Posts tagged as “rz350”

Firsts, Lasts – 1984 Yamaha RZ350

Published November 8, 2015 by Donn

At least in the USA, the two-stroke engine was winding down in the mid-1980’s, as the State of California ratcheted down emissions, and the Federal Government applied the fleet concept to motor vehicle manufacturer’s emissions. The final few years were a hodgepodge of catalysts and evaporative emissions canisters, but the sweet handling bikes were quite memorable in their light weight and peaky powerplants.

1984 Yamaha RZ350 for sale on eBay

One of the first perimeter frame motorcycles, the RZ350 has no center backbone, the frame tubes follow and support the bottom of the fuel tank as they progress back toward the swingarm pickup points. The 347cc engine is cradled in between the bottom tubes and generates 60 hp. At the small end of the Yamaha line-up, the RZ350 had plenty beside the 9500 rpm redline to interest experienced riders. Yamaha’s Power Valve System has motorized control of the exhaust port height, extending the torque band substantially. Fairly conventional front suspension with monoshock rear. Brakes are triple 265mm disks, and tires are the same front and rear – 4.10 x 18. But the low weight is what helps all those features work better, with half fuel the bike weighs just 371 lbs.

30 years old with just over 2,100 miles, this survivor is in amazing shape. Original turn signals are still there, along with plastic trim and reflectors on the radiator, and filler panels below the front of the fuel tank. The single seat looks great, though the dual seat fairing is also included. From the eBay auction:

What an incredible time capsule! Runs flawlessly. Look at close up of carburetors, still has the factory idle screw setting.
I have only owned this bike a short time but I did have the brakes flushed, tires changed and cable lubed. I have decided not to
ride this bike because the mileage IS so incredibly low (2135).
I have the original tires (pictured) and I have the dual seat cover (pictured). The only flaws are tiny and there are two of them on the tank (pictured).
Inside the tank is a baffle, it has slight rust on it. This one has the red frame! Not sure how many came with the red frame.
I believe even though it does not have the signature on the cowl it is still the Kenny Roberts special RZ.

Identical to the Kenny Roberts signature edition in every way except the paint ( and signature ), the red, white and blue model has its own appeal. At this age new caliper seals and brake lines would have to be considered, as would checking the wheel and steering head bearings. But if you were inclined to continue this beauty’s modeling career, they could stay as they are…

-donn

6 Responses.

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

Published July 20, 2015 by Tad Diemer

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

6 Responses.

Buzzy Little Bee: 1985 Yamaha RZ350 for Sale

Published June 21, 2015 by Tad Diemer

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

10 Responses.

Sensible Tribute – 1984 Yamaha RZ350 Rainey

Published May 2, 2015 by Donn

Looking for all the world like Wayne Rainey’s 1990 YZR500 GP bike, this sparkling tribute is a lot more streetable than an expert-only RZ500 race replica. Based on a titled RZ350, this machine has been treated to a full race fairing from Air-tech Streamlining, as well as a comprehensive rebuild. Appearing well-sorted and immaculately finished, this street legal race replica should be fun on the street or at the track.

An AMA Hall of Fame inductee and fitting recipient for a fan’s tribute, Wayne Rainey won the 500cc GP Championships in 1990 through 1992 with the Team Roberts. His riding career was cut short by a series of accidents in 1993 leaving him a paraplegic, but he continued as a team manager and race organizer, and is still racing in a hand-controlled superkart.

1984 Yamaha RZ350 for sale on eBay

With the YPVS electronically controlled exhaust port, the little 350 put out around 50hp and 32 ft-lbs. torque, the power curve less peaky. An overall lightweight package at under 350 lbs., it has a six-speed transmission, adjustable suspension, and three 280mm disk brakes. Some of the updates to this example include expansion chambers with carbon mufflers, steering damper, and braided brake lines.

From the eBay auction:

84 RZ, airtech fairing, custom paint, Suzuki Katana gauges,(and they actually all work) Jim Lomas pipes. Braided lines, fork brace, teleflex clip ons, steering damper, stock rear shock and swing arm, front forks pretty freshly rebuilt with progressive springs.

Engine has about 2,000 miles on it. Hot rod crank, trued and welded. Wiseco pistons, cylinders bored one over, milled head. Ports are stock, has TDR reeds, new clutch. Properly jetted, has a newish CDI from RZs unlimited I think.

Bike is setup with no battery, lossless, starts on 1-3 kicks, oil injection is still in place. Very well sorted and a lot of fun to ride and look at. A lot of time and money has been spent on it. Chain and sprockets in great shape, rubber is good, overall a very nice midly custom RZ, it is clean, looks great and is ready to ride.

Maybe a bit of a sheep in wolf’s clothing, but the power delivery of a 350 two-stroke is like a more modern 600, and lighter weight makes it easier to straighten out the corners. With its up-to-date maintenance and excellent cosmetics, this RZ350 looks ready to achieve lots of fun, the ultimate goal of any bike !

Can’t really say it better than the owner:

Bikes like this make most people smile; even non motorcycle people. They make politicians, bureaucrats and other authoritarians cringe…so you know it’s something Good. Honest. Righteous.

-donn

3 Responses.

Never Been Smoked… Yamaha RZ350 with 10 miles

Published March 5, 2015 by Mike M.

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.

25 Responses.

Hot Yellow Smoker: 1985 Yamaha RZ350

Published December 3, 2014 by Mike

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.

One Response.

This one is a 10! 1985 Yamaha RZ350

Published November 5, 2014 by Mike

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?

6 Responses.

Craigslist Gems: 10 Mile Yamaha RZ350 and 350 Mile Ducati 750 F1A

Published September 10, 2014 by Dan

First up is this submission from regular reader and frequent commentor “SixthGear” in this 1985 Yamaha RZ350 that reportedly has 10 miles. It’s listed in San Francisco for $13,500.

The second bike was emailed to me by several readers for consideration. We’ve actually seen this one before in this post but I agree that this 350 mile Ducati 750 F1A is worth noting again. It’s listed in New York for a little less than $30k.

Thanks to everyone for their submissions!

3 Responses.