RD250 & RD400 (1A2, 1A3) 1975-80

Birth of Yamaha RD400

To continue in success and popularity of the "race developed" RD350, Yamaha in summer 1975 introduced a direct successor - the RD 400 series. Early Yamaha RD250 also continued with slight modification into the new era with most parts similar and identical to the new 1976 Yamaha RD400.

The new RD400 model was immediately branded as best of the RD series Yamaha built. It’s popularity was magnified by 1 year warranty with unlimited mileage provided by the Japanese manufacturer.

Both Yamaha RD 250 & Yamaha RD 400 have air-cooled twin parallel two stroke engines and autolube oil injection. In comparison to the RD350, the new RDs received: upgrade to the intake system, new reed valves, single piston disc front and rear brakes and cast wheels (wire spoke on 1976 Yamaha RD250). Yamaha RD 400 received a brand new 399cc rubber mounted engine that was free of vibrations. Both models had lots of chrome parts, lots of power and were made to last!

Yamaha RD 400 Improvements over time 

In 1978 CDI induction was introduced and foot pegs were placed above the exhaust pipes, which now had longer mufflers and thicker manifolds.

1979 the RD400 diversified to meet stricter emission legislation throughout North America. To commemorate Daytona racing stars Kenny Roberts and Mike Baldwin, the new model was named Daytona Special. The main differences between US and Canadian version was ignition system and modifications to carbs and exhaust system.

Nowadays both models are in a restoration boom, with motorcycle enthusiasts revamping their rusty barn finds into stunning Yamaha cafe racers and custom projects. To find an original RD400 is an equivalent of finding a treasure.

Yamaha RD400 Parts

Most of the original Yamaha RD250 Parts and RD400 cafe parts are already discontinued. To fill in the gap and help keep these legendary motorbikes on the road, we decided to offer a whole range of quality reproductions of Yamaha RD 400 spare parts and RD250 parts.

We now have over one hundred Yamaha RD 250 & Yamaha RD 400 parts now in stock and keep adding more. If you can’t find the part you are looking for, please email us as we will do our best to source it out. We also offer FREE shipping for any order over 70 Euro.

For further information about 79 RD400 Daytona Special models and their history visit The Morocyclist Online.

The test drive review can be found on Trade Motorcycles.

There is also lots of help available from fellow motorcycle enthusiasts on the Aircooled RD Forum

If you require parts diagram or parts list for any above, please contact us.