Post-Listing Update: Despite 30 bids up to $9,600 on eBay, the reserve was not met on this Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts.
One of the last two-strokes officially imported into the US, the Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts is very much a sought-after collectors bike in the US. Only sold in the states from 84-85, these were the first bikes in the US to come equipped with catalytic converters. It was also the first Yamaha street bike in the US to use a perimeter frame. But the technical firsts are what make this bike so popular – it’s an excellent and enjoyable tribute to the first American to win a Grand Prix (now called MotoGP) championship.
Estimated production of these bikes was around 20,000 – accidents and time have worn down that number significantly. You’ll note the YPVS acronym on the engine: that stands for Yamaha Power Valve System, a computer-controlled valve that could adjust exhaust port timing. This enabled increased torque at low RPMs while maintaining horsepower higher up in the rev band. Specifically marketed as a limited edition in the states, many of these are used in vintage races (there are even RZ350 specific races all over the country).
This specific Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts has 16,319 miles and is claimed to be in incredible shape/museum quality. It has never been restored, and seems to be cosmetically flawless. I can’t say I’ve personally seen a nicer one for sale, which means the reserve will be set very high…
Find this Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts for sale in Naples, Florida with bidding up to $7,200 and the reserve not yet met
