Post Sale Update: AFter 41 bids, this Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts did not meet reserve on eBay at $4,650.
The last two-stroke officially imported into the US, the Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts is very much a sought-after collectors bike in the US. Only sold in the states from 84-85, these were the first bikes in the US to come equipped with catalytic converters. It was also the first Yamaha street bike in the US to use a perimeter frame – as is clear from the next photo:
Estimated production of these bikes was around 20,000 – accidents and time have worn down that number significantly. You’ll note the YPVS acronym on the engine: that stands for Yamaha Power Valve System, a computer-controlled valve that could adjust exhaust port timing. This enabled increased torque at low RPMs while maintaining horsepower higher up in the rev band. This bike is a sought after collectors model, especially in the United States as it was specifically marketed as a limited edition in the states. While this bike has no track time, many of its brethren are used in vintage races (there are even RZ350 specific races all over the country).
This specific Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts has just 10,600 miles over its nearly 30 year life. Interestingly enough, it’s currently being offered by the same dealership that sold this bike brand new. It’s had just two owners, and seems to be 100% stock, except for the unfortunate inclusion of decals with the dealer’s name on the rear fender.
Find this Yamaha RZ350 Kenny Roberts for sale here on eBay. After 27 bids, the action is up to $3,150 with the reserve not yet met in Warren, Ohio.