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!
Additional Information
Location
Santa Monica, California
Year
1985
Make
Yamaha
Model
RZ350
Mileage
6,963
Title
Clean
Title State/Country
California
VIN
JYA48H000EA004345
Private Party/Dealership
Private Party
Additional Charges
No
Total Bids Placed: 14
Auction has ended.
Auction expired without reaching reserve price.
Highest bidder was: c***r
After the auction ended, the seller accepted an offer of $9,844 including buyer fees.
Continental US: Haul Bikes will ship anything sold through Iconic for a starting rate of $750 in the Continental US (prices may increase in rural markets), and Iconic will handle the paperwork on your behalf. You do not need to crate your bike or drain the gas/disconnect the battery if you go with Haul Bikes. We are glad to work with the shipper of your choice as well, but you will have to arrange it.
Please note:
spares/extras will have to be shipped separately via FedEx or similar.
the fee includes $15,000 of insurance with a $500 deductible. Additional insurance can be purchased at a cost of $50 per additional $5,000 of value.
$5,000 for US to Europe/Asia is a VERY ROUGH ballpark which includes transport as well as customs fees and duties. Please contact Shippio for an exact quote.