Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 1979 Yamaha RD400F Daytona Special. Additional photos of this Yamaha RD400F Daytona Special are available here for your perusal.
The last in the long line of Yamaha’s RD series, the RD400F (also known as the Daytona Special) is considered by many to be the best of the model line.
The press went nuts for it – Cycle magazine called it “Dennis the Menace on Yokohama tires, and is the most fun street motorcycle currently available for sale.”
Compared to the RD350, the extra 50cc brought a lot more civility. The engine was more flexible, though you could still easily wheelie the bike in 2nd gear. It was the perfect example of how the RD series had evolved from a hooligan’s toy into a more refined, but still enjoyable, sport bike.
This example is VIN: 2V0002337, engine #: 2V0002239. The seller acquired the bike 14 years ago from a private party in Sacramento.
During his ownership, the seller has covered roughly 1,200 miles. The odometer shows 13,038 miles.
Maintenance:
In April of 2022, the seller had us set the timing, rebuild the front brake, and clean the carbs. We also installed a new kick-start gear set.
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us rebuild the engine, send the crankshaft out for repair, upgrade the ignition system, and rebuild the front brake master, replace the front brake line, install new front and rear reservoir diaphragms, and repair the front brake switch. Our service department notes the following in their condition report:
Gas Tank Condition: Ok, PREMIX
Tire Years – Front: 0609; Rear:0509
Tire % – Front: 90%; Rear: 90%
Tire Pressure – Front: 26 PSI; Rear: 28 PSI
Brake % – Front: 40%, Rear: 60%
Hydraulic – Front: New; Rear: Ok
Transmission Oil – Level: Ok; Quality: New
Coolant: NA
Low Beam: Ok
High Beam: NOT WORKING
Parking Light: Ok
Turn Signals: NOT WORKING
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light: Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Killswitch: Ok
Horn: Ok
Battery:
OCV: 12.12V
Test Ride: 5+ miles, unit operates as designed
Modifications:
Aftermarket exhaust.
Aftermarket fairing.
Aftermarket seat.
Aftermarket taillight.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT45 tires that have aged out.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Yamaha is offered on a clean California title with current PNO (planned nonoperation) registration. Have any RD400 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
