Pride and joy: Wan Noor Azmirullah showing off his 1980’s Yamaha RX-Z that has become quite a crowd favourite at roadshows. — Bernama
KUANTAN: Wan Noor Azmirullah Wan Noor Abidin, 35, has spent nearly half a million ringgit in order to fulfil his dream and passion for the iconic 1980s Yamaha RX-Z motorcycles.
He has managed to own every edition of the bike, which has now become a highly sought-after machine among motor enthusiasts.
Whether it is the 1980s model with a five-speed transmission or the upgraded six-speed version introduced by Yamaha in the 1990s, the mechanic owns them all.
As such, it comes as no surprise that the garage of his home in Kampung Gong Badak, Terengganu, has become a focal point for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking these 135cc bikes. His place has also become a sort of mini-museum where visitors come to admire and learn about the motorcycles.
“I have over 25 Yamaha RX-Z motorcycles, including the Boss edition, the current popular model Catalyzer, and the rare Millennium edition. I began my quest to collect all these editions back in 2013 when I noticed a surge in demand after Yamaha ceased production in 2010.
“These motorcycles will undergo modifications to upgrade their speed, brake and exhaust systems. The cost of modifying each bike can exceed RM40,000, which makes their market value higher than that of a brand-new vehicle,” he told Bernama.
An RX-Z motorcycle, synonymous with being the “high-class kapcai” due to its two-stroke 135cc engine, can fetch anywhere from RM10,000 to RM40,000, even in poor condition.
For the NOS, or “new old stock category”, the price can reach up to RM100,000 after they are restored and refurbished using original parts.
His collection has won him various awards and even thousands of ringgit, attracting many buyers interested in purchasing his bikes.
“I don’t use these motorcycles on public roads. It is strictly for collection purposes and participation in motorcycling events. Even transporting it to events is done using a four-wheel-drive vehicle,” he said.
