Sensible Tribute – 1984 Yamaha RZ350 Rainey

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,…

V4 Victory – 1985 Yamaha RZV500R

After the late 1970’s domination of the 500cc Grands Prix by Yamaha and Kenny Roberts, and the ’80s comeback and 1984 championship with Eddie Lawson aboard, Yamaha introduced a racey 500cc two-stroke for the street.  Known variously as the RZ500 and the RD500LC, the bike was never available for U.S. dealers ( though many have…

Got Wayne? 1985 Yamaha RZ500 in Florida

RSBFS is on a RZ500 roll these days, and here is another gorgeous V4 smoker. Unlike the stock bikes found last week, this particular example appears to be a well-built hot rod and sports the awesome Marlboro colors reminiscent of the glory days of Wayne Rainey. This bike has a lot of high-end pieces on…

Borderline: Stock 1985 Yamaha RZ500 in Canada

RZ500 models from Yamaha are a continual RSBFS fan favorite, and here is an interesting one. Purported to be stock with the usual wear and tear, this one has 20k+ miles, with an engine rebuild fewer than 500 miles ago. The seller doesn’t state how comprehensive the rebuild was (top end only? rings? overbore?), but…