Gilera Dakota 350 and 500

Gilera · 1985–1990

Gilera Dakota 350 and 500: history and buying advice

The four-stroke trail bike with which Gilera challenged the Ténéré.

Nederlandse versie

History

At the Milan motorcycle show in November 1985 Gilera showed a new four-stroke: the Dakota 350, designed by engineer Lucio Masut. It was a water-cooled single with four valves and twin overhead camshafts driven by a toothed belt, intended as a rival to the Yamaha Ténéré. Later a 500 followed with about a quarter more power.

The styling was praised, but off-road riders complained about the wide tank, which forced their knees outwards. So in 1987 came the ER with a smaller tank, making four Dakotas: 350 and 500, standard and ER. After that came the sportier XRT.

Key data

Engine1 cylinder four-stroke, 4 valves, 2 overhead camshafts, liquid-cooled
Capacity350: 349 cc (80 × 69 mm); 500: 492 cc (92 × 74 mm)
Power350: approx. 33 hp; 500: approx. 44 hp
Gearsfive
Top speed500: approx. 154 km/h
Tank22 litres (standard)

What to check when buying

  • Ask when the timing belt was replaced; it must be changed on time.
  • Check the cooling system for leaks and check that the radiators are intact.
  • Standard or ER? The ER has a smaller tank and is more comfortable off-road.
  • Plastic parts and the big tank are hard to find. Check that everything is complete.
  • Check the frame and front fork for off-road damage.

SourcesMotorcycle Specs: Gilera Dakota 500 (English)Wikipedia: Gilera (English)

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