Post Listing Update: Despite 26 bids up to $6,600, this RD did not meet reserve.
A reader of mine with an excellent set of bikes is unfortunately letting some of them go to make room for a move from California to Minnesota. I think I have to remind him that it snows there so he’ll stay here. One of the beauties he’s selling is this restored and well-modified RD400, the hooligan’s bike of choice for many of you back in the day.
The RD400 came about when Yamaha made the RD350 a bit bigger in 1976 – displacement was 399cc. Thanks to 44 horsepower, the bigger RD was capable of hitting the ton with a top speed of 105 miles per hour. Most people know the 400 simply for being an easier to ride upgrade over the 350, but it was also notable for being the first production motorcycle to feature cast wheels as standard. I should clarify that the 400 motor was more than a bored out 350 unit – Yamaha increased the stroke and in doing so they had to build new crankcases, as well. The bike weighed about 350 pounds, and it was the most popular two-stroke sportbike of its day. For more on the RD400, check out this profile from Visordown, who call this a biking icon.
The seller acquired this example (VIN: 1A1-306602) a year ago and it didn’t meet his standards so he gave it a “nut and bolt restoration”. His goal was to keep the cosmetics stock but to work the motor so that it would better suited for street duty. He sent the head and barrels to Scott Clough for a Stage 1 tune focused on improved mid range power. Other highlights of the work include a rebuilt crank with new bearings and rods, rebuilt oil pump, and a new coat of Chappy Red paint. I’ve spent some time riding the seller’s Z1, and I feel confident in saying that he takes care of his stuff. He included a video in the listing as well as a photo album detailing the restoration work.
Find this RD for sale in Hollister, California with bidding up to $3,900 and the reserve not yet met
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