorcycle; it is a Magnum Opus for all involved.