What we have here is an early two-stroke 125-cc enduro motorcycle that would also have been quite adept on the street—although Yamaha referred to the AT3 officially as an enduro/adventure bike. It boasts a sturdy frame, 12-volt electrics, and an electric starter.
However, it was said that Yamaha’s use of an engine-driven magneto meant that the battery had to be in near-peak condition for the system to work well. But that’s what the kickstarter is for, right?
197 Yamaha AT3 - right side - featured
A Legit Survivor
Miles Dominowski is the proprietor of Ultramotorsource.com in Hortonville, Wisc. Dominowski has an immediate answer when asked what kind of machines he specializes in.
Dominowski says:
Anything metric from the 1960s to the early 2000s, although I might be talked into the odd British classic. Maybe an oil-in-frame Bonneville 750.
He is a dedicated motorcycle guy, even if Harleys and Indians aren’t his bag. What does he know about this Yamaha AT3?
It came from a local guy who’d owned it for a very long time and took good care of it. The mileage is showing as just 3,000.
Dominowski addressed concerns that the original and unrestored bike might need attention. He said that those concerns were addressed.
Everything it needed, we did. All it warranted was new tires, new battery, and a general service. This one’s a survivor.
To Use or Preserve
This Yamaha AT3 was used very little and maintained well. It’s a pretty machine—with its upswept exhaust, braced handlebars, and a tasteful amount of brightwork to keep you busy polishing. The Yamaha AT3 is beautifully proportioned.
With 125 cc of capacity and around 13 peak horsepower, Yamaha’s ambition for the AT3 didn’t extend beyond a blend of mild-road and some off-road/enduro action. It wouldn’t be anybody’s choice to go any distance.
However, with its Buy-It-Now price of $4,250, it won’t break the bank and would be an ideal bike to take to local shows. Or perhaps you might preserve it at home and only reveal it for after-dinner conversation. Either way, this Yamaha AT3 would be a pleasure to own.
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