Yamaha introduced the DT/RT line of Dual Sport motorcycles in 1968. They featured rock solid power and reliability with good ground clearance and suspension. By 1970 they had brought out the RT1 360, an absolute monster of power with a couple of serious quirks. They had an incredible back kick on starting, and their handling was questionable at best in the dirt. The 1973 RT3s went to a 21” front wheel in an effort to improve the handling. It was an improvement, and a change that would last for years in the Dual Sport ranks.
The 1973 Yamaha RT3 360 used a 351 CC air cooled two stroke single cylinder motor that produced 28 HP for a top speed of 80 MPH. A 5 speed transmission with an overdriven top gear allowed the top speed mark and made it road capable. At less than 230 LBS dry weight the ride was good, the handling and braking fair for the day. Yamaha’s Auto Lube system of oil injection worked very well and what a big selling point for the company.
This particular 1973 Yamaha RT3 360 (VIN # RT1128074) is in Beverly Hills, California and is listed as a 1,647 mile perfectly maintained survivor. The seller claims everything works as new. The bike is currently priced at $3,350