Yamaha RD
Stemming from Yamaha's two-stroke racing success, the 'Race Developed' RD series offered incredible performance that let it outrun much larger bikes. It's now a collector's favorite for its thrilling, unfiltered riding experience and budget-friendly origins.
Find one with Spotter →Typical sold price of a Yamaha RD ranges from $1,775 to $15,749, based on 133 sales tracked on Hypercars.
The Yamaha RD series was the street-legal result of Yamaha's two-stroke Grand Prix racing success. Known as 'Race Developed', these bikes offered incredible performance for their size, with models like the RD350 and RD400 easily outrunning larger four-stroke competitors. Their combination of a lightweight chassis, potent two-stroke engine, and sharp handling made them a favorite for riders seeking thrills on a budget.
Collectors prize the RD for its raw, unfiltered riding experience and its famous 'power band' rush. It represents the pinnacle of air-cooled two-stroke technology before emissions regulations forced a shift in the industry. The later RD400F Daytona Special and the liquid-cooled RD350LC are especially desirable for their performance and iconic status.
The market for Yamaha RDs is strong, with an average sale price of over $7,000. While project bikes can be found for less, exceptional, low-mileage, or perfectly restored examples regularly exceed $20,000. The active trading shows a sustained appreciation for these giant-killing two-strokes.
Buying Tips
- Perform a compression test. Low or uneven compression can signal worn pistons, rings, or a needed top-end rebuild.
- Inspect the crankshaft seals. Bad seals create air leaks, leading to a lean condition and potential engine seizure. Look for oily residue behind the front sprocket or magneto cover.
- Check the frame for cracks or repairs, especially around the headstock and swingarm mounting points. These bikes were often ridden hard and raced.
- Original exhausts are difficult to find and expensive. Most have aftermarket expansion chambers, which can hurt rideability if the carburetors weren't re-jetted to match.
- Verify the 'Autolube' oil injection system is functional. Many were disconnected in favor of premix fuel, so restoring a non-working system can be complex.
Prices range from $970 for projects to $24,026 for pristine, concours-level examples.
133 Yamaha RD vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars. Sold prices range from $779 to $24,026.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Yamaha RD cost?
Based on 133 sales tracked on Hypercars, Yamaha RD prices typically range from $1,775 to $15,749.