The last in the long line of Yamaha’s RD series, the RD400F (also known as the Daytona Special) is considered by many to be the best of the model line.
The press went nuts for it – Cycle magazine called it “Dennis the Menace on Yokohama tires, and is the most fun street motorcycle currently available for sale.” Compared to the RD350, the extra 50cc brought a lot more civility. The engine was more flexible, though you could still easily wheelie the bike in 2nd gear. It was the perfect example of how the RD series had evolved from a hooligan’s toy into a more refined, but still enjoyable, sport bike.
This example (VIN: 2V0003356) was acquired by the seller “10 years ago with the intention of riding it.” At the time, it was prepped to be ridden with a new battery, brake lines, and tires. But the seller decided the bike was too nice to ride so he bought another ’79 Daytona Special to put miles on instead. That may have been a good idea from an investment standpoint as the odometer shows just 28 miles. The seller states that the bike is in original condition and it’s not a restoration. It’s California-plated with registration through March 2024.
The seller says, “just turn the key and go back to 1979 forever…summer is coming soon!” Find this Daytona Special for sale in Sacramento, California with an asking price of $19,500 here on eBay.