Post Sale Update: This RZ sold for $6,700 after 16 bids on eBay.
Only sold in the states from 84-85, these were the first bikes in the US to come equipped with catalytic converters and the first Yamaha street bike in the US to use a perimeter frame. They were also one of the last street-legal two-strokes available in this country. The ’85 RZ was available in red/white and yellow/black – either option came with Kenny Roberts’ signature on the front fairing.
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. For more information on the RZ350, check out this profile on Cycle World.
This example shows 4,456 miles on the odometer and the seller claims it runs nicely with a top end that’s like new. It was serviced last fall with a carb clean, replacement of “all the fluids”, new front brake pads, new chain, and new tires. It seems to be in good shape cosmetically with the exception of some dings in the tank on the left which are shown in the seller’s video of the bike starting up:
Find this RZ for sale in Glen Cove, New York with bidding up to $5,300