1985 Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts

Description

Additional photos of this 1985 Yamaha RZ350 are available here for your perusal.

In the 1980s, tightening emissions requirements started to kill off the two-stroke motorcycles we knew and loved. Yamaha’s last gasp was the RZ350, which was able to sneak through thanks to the industry’s first inclusion of catalytic converters integrated into the exhaust system. US models were offered in 1984 and 1985 and were specifically marketed as Kenny Roberts replicas with the legendary “speedblock” livery and Kenny’s signature on the front fairing.

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, resulting in over 40 horsepower at the rear wheel. There wasn’t much in form of competition for the RZ in the mid 80s, and Cycle World called it a ‘perfect 10 on the fun scale’ when it was their cover bike in July of 1984.

The seller of this example (VIN: JYA48H000EA004345) purchased it in April 2014 from a private party in Glendora, California.

Since then he’s covered 160 miles. The odometer now shows 6,963 miles.

It is equipped with a Spec II exhaust.

The sale includes a solo seat cowl.

Before listing the bike on our auction site, he had our shop clean/sync the carbs, replace a broken fuse, and repair two broken fuse tabs.

Cosmetic Blemishes:

The seller is letting this go as he’s moving from motorcycles to cars and is selling all of his bikes – if you know someone who’s selling a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro, he wants to talk to you!

Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment if you’d like to view it), this Yamaha is offered on a clean California title with non-op registration.

Have any RZ350 stories or have any questions? Let us know in the comments!