1972 Yamaha DT3 250

• Tax exempt. • MOT exempt. • ULEZ exempt. • V5 in my name.

At 53 years old, this is a very rare bike in the UK. It spent its life in New Mexico, USA, finally being imported and registered in the UK in 2018. The guy that registered and restored the bike (who I purchased it from) had the foresight to keep the sun-bleached paintwork – simply getting it lacquered to conserve it – which gives it a unique look.

The previous owner did a meticulous job of stripping and rebuilding the engine, along with the rest of the bike, from powder-coating the frame onwards. A full nut and bolt rebuild but he decided to keep its age ‘honest’ throughout, rather than a ‘make it look new’ restoration, re-using as many original parts as possible. As a result it shows its age in the nicest possible way, whilst running and riding as if it was new. I have a memory stick full of photos and videos of the rebuild so you can see exactly what was done and how he did it.

I acquired the bike in 2021 and have really enjoyed it. Admittedly, I’m a fair weather biker so haven’t put too many miles on it but I have done some long journeys and it has never missed a beat. I’ve ridden it on a few Distinguished Gentleman’s Rides too (see photos), a 60-mile round trip which it has taken in its stride each time. Everything works as it should and, unlike many two-strokes, it starts easily, first or second kick. It could either be your daily ride or your Sunday hobby bike… as it’s been for me.