Since classic motorcycles are currently in fashion, many ‘bike-heads’ are switching to older models. If we go back in time, we’ll get an endless list of high-quality motorcycles. The manufacturing processes were completely different then than they are today. Yet you can still see the precision and quality of work prevalent even to this date.
One classic motorcycle that stands out from the rest is the 1976 Yamaha RD400. In the 1970s it was one of the most exciting vehicles on the market. It was a ‘game-changer’ of motorcycles. This classic bike set new benchmarks for motorcycle performance. It was an upgrade from an earlier 350CC model. It’s safe to say that this newer version is still in the minds of all motorcycle enthusiasts.
The motorcycle was almost revolutionary in terms of rider safety. Nowadays, the latest models come with LED lighting for greater visibility. Manufacturers are even experimenting by lowering the horsepower, just to manage safety of the rider.
RD400 is one of the rare retro motorcycles that has managed to keep its uniqueness even after 50 years of being released. For motorcycle enthusiasts, this classic model is still as exciting. Some enthusiastic fans of the vintage Yamaha RD400 will even claim that this motorcycle will outperform even some modern-day bikes.
Are these claims true or mere exaggerations? Read these five quick facts about this celebrated motorcycle –
5 Interesting Facts About the Yamaha RD400
- History
Did you know that this classic motorcycle was launched five different times with five different names? Each model represented a year of progression. The models were –
- 1976 – RD400C
- 1977 – RD400D & DX in Europe
- 1978 – RD400E
- 1979 – RD400F
- 1980 – RD400G
Every year, the motorcycle registered record buyers. Even though yearly upgrades weren’t anything extraordinary, motorcycle lovers across the world couldn’t wait to get their hands on this revolutionary bike. This Yamaha motorcycle was one of the most talked-about vehicles of the decade. It was an instant hit for the bike lovers.
The motorcycle was priced around the $4000 mark. It was mainly popular in the USA and some European countries. Even though the rest of the world was hidden from this high-quality bike, its appeal is currently global as bikers from all around the world name this model as a must-have for their dream collection. In a way, the RD400 series (C-G) represented the vibrancy of the 70s.
2. Unmatched Style and an Impeccable Design
Almost all classic motorcycles feature unique styling and design patterns. For instance, many retro bikes come with polished body and in bright colors.
However, even if lined-up with other classic motorcycle models, the RD400 series would stand out.
Unlike other motorcycles at the time, the RD400 came with a super-sleek fuel tank. What made riding these motorcycles even more fun was the alloy wheels.
The RD400 series was one of the first to use alloy wheels, and they added a degree of flair and classiness to the riding experiences.
Back in the day, motorcycles were designed in all types of colours. Yet, the classic sporty striped colour combination looked the best. The colour made these motorcycles with limited displacement capacities look like ‘beasts.’
3. Power Consumption
The bike came equipped with a two-stroke twin-cylinder engine (398cc). It offers a max power of 44HP at 7500 rotations per minute.
The engine also featured a six-speed gearbox. Understandably the powerful machine weighed well over 170kgs, making it one of the heaviest Yamaha motorcycles to ever exist. Only new models like Yamaha YZF-R3 can compare with the RD400 in terms of pure weight.
4. Dimensions & Capabilities
- Top Speed – 172 kilometres per hour (20 miles per second)
- Mileage – 18.28 km
- Starting System – Kick
- Rear Suspension – Dual Shocks
- Front Suspension – Telescopic Forks
- Rear Brake – 267mm Disc
- Front Brake – 267mm Disc
- Oil Capacity – 1.8-litres
- Fuel Tank – 16.5-litres
- Wet Weight – 171 kg
- Dry Weight – 165.5 kg
- Wheelbase – 1320mm
- Overall Height – 1060mm
- Overall Width – 760mm
- Overall Length – 1995mm
- Max. Torque – 41.1 Nm (at 7000rpm)
- Max. Power – 44 HP (at 7500rpm)
- Fuel System – Carburettor
- Cooling- Air Cooled
Availability
As Yamaha RD400 is a vintage bike and has not been in production for over 40 years, it is hard to get one from any dealer. The only option is to purchase one from an auction. If you are lucky enough, you might find one stacked at the back of your dad’s garage or advertised for sale in local papers as a “barn find” or “restoration project”.
