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Every now and then, something appears on eBay that stops even seasoned barn find hunters in their tracks.
This wonderfully retro Yamaha Salient Deluxe is one of those machines.
Finished in gloriously period gold paint with faux wood-effect trim panels, this 49cc Yamaha scooter looks like it has rolled straight out of an early-1980s high street — and according to the seller, you are unlikely to see another anytime soon.
The Yamaha Salient was part of the wave of practical step-through mopeds and scooters that arrived during the late 1970s and early 1980s, aimed squarely at commuters and younger riders wanting affordable, lightweight transport.
Unlike many more common Japanese mopeds from the era, the Salient has become remarkably scarce in the UK.
This particular machine is believed to be the Deluxe model, identified by its gold paintwork and imitation wood trim, giving it a wonderfully quirky period feel that somehow works brilliantly today.
And the rarity claims may not be exaggerated either.
The seller states they have been informed there are believed to be only five others currently registered on UK roads, making this example potentially number six.
The scooter is being sold as a restoration or recommissioning project after years off the road.
According to the listing, it was last MOT tested in June 2010 and now benefits from historic vehicle status, becoming tax exempt from April 2026 as it passes the 40-year threshold.
Importantly, the V5 is present in the seller’s name, along with old MOT certificates and the original handbook — exactly the sort of history enthusiasts like to see with niche survivors like this.
Visually, it appears very complete overall, with the seller noting that only the small Perspex screen mounted above the handlebars is missing.
What really makes this Yamaha stand out is the styling.
The square headlamp, slab-sided bodywork, metallic gold finish and wood-effect inserts absolutely scream early 1980s optimism. It is impossible not to smile looking at it.
While sports mopeds and pedal-and-pop machines often steal the spotlight today, scooters like this were once everywhere. Most were simply used up and discarded, which is exactly why survivors now feel so interesting.
Whether restored sympathetically or simply recommissioned and enjoyed as-is, this would make a brilliant talking point at any classic bike show.
Want to see what Yamaha Salient scooters are currently available?
You can browse the latest Yamaha Salient listings on eBay here:
We are always looking for interesting old motorcycles, mopeds and scooters — especially long-forgotten garage finds and unusual survivors like this one.
If you have something tucked away and are considering selling, you can contact us through the UK Barn Finds website or send us details via WhatsApp on 07494 851220.
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