Description
Additional photos of this Yamaha RZ350RR are available here for your perusal.
Though this bike (VIN: 29K020309, Engine #: 1EL-000470) started as a 1984 Yamaha RZ350RR, it has been extensively modified and may make you think of a YZR500 at first glance…
First off – if you’re not familiar with the RR, it was a Japan-only model that produced 59 horsepower and was available in red/white or blue/white liveries.
When the bike was imported to the US, it was solely used as a race bike for several years (with some success).
The owner at that time lost the original RR-spec engine (which is very similar to the regular RZ motor) and replaced it with a 1EL (California-spec) unit that has been modified – more details below. The original owner also lost the original body work. The current owner’s father rescued the machine and got it street legal in California, then gave it a refresh.
Purists need not apply, but this RZ is perfect for someone who just wants to ride and burn some two-stroke oil. Let’s look at the modifications:
Engine
The motor has been ported.
It’s paired with mikuni TM28 flat slide carbs.
K&N Y-boot air filter, new intake boots, Boysen fiber reeds, a high output metal water pump, new heavy duty clutch with stiffer springs in a Hinson billet clutch basket, oversized aluminum radiator.
Ball-bearing shift arm, modified shift star for smoother action, and JL stainless expansion chambers.
The engine was rebuilt approximately 600 miles ago with a new Herr Jugs Racing pinned/welded/trued crank, new OEM transmission bearings, new seals, new Wossner pistons, and new gasket. The original crank and an aftermarket spare crank are included in the sale. Please note that the oil pump has been removed so you must run premix.
Suspension/Wheels
Swapped out the front end for a 2008 Yamaha R1 unit and the rear end for a Suzuki RGV250 VJ22. It’s got All Balls Racing steering bearings, NHK Japan steering damper.
Bridgestone Battlax RS10 tires, Brembo/Marchesini rear wheel from an RS250.
Rare RZ350-specific Ohlins remote reservoir rear shock with remote reservoir. Very recently rebuilt by an Ohlins suspension tech.
All Balls Racing swingarm bearings, NK racing billet chain adjusters, NK racing offset front sprocket, DID gold race chain, swingarm spools, Tyga aluminum rear sprocket with titanium mounting hardware.
Brakes/Controls
Brembo radial front master, steel braided lines front and rear, 2008 Yamaha R1 front brakes and rotors.
Brembo rear master cylinder, Brembo rear caliper and billet mount.
CRG bar end mirrors.
ASV clutch perch and lever, T12 Tech billet rearsets (very rare).
Electronics
Shorai lithium-ion battery, Japanese-market tachometer.
Koso speedo, Koso water temp gauge.
High output spark coils, custom wire harness, LED turn signals.
The seller notes that it needs a new horn.
Bodywork
Airtech YZR500 fiberglass fairings, halogen headlight with custom magnetic cover.
Gustafsson windscreen, thick race foam seat pad, Airtech fiberglass tank with their custom flush tank cap and custom vent port.
Custom fit Ducati 998 tail light with bright LED bulbs.
Tyga carbon front and rear fenders.
The seller says that the paint on this RZ “looks very nice, has an epoxy clear coat, but it’s a race bike paint job and has some scratches and blemishes here and there.” He has included photos of any blemishes that stick out, such as a 1″ crack on the left fairing, 1″ rub marking on the right fairing, 1″ paint chip on the bank of the tank, some scratches on the rear wheel, and some wear in the clear coat of the fuel tank from fuel over time (the fiberglass tank is sealed).
Other Cool Stuff
Suntory coffee catch can from Japan.
Invited build at the 2018 OG Moto Show in Downtown LA.
2018 Two Stroke Extravaganza 3rd Best Yamaha.
2017 Two Stroke Extravaganza “Kenny Roberts Award”.
This RZ weighs about 325 lbs wet.
The seller states that it “rides like a modern sport bike with all the upgrades it has. Engine pulls hard and cruises no problem at 80mph on the freeway. Turns heads everywhere and attracts a major crowd.” He’s had the bike since 2015 and put approximately 3,000 kilometers on it, giving it “a few engine rebuilds in that time.” He’s enjoyed building and riding it, however he spends more time on his Suzuki RG500 and this RZ-RR sits too much. Now it’s time for someone else to enjoy!
