The Rokon RT340 Automatic was an unusual American attempt to bring automatic transmission technology to the world of serious off road motorcycles. Introduced in 1973, the RT340 was among the first motorcycles, not scooters, to use an automatic transmission, predating the Honda CB750A and Moto Guzzi 1000 Convert.
Rather than a conventional gearbox and clutch, the RT340 used a Salsbury torque converter paired with a 334cc Sachs two stroke single, allowing the rider to simply twist the throttle and go. The Sachs engine was designed for sustained high rpm operation and featured a four port layout with two additional booster ports, while fuel delivery was initially handled by a Tillotson carburetor before Rokon adopted a Mikuni unit, which this one has.
The torque converter began engaging at approximately 2,800 rpm and automatically adjusted its ratio as engine speed increased, allowing the engine to remain in its useful power range without rider intervention. The system also meant the RT340 freewheeled when the throttle was closed, eliminating the engine braking normally associated with a conventional motorcycle.
Beneath the unconventional drivetrain was a relatively conventional steel tube chassis, with suspension supplied by Betor and hydraulic disc brakes at both ends. The RT340 was developed with enduro competition in mind and proved capable in that environment, earning four medals at the 1973 International Six Days Trial and additional medals in 1975.
With the updated RT340-II introduced for 1976, the model continued until 1978, before Rokon ultimately ceased production of the RT series. This 1976 RT340 Automatic represents one of the rare production motorcycles to combine a two stroke single with a fully automatic transmission, making it a particularly unusual piece of American motorcycle history.
This example is VIN: RTII 2058
This dirt bike does not have an odometer or ignition keys. It is True Mileage Unknown.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection. We found that the bike does have spark, and 150+ psi of compression. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Low/Unknown
Engine Oil Quality: Need replacement
2T Oil Level: N/A Premix
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Fail (>3% of moisture contamination)
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Fail (>3% of moisture contamination)
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Ok but Dry and Dirty
Headlight High Beam: N/A
Headlight Low Beam: N/A
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: N/A
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light (Front Switch): N/A
Brake Light (Rear Switch): N/A
Plate Light: N/A
Horn: N/A
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 90% contaminated
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 70%
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: PDC
Tire Date Code Rear: 45/12
Tire % Remaining Front: 99%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 99%
Tire Press. Front: 0 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 30 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: N/A
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: N/A
Running Condition: Crank No Start
Test Ride Completed: None Taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
-Bike does have spark
-Bike has 150+ PSI of compression
-Front brake pads are wet
-Transmission oil condition is unknown recommended replacement
-Broken Taillight Lens
-Hard to roll will need to diagnose issue
Recommendations:
-No Start Diagnostic
-Trans Oil Change
-Hydro 2 (Front Brake and Rear Brake Fluid)
-Front and Rear Tires and Tubes
-Chain Service
-Replace Fuel and verify fuel system
-Diagnose Difficulty Rolling ie bearings, brake drag, misalignment etc.
Modifications:
This bike appears to be stock with no modifications.
Pro-Grip grips.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Cheng Shin Motorcross M5B tires which have aged out with date codes of 4512.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, CA, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Rokon is offered on a Bill Of Sale only. Have any RT340 Automatic stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
