Yamaha DT 80 LC – General Information
The Yamaha DT 80 LC represents a milestone in the history of small dual-sport bikes and was the brand's first model to be fully manufactured in Spain starting in 1982. This evolution of the DT (Dirt Trail) series introduced liquid cooling to compete in the demanding 80cc segment, offering a perfect balance between everyday durability and off-road capability. Its design, inspired by the large motocross machines of the era, solidified its reputation as one of the most versatile and sought-after enduro bikes on the European market in the 1980s.
Yamaha DT 80 LC vs. DT 80 LC2
The DT 80 family was steadily developed to meet the performance and safety demands of young riders. Although they share the same reliable mechanical base, there are key differences between the versions. In the early series, the model relied on drum brakes on both axles, focusing on mechanical simplicity and low weight. The DT 80 LC2 version updated the chassis for more precise and safer handling. The most significant innovation was the switch to a disc brake on the front wheel, replacing the original drum brake. This provided significantly better braking performance with a more precise pressure point and more direct response, perfectly matching the output of the 12 hp engine.
Yamaha DT 80 LC Technical Specifications
DT 80 LC Engine and Performance
Equipped with a liquid-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke engine and the YEIS (Yamaha Energy Induction System) intake system. Depending on the market, the displacement was adjusted to 73cc or 79cc, with optimized versions reaching a maximum output of up to 12 hp (8.8 kW) at 8,500 rpm.
- Displacement: 79cc (73cc in the Spanish version)
- Bore x Stroke: 49 x 42 mm
- Carburetor: Mikuni VM 18 SS / LC 2 → Mikuni VM 20 SS
- Ignition: CDI
- Spark plug: NGK BR8ES
- Starter: Kickstarter
- Fuel tank: 9 liters / LC 2 → 10 liters
Yamaha DT 80 Drivetrain
Power transmission via a multi-plate wet clutch and a 6-speed gearbox allows full utilization of the two-stroke engine's dynamic character. This ensures agile response in the city and a top speed of over 100 km/h on open roads.
DT 80 LC Chassis and Safety
The semi-double cradle steel tube frame provides the necessary robustness for mixed use, complemented by the monoshock rear suspension system. This central shock absorber allowed for greater travel and better damping on uneven terrain compared to the twin shocks common at the time.
- Front suspension: Hydraulic telescopic fork (230 mm travel / LC 2 240 mm travel)
- Rear suspension: Monoshock (200 mm travel / LC 2 210 mm travel)
- Brakes (LC): 130 mm drum (front) | 130 mm drum (rear)
- Brakes (LC 2): 190 mm disc brake (front) | 130 mm drum (rear)
- Tires (LC): Front 2.50-21" | Rear 3.25-18"
- Tires (LC 2): Front 2.75-21" | Rear 4.10-18"
Yamaha DT 80 Dimensions and Weight
The excellent power-to-weight ratio makes the DT 80 particularly maneuverable, which is an advantage off-road.
- Overall length: 2,130 mm / LC 2 → 2,140 mm
- Overall width: 820 mm
- Seat height: 840 mm / LC 2 → 845 mm
- Wheelbase: 1,345 mm / LC 2 → 1,360 mm
- Dry weight: 108 kg / LC 2 → 110 kg
Fluids and Maintenance
- Oil mix: Autolube system
- Oil tank: 1.2 liters
- Cooling: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze
Spare Parts and Maintenance for Yamaha DT 80 LC
In our online shop, you will find everything needed for the maintenance, restoration, and tuning of your Yamaha DT 80 LC. We carry a specialized range of spare parts for the Yamaha DT 80 LC, including essential components for two-stroke engines such as cylinders, carburetors, and crankshafts. We also offer chassis solutions, from chain kits to braking systems and engine gaskets, to ensure this classic enduro continues to run as reliably as the day it was made.
