“Cool doesn’t even come close.” That’s how Visordown summarized the iconic RD400 in one sentence, but the longer story isn’t very complicated, either. 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. 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.
This example is VIN: 1A1307205. The seller acquired it in 2022 from a private party.
During his ownership, the seller has covered less than 500 miles. The odometer shows 19,612 miles.
“I have a son now, I don’t ride very often. The bike just sits. This bike is a bit dangerous. It has surprised very experienced riders.”
Maintenance:
“I have recently replaced a throttle cable, changed the gear box oil, cleaned/oiled the air filters and set the chain tension. Fresh spark plugs. The fuel tank has been kept dry and only 110 octane race gas has been used to avoid carb maintenance. Tires have older date codes but are soft without weather cracking.”
“The bike has no mechanical issues. Nothing leaks, everything works like it should. The bike does not have turn signals or mirrors.”
Modifications:
“I have a complete build list from when the bike was disassembled, powder coated, and the motor was built. I will include photos of all the info. One of a kind, very tastefully put together and it absolutely hauls ass.
Upgraded front suspension, rear shocks, front/rear brake set ups, electronic ignition, aftermarket throttle assembly, upgraded front master cylinder, big carbs, $5k 427cc engine build with Daytona head, ETC. Complete top to bottom resto-mod build with factory paint and decals on tank and body work. This bike will wheelie in any gear.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Shinko tires that have aged out.
The sale includes 2 ignition keys.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“The fuel tank is spotless inside, but it does have dings, patina and decal fade. It is original paint. The side cover and oil tank are of the same condition. The rear fender has powder coat rubbed off under the license plate. The exhaust has small dings from road debris on the underside, but the cerakote polishes and shows well. Various hardware pieces such as swing arm bolt/nut and engine hardware are a bit dingy. The kicker side trim piece on the seat is missing a retainer on the backside, so it doesn’t set flush. The engine cases under the carbs are stained.”
Currently located in Ropesville, Texas, this Yamaha is offered on a clean Texas title.
Have any RD400 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
