1975 Yamaha YZ250-OW Replica
The following story and information about a 1975 Yamaha YZ250-OW Replica was graciously given to us from Steve Stavrakakis of Modesto, California. Steve, if you read this, please contact us and send us a few pictures!
Back in October of 1974 when Yamaha released their new innovative, 1975 YZ-B model Mono-Shock racers on a limited basis under a dealer support program, I was lucky enough to be an up and coming rider deemed worthy by Jewett Motors in Modesto, CA and received what I was told the third YZ250B released to a “civilian” in California.
After winning 9 races in a 14 race series, I quickly promoted from the ranks of Novice #357v to Junior/Intermediate in District 36 competition. My Junior/Intermediate race number issued was #39. At the time, #39 held no significance. However, shortly after, a new Yamaha sensation by the name of Bob “Hurricane” Hannah started sweeping MX headlines. His number… 39. So naturally, when it came time to upgrade my beloved YZ-B, I replicated Hannah’s factory Yamaha OW paint scheme on the tank, white fenders, bobbed rear frame and Maico forks. The result was an exact Hannah replica to all but the keenest eyes!
After searching unsuccessfully for my original, personal YZ250B (which I sold for $250!) for a few years, I decided to replicate that amazing bike. This bike is a replica of my original, with the exception of machined ’77 YZ forks in place of my original Maico fork conversion back in the day.
The bike has won acclaim and awards everywhere it’s gone, leading to a new career restoring and replicating peoples prized vintage memories. Recent displays included a special vintage display at the recent Progressive Motorcycle Int’l. Expo in San Mateo, CA.
When not on public display, the bike serves as living art in my living room, very near my exact 1976 RM370A that replaced it way back then, but that’s a different profile!
Featured magnesium and lightened parts throughout. Bikes were factory limited production “Werks” replica’s and sold for $1499. Almost $500 more than the MX250B production MX’ers released later that year.
Original 1975 YZ250B Specs
246cc Piston Port, Reed Valved, 2-stroke single with claimed 31.0 hp @7500 rpms.
Double cradle tube frame, 7.6″ front suspension and 6.8″ rear monoshock suspension.
Dry weight – 227 lbs.
