Wilcomoto - Prototype - 1/1 - 498 cc - 1980

Rare Factory Wilcomoto 500 Prototype – British Moto History

Extremely rare factory prototype Wilcomoto 500, representing the absolute pinnacle of early 1980's British engineering. Handbuilt by the Wilcox family in Herefordshire, this iconic 498cc two-stroke crosser delivers an impressive 57bhp. Engineered with extreme devotion, it features ultralight magnesium engine castings, a single-piece cast aluminium front hub and disc, and a heavy-duty 4-speed gearbox built to handle massive power. Equipped with custom 42mm Wilco air forks and a circulatory rear shock unit, this machine is a true masterpiece. An unrepeatable opportunity for serious collectors to own a genuine piece of classic motocross history.

Wilcomoto 500 – Technical Specifications**

* **Engine:** 498cc two-stroke single, 87mm bore x 83mm stroke, 16-petal reed valve induction with Del'Orto 41mm carburetor. Compression ratio 8:1. Peak output: 57bhp @ 7,500rpm. All engine castings made from lightweight magnesium. Foam air filter, Motoplat ignition, premix fuel/oil.

* **Transmission:** 4-speed constant mesh gearbox with a 6-plate cork clutch running in oil. Primary drive by gear (4:1 ratio).

* **Front Suspension:** Telescopic hydraulic/air forks with 42mm hard-chromed stanchions, magnesium sliders and yokes. 13 inches (33cm) of travel.

* **Rear Suspension:** Aluminium swingarm with custom Wilcox remote damper unit utilizing a circulatory cooling system. 13 inches (33cm) of travel. Needle roller bearings fitted front and rear.

* **Brakes:**
Front:** 10-inch (26cm) alloy disc, hard-chromed. Wilco magnesium caliper with Dunlopad wet-weather pads and Brembo fluid reservoir.

Rear:** 6-inch (15cm) magnesium drum, fully floating and rod-operated.


* **Wheels & Tyres:** Akront dimple-less anodised rims fitted with Dunlop tyres (3.00 x 21" front / 5.00 x 18" rear).


* **Dimensions & Weight:**
* **Tank Capacity:** 14 litres (3 gallons)


* **Wheelbase:** 61 inches (155cm)


* **Ground Clearance:** 15.7 inches (40cm)

* **Seat Height:** 38 inches (96.5cm)

* **Dry Weight:** 225 lbs (103 kg)

* **Manufacturer:** Wilcomoto Ltd, Old Saw Mills, Holme Lacy, Hereford, UK.

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**History & Key Features**

* **Engine & Transmission Development:** Developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s by Tom Wilcox and his sons (Brian, Mike, and Steve). Due to the intense power output of the 490cc/498cc engine, the original 6-speed setup stripped gear teeth, leading to the development of a bulletproof 4-speed gearbox with wider, double-diameter cogs.

* **Advanced In-House Manufacturing:** Built using CNC machinery (Churchill V50) to precision-drill barrel and crankcase joints and bore exhaust ports. Features magnesium engine casings, a 12% silicon alloy piston, and a heavy-duty crank with a 33mm pin.

* **Chassis & Braking:** Built with high-specification 45-ton steel tubing requiring minimal frame gusseting. The front hub and 10-inch brake disc are cast as a single aluminium piece for superior heat dissipation. Aluminium extrusions used for the swingarm feature a 5mm minimum wall thickness for extreme durability.

This specific model:
Unlike the later standard production models, this early prototype features a unique, factory-modified frame setup. Additionally, both the fuel tank and the airbox are crafted from lightweight polyester (fiberglass), highlighting its handbuilt development history.

Why this Wilcomoto is unrepeatable:
As a genuine factory prototype, this bike is a holy grail for classic motocross collectors. With its ultra-rare magnesium castings, innovative engineering, and extreme British craftsmanship, you are not just buying a motorcycle—you are securing a priceless piece of 2-stroke racing history.

Don't miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity.