Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 1985 Yamaha RZ350.
Only sold in the states from 84-85, the RZ350 was the first bike in the US to come equipped with catalytic converters and the first Yamaha street bike in the US to use a perimeter frame. It was also one of the last street-legal two-strokes available in this country.
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 on what made the RZ350 special, check out this profile on Cycle World – they said, “Our July 1984 cover bike rated a “perfect 10” on the fun scale.”
This example is VIN: JYA1EL00XFA001548. The seller purchased the bike in 2001 from a private party out of Washington and states, “Ridden just yesterday, and it was such a joy! Has been extremely dependable and the most enjoyable of the four sport bikes I have owned. During my tenure: conservatively ridden, never dropped, and always well stored. The bike was registered in 2001 by California DMV, at which time DMV added their own labels. The bike has been registered and insured ever since.”
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 2,000 miles. The odometer shows 8,177 miles.
Maintenance:
Per the seller, “From memory: periodic routine maintenance, rebuilt forks, cable(s) replaced, new OEM tires, petcock, kick starter seal, oil dipstick and other items. New AGM battery January 2025. No mechanical or other modifications. Handlebars, rear turn signals and mirrors replaced, and grab bar and rear fender removed, all before my ownership. To my knowledge, the bike is otherwise factory original. No mechanical problems, everything runs and works as it should. Could use a new oil reservoir. Ready to ride.”
Modifications:
Aftermarket rear turn signals. Rear grab bar removed.
Aftermarket handlebars. Aftermarket mirrors.
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax tires which have aged out with date codes of 0104 and 0204.
The sale includes three keys, owner’s manual, repair manual, parts manual.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“The bike has some minor blemishes that are consistent with an original, unrestored 41 year old vehicle, and the cell phone photos over-exaggerate these. Please take this into account.”
Currently located in San Francisco, California, this Yamaha is offered on a clean California title with registration current through June 2025.
Have any RZ350 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!