1976 YAMAHA FS1-E DX

This Yamaha FS1-E DX is a highly original example of the classic Japanese moped, benefiting from a comprehensive restoration in 2012, and cherished ownership since then. Power comes from a 49cc two-stroke air-cooled engine, coupled to a four-speed manual gearbox. As a 1976 UK-market bike, this FS1-E (or ‘Fizzy’, as they are more knowingly called) is a ‘pre-restriction’ model capable of 45mph in standard guise – with many having been tuned to go much faster. From 1 August 1977, mopeds were restricted to 30mph making the pre-restriction models highly collectible. In DX guise, it also benefits from the front brake disc upgrade, along with new struts beneath the fuel tank to aid handling. The odometer indicates 1,321 miles, which is the mileage since its restoration completed in 2012.

As is often the case with these mopeds - which could be ridden by 16-year-olds prior to getting behind the wheel of a car - it passed through several owners within the first five years of its life, with the sixth keeper acquiring it in 1981. After using it for a short period, the FS1-E was then laid up in dry barn storage and largely forgotten about until 2011, when the odometer was said to have read around 3,000 miles from new. At this point, it came to the attention of Mr Per-Ola Brandt, then the owner of motorcycle specialist Two Wheeled Classics and chair of the FS1-E owners club.

Having recognised this Yamaha’s remarkable originality, Mr Brandt set about fully restoring the moped, before displaying it in finished form at the 2012 owners’ club meet. The vendor subsequently acquired this two-wheeled machine and has used it sparingly over the last eight-and-a-half years. It has been ridden only in fair weather conditions, and has been carefully stored when not in use.

This ‘Fizzy’ presents in superb condition, still looking fresh following its restoration nearly nine years ago. The yellow painted tanks present very well, and all of the brightwork is also in great shape. There are smart decals on the bodywork denoting its engine capacity, and the seat has been fully re-trimmed in smart black vinyl. Light lenses, bolts, and other fasteners are in very good condition.

Mechanically, this FS1-E is reported to be in fine health, and it will be given a fresh service by London Scooters prior to handover to the next owner. The same workshop has provided routine maintenance during the vendor’s ownership, seeing it in both 2018 and 2013. In December 2016 it was handed over to experienced classic motorcycle engineer George Keeble for a thorough inspection and a more significant overhaul. Mr Keeble went through the moped in detail, checking every component and carefully rectifying just a handful of minor faults. His work was so thorough that he even kept the debris found in the carburettor, which is now in a small plastic bag in the history file.

Now exempt from mandatory testing, this bike’s last MOT inspection was on 18 May 2018 at an indicated 1,221 miles, when it achieved a first-time pass with no advisories whatsoever. Both tyres are reported to be in very good condition with ample tread. It is accompanied by the original owner’s manual, as well as a period Haynes maintenance book and spare keys.

This Yamaha FS1-E DX is a charming Japanese classic, finished in a vibrant period-correct colour and benefiting from a detailed specialist restoration within the last decade. While many of these mopeds were used and abused in period, this particular ‘Fizzy’ managed to escape the clutches of overzealous teenagers by being safely stored for the best part of 30 years. For someone looking to relive their youth, or for a connoisseur of these 1970s machines, it would make a fine addition to their collection.

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