Posts by tag: Kenny Roberts

Yamaha August 28, 2015 posted by Donn

Simple and Effective – 1985 Yamaha RZ-350 Kenny Roberts Edition

These days, it’s longer to tell what’s not onboard the RZ-350 than what is. One of the last two-strokes in the U.S. market, there is no ECU, no 3-way adjustable dampers, no anti-dive, no traction control, no speed shifter, no fuel injection, no anti-lock brakes, etc., etc. Just 375 lbs., 50 ponies, and maybe you.

1985 Yamaha RZ-350 Kenny Roberts Edition for sale on eBay

Not completely without modern equipment, the RZ-350 did have YPVS, the electronically-controlled exhaust port, which improved rideability. But in most other ways it was just plain riding, a 350cc two-stroke introduced in 1983, the 1985 year having a lightweight bikini fairing and red-white colors. A 6-speed transmission helps keep the 350cc twin on the boil. Air-preload forks are complemented by monoshock rear suspension. Triple-disk brakes make more space between telephone poles. 4.10 x 18 front and rear tires are on pretty light looking wheels.

A number of racey mods update this RZ350 – catalyst-equipped exhaust removed in favor of expansion chambers with mufflers, and handling enhancements up front include fork brace and steering damper. The oil metering pump has been secured in favor of pre-mix, a standard racetrack update. Otherwise the bike looks clean and original.

Though just five of the last 30 years are accounted for, the owner says in the eBay auction:

Collector quality 1985 Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts Signature Edition with only 8889 actual miles in excellent condition. All original paint and engine. Has Toomey pipes, Daytona fork brace and a steering stabilizer that appear to be period correct. The oil pump has been disabled and is set up for pre-mix only, very common safety modification. I have the dowel pin and instructions from the original owner if you want to put it back to stock. I also have the original pipes as well as all the smog components, hoses etc. Bike also has its original tool kit and manual. Bike starts, runs, drives, stops, and idles as it should. Mechanically sound. The tires, while having plenty of tread, are starting to get weather checked. I have lovingly owned and enjoyed this bike in my collection for the last 5 years.

Might want to replace or make a close inspection of those tires and other wear parts, but this looks to be a great very sporty RZ…

-donn

Simple and Effective – 1985 Yamaha RZ-350 Kenny Roberts Edition

Yamaha July 20, 2015 posted by Tad Diemer

Two-Stroke Resto-Mod: 1984 Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts Replica

While many motorcycle fans are sticklers for originality, I take a more flexible view: basically, if you make changes, even significant ones to the bike, but manage to maintain the spirit of the original, I’m probably on board. And while this Yamaha RZ350 isn’t quite stock, the seller obviously wanted to stay close to the look and feel of the original, with suspension improvements that should make the bike even more fun to ride.

If you live in the US and want a sports two-stroke of recent vintage, you’re likely looking at some tired ex-Japanese market bike imported through Canada and now of very questionable provenance. Or you’re looking at an Aprilia RS250.

Two-stroke fans here have found slim pickings in the last 20 years or so, but it wasn’t always that way. Back in the 1980’s, that glorious era of neon, Nagel prints, big hair, and slightly ridiculous motorcycle acronyms, two-strokes were still popular, and enough people cherished their RZ350’s that they’re some of the most accessible sports two-strokes available here in the US. Sure, there are some thrashed bikes out there, but it’s not too hard to find well-preserved examples if you look.

Which is especially surprising, considering they were produced only between 1984 and 1985. The bikini-faired sportbike was powered by a 347cc two-stroke parallel twin that was evolved from the RD350, but added liquid cooling to the package, along with Yamaha’s YPVS which, as you can probably guess, stood for “Yamaha Power Valve System.”

At the time, the RZ350 was a serious back road tool and was one of the best-handling bikes available at any price, and required rider involvement to maximize the two-stroke powerband.

From the original eBay listing: 1984 Yamaha RZ350 for Sale

Great bike that needs nothing, I’m selling to fund my Aprilia RS250 project. Specs below:

Motor:

200 miles on fresh top end and crank rebuild. Crank was trued and welded, Wiseco pistons on 2nd oversize bore. OEM head gasket. Zeeltronic CDI (non- programmable). Genuine Keihin PWK 28 flat slide carbs, uni pod filters and quick turn throttle with custom cable and aftermarket kill switch. Banshee adjustable ignition timing plate (currently running +3 degrees from stock). Allspeed expansion chambers that were repacked and powder coated black (sound great, not too loud). Oversized aluminum radiator. The carbs are jetted properly (if not a little rich) and the bike runs great. Starts on the 2nd kick cold, idles nice, pulls hard and is extremely smooth. Setup for 40:1 premix and premium pump gas.

Chassis:

Aluminum FZ600 swingarm (professionally machined to fit in the RZ frame). Fox shock with ride height adjustment. FZR wheels (new bearings, powder coated black). The sprocket carrier was machined for proper chain alignment with the wider rear tire. FZR forks (fresh rebuild),triple trees and clip-ons, tapered head bearings. FZR brakes front and rear, stainless rear line. New chain and sprockets, chain is a gold o-ring 520. New tires. The bike handles and stops very well.

Body:

All of the paint was redone with reproduction decals and professional clear coat. Reproduction solo cowl with bump pad. Inside of gas tank is rust free, it was professionally coated by a radiator shop. Manual style petcock. OEM seat with no rips or tears. Custom laser cut stainless bracket to mount the OEM fairing and gauges to the FZR triple clamps (looks factory). The frame has original paint and has a few minor scratches and nicks but overall is very presentable. I left off the horns and turn signals for a clean look but the wiring is still there if you want to add them. The rear fender was also eliminated and tail light tucked up a little higher. Included are the stock rear fender and tail light bracket.

Full disclosure: The motor numbers and frame numbers do not match. The original engine cases had damage to one of the crank bearing journals and it was decided to use a different set of cases. Clean title in hand which matches the numbers on the frame. The damaged cases with matching numbers will be included. The odometer shows 2400 miles but I have no idea if that mileage is accurate or if they are even the original gauges. It doesn’t really matter since everything on the bike from the ground up is essentially new or rebuilt.

Bidding is up to $3,999, but there’s plenty of time left on the auction. The seller has obviously put plenty of work into it, but will purists balk at the changes?

-tad

Two-Stroke Resto-Mod: 1984 Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts Replica

Yamaha June 21, 2015 posted by Tad Diemer

Buzzy Little Bee: 1985 Yamaha RZ350 for Sale

Yamaha made a name for itself in the US building giant-killing two-stroke parallel twins that powered the RD and later RZ models like this 1985 RZ350. The 347cc engine reatured liquid-cooling and made over 40hp stock, with plenty more available with careful tuning. While Honda largely focused on their heavy, but very sophisticated two and four-cylinder CB motorcycles, Yamaha’s whippy little two-strokes terrorized backroads and race tracks all over American and Europe, creating a cult following that persists to this day.

Two-strokes have never lacked top-end power, but their light-switch power delivery left something to be desired for street riders and, in th 1980’s Acronym Wars, the “power valve” was born. Yamaha’s version was, of course, known as the YPVS that used a computer to adjust the exhaust ports. The “Yamaha Power Valve System” plumped up the midrange of the raspy little two-stroke, meaning you could have your cake and eat it, too. Assuming you didn’t mind a little blue smoke in your eyes…

From the original eBay listing: 1985 Yamaha RZ350 for Sale

The 1985 Kenny Roberts Edition RZ350LC offered here is one of the quite rare leftover models with revised graphics that somewhat resembled the 1983 UK versions, but with gold rims and the Kenny Roberts signature, originally sold as an RZ350NC2 in California only from late 1985-6. It has been owned from new by only two enthusiasts and has been very tastefully modified with an original 1985 full fairing and Corbin Gunfighter single seat. Mechanically, the hugely desirable Pro-Design Cool Head was installed for increased cooling, and a Toomey exhaust.

The bike runs exceptionally well. It starts easily, idles well and has great power delivery. It shifts through all gears perfectly with a good clutch. Suspension feels taut and the brakes work very well, front and rear. Cosmetically the bike is in good condition with the usual scuffs of a bike with 17,000 miles, that is 32 years old.

The bike comes with a clean, clear California title and a substantial box of spare parts, including stock fairing, original exhaust pipes, turn signals, etc.

These are not bikes for the inexperienced or faint-hearted, with huge wheelie-popping performance on tap when the revs rise.

This particular RZ350 features a very stylish full-fairing that I’ve seen on several bikes for sale recently. I’m not sure if it was a factory option or not but, painted to match, makes for a very nice machine with light weight and bike-bike style. Parts availability to keep an RZ running should be no problem, but the included spare parts is just icing on the cake.

A price of $6,900 means you’re looking at the higher-end in terms of pricing for these, but it looks like you’re getting a well cared-for, thoughtfully-improved, and very practical classic for your money.

-tad

Buzzy Little Bee: 1985 Yamaha RZ350 for Sale

Yamaha March 5, 2015 posted by Mike M.

Never Been Smoked… Yamaha RZ350 with 10 miles

We just saw a very nice NS400R and now we have this immaculate RZ350 with just 10 miles on the clocks. It wasn’t a powerhouse, but Yamaha’s claimed 55hp combined with a dry weight of just 305lbs made for a very engaging riding experience. As long as you keep the revs and corner speed up, it was a backroads canyon carver that could leave bigger bikes in a cloud of blue smoke when the roads got twisty.

Mint Condition 1985 Yamaha RZ350 with just 10 miles!!

This particular example is sure to cause the never ending ride it/display it debate to rage on. It only has 10 miles on the clocks and appears flawless. This is another case where the eBay description doesn’t say much, because the pictures do all of the talking, but you can read the seller’s input here:

“RZ 350year 1985 2 stroke – Liquid Cooled, YPVS, TWINCompression 6.0 : 16 Speed TransmissionClassic White/Red Kenny Roberts ColoringI am not interested in any tradesPink Slip says 1985, but I am getting hit up that the tank is an 1984? it came out of the crate as is. thanks for an extra fee I can have you meet Kenny Roberts when you pick it up.”

Whether it’s the low miles, the fantastic condition or the flashbacks to what was the first “fast” bike for a lot of riders, there is plenty of interest. The bidding is fast and furious and is approaching $10,000 in the first 24 hours!

-Matt M.

Never Been Smoked… Yamaha RZ350 with 10 miles

Yamaha December 3, 2014 posted by Mike

Hot Yellow Smoker: 1985 Yamaha RZ350

When it comes to the RZ350, examples fall into three basic groups: Stone stock (the most rare), nicely modified models with tasty pipes and suspension, and rat bikes thrashed within an inch of their poor parallel twin lives and then tarted up for a quick sale (most common). While RZs are climbing in value overall, it is the stockers that have the most collectible value in the future. Lightly modified bikes are nice for riding, but stock will always be preferred in the collector domain.

1985 Yamaha RZ350 for sale on eBay

The first thing that jumped out at me was the stock appearance of the exhaust system. The original RZ had a very complex system integrated into the stock chambers which included air injection and a very compact catalytic converter. These pipes were heavy and did not offer the performance of true expansion chambers, but they did allow for the RZ to be 50 state certified – for a short while anyway. Also in attendance on this particular bike is the charcoal canister and a evaporative system (more smog related items, primarily for California). These are parts that usually “accidentally” fall off during pre-ride prep. The inclusion of these two items goes a long way to helping verify this as a stock – and therefore collectable – RZ. The finish on the pipes has more shine than I recall, but that is not necessarily an issue. Your mileage may vary.

From the seller:
I have an excellent 1985 Yamaha RZ350 for sale. It is a low mile bike in beautiful condition. The body work is mint with a deep shine. The frame, motor and chambers look good with only a couple rub marks on the frame like front the seat etch. This bike is part of a collection and is only ridden around the neighborhood a few times a year to keep it running well. It runs, rides and shifts like it should. No known mechanical issues or leaks. It appears to have all original equipment like stock chambers, oil injection, center stand and tool kit. I run the oil injection and pre-mix in the tank. It smokes a bit like that but mostly at startup. Once warm it’s minimal. Even with all the extra oil it never fouls plugs and always starts up. I am not an expert on originality so if something is important to you please ask. The only issues I know of are a clicking noise from the chain last time I rode it and the plastic around the ignition switch is missing. The chain I believe is from s sticky link from sitting. I sprayed a lot of lube to see if that fixes it.

This appears to be a nearly 30 year old motorcycle in original condition. The odo shows just under 13,000 miles, so I would anticipate some usual wear from the years and the road. The seller comes across to me as a forthright individual, and even notes that a pre-purchase inspection is an option if you are local (the bike is located in Florida). The best part: this bike is priced at a very realistic $6k USD BIN. There is also an auction, with the current bid just crossing $3k with reserve in place. That is very fair money for an RZ. If you like ’em stock, you’d better put a watch on this one. Check it out, and then let us know what you think.

Yamaha November 5, 2014 posted by Mike

This one is a 10! 1985 Yamaha RZ350

The last of the factory two strokes to be imported into the United States (and even California!), the RZ350 continues to be a fan favorite despite the relative lack of rarity. A decent RZ can be found pretty much any day of the week in the US or just across the border in Canada. The trick is finding one worth the effort; many RZs have been thrashed within an inch of their screaming two stroke lives and then hung out to dry. Today’s RZ is a little different. If you want original, this one looks like it. If you want clean and not abused, this just could be your bike. If you want low miles, this one has but TEN. Claimed to have been in a private collection, this “new” RZ is located in California and looking for a new home. To my eye it needs some vitamin D courtesy of the warm California sunshine, and plenty of exercise. A regular regiment up Malibu canyon could work. Any takers?

1985 Yamaha RZ350 with 10 miles on eBay!

From the seller:
One of a kind. Just came out of a private collection. Has never been in the sun for more than 20 minutes. Pristine collectors bike. Not going into tons of detail. Google brand new RZ350 and that is what you get.

I definitely hear this bike whispering my name (somewhat hoarsely, as it has not had a voice in a long, long time). Unfortunately I am not feeling a lot of love from the seller. For such an unbelievable offering (nearly brand new RZ350, not restored or resto-modded) this bike deserves some great, high resolution pictures and LOTS more information. Yes, we all know about (and love!) the venerable RZ, but this feels like a half-hearted attempt. I do not fault a fortunate (or savvy) individual who is looking to score 15 large US greenbacks off of this opportunity – after all, there are nearly none of these bikes left in this type of condition – but as a lover of the breed this bike deserves better billing. At least the model year was corrected (was listed as 1987).

I’m sure there is someone out there with the desire and the means to own this bike…I can only hope that if it sells it will get to run free on American highways once again. The world needs a little more ring-a-ding-ding; especially California. And using the stock exhausts with cats in the pipes you can even feel good about the noxious fumes. Take that, Prius pilot! Check out the scant details here, and let us know what you think. Would you ride it?

Yamaha March 14, 2014 posted by Mike

Super Clean 1985 Yamaha RZ350 in Florida

Touted as a museum quality example of the breed, this 1985 Yamaha RZ350 has just over 16,000 miles and still sports the original exhaust and all plastics intact. From the number and quality of the pictures, this looks to be a fine ride indeed! If you’ve been watching RZs and see them float by in various states of tune with different modifications, here might be your chance to grab a stone stock example.

1985 Yamaha RZ350 for sale on eBay

From the seller:
WHEN ONLY THE VERY FINEST WILL DO.MUSEUM QUALITY,1985 YAMAHA RZ350.COMPLETELY STOCK.UNTOUCHED,UNRESTORED, UNMOLESTED!!! BONE STOCK ORIGINAL!!!!.THIS IS THE NICEST 1985 RZ350 I HAVE EVER SEEN.ALL ORIGINAL.NOT A DENT,DING ANYWHERE.ORIGINAL STOCK EXHAUST SYSTEM IS MINT,NO DENTS OR DINGS.STOCK FACTORY AIR BOX,FUEL TANK IS MINT INSIDE AND OUT WITH NOT A DENT OR DING.THE ORIGINAL PAINT IS BEAUTIFUL.SEAT IS PERFECT,THE BIKE RUNS AS NEW.EVERYTHING ON THIS BIKE WORKS AS IT SHOULD.THIS BIKE IS AS CLOSE TO JUST COMING OUT OF THE CRATE THAT YOU WILL FIND.LOOK VERY CLOSELY AT ALL 24 PICTURES PROVIDED.TRANSMISSION PERFECT,CLUTCH PERFECT,150LBS OF COMPRESSION ON BOTH CYLINDERS.YOU WILL NOT HAVE A CHANCE LIKE THIS AGAIN TO OWN A KENNY ROBERTS YELLOW AND BLACK IN THIS PRISTINE CONDITION.STARTS FIRST KICK.NEEDS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.NO DISSAPOINTMENTS HERE.

RZ350s are a hot commodity these days, and these bikes always seem to be a fan favorite (you RSBFS readers and Facebookers know who you are). What’s not to like? It makes all the right noises and smells, has great graphics and parking lot appeal, and sports King Kenny’s sig right on the fairing. Check out LOTS of pictures here. Good Luck!

Super Clean 1985 Yamaha RZ350 in Florida

Yamaha March 8, 2014 posted by Mike

Another 30 Year Old: 1984 Yamaha RZ350

Official poll: Who is starting to feel old? Can you imagine that this RZ350, the last officially imported street legal two stroke in the US, is pushing the big three-0? Does that make you want one any less? I didn’t think so.

1984 Yamaha RZ350 for sale on eBay

This RZ looks to have had a busy life. The seller notes that it is on its 4th overbore. If you are an optimist, that spells more capacity! But then, two strokes have always been about the ease of top end servicing, and honing/re-boring is not an uncommon practice. Looks like this owner knew a bit about what he was doing, and there are some tasty mods to this ride.

From the seller:
1984 yamaha Kenny Roberts special 21k miles… And still riding.. Fresh top end bore.. Pistons pins brgs etc.. Less than 100 miles!!!
Full spec 2 fiberglass fairing.nose has 4 small drill holes as seen in close up …RARE!! Factory SOLO seat cowl and original included..new clutch plates.. Motor on 4th over..new YAMAHA crankshaft+ clutch basket
On last re-build 7k ago.. Motor has full TOOMEY porting from the 90s … Shaved head .40 aftermarket chambers NEW and reeds.. Rebuilt
Carbs with toomey kit in them.. This bike is FAST!!! Idles smooth all day.. Rebuilt oil pump..braided brake lines, steering stabilizer ,fork brace
Rebuilt forks and tapered head brgs installed..I have owned this bike the last 22 year.. Exept a 4 year stint with my friend.. Now it’s back … It WAS on the track back in the day .. Never crashed there!!..fell over in lot once.. Needs only new tires… Ready to GO
Tank repainted and is truly FLAWLESS !! Seat perfect.. No tear…. Everthing works.. Goes and stops GREAT! ALL fluids fresh ..
Clear clear NJ title in hand .. bike in NC ……those funny red marks on a couple pics ..are on the camera.. NOT..the bike
Delivery to bike week daytona available for a $$
Original tool kit and POUCH with strap .. In place…
Starts on FIRST KICK!

Prices have been on the rise for a decent RZ350 – and this one definitely applies. Current bid is below $4,000 at time of writing, making this a potential bargain RZ. The Spec 2 fairing is a nice touch, Toomey mods are period correct, and overall this is what you might expect to find when it comes to a bike this age that has been truly enjoyed. This machine is now looking for its next home. Any room in your stable? Check out the details here.