VS
The 1974 Yamaha RD200 and 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1974 Yamaha RD200 from Japan was powered by a 195cc 2-stroke twin producing 22hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 123.0kg (271 lbs) and with a seat height of 770mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 34hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 180.0kg (397 lbs) with a top speed of 158km/h (98 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1974 Yamaha RD200 from Japan was powered by a 195cc 2-stroke twin producing 22hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 123.0kg (271 lbs) and with a seat height of 770mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 34hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 180.0kg (397 lbs) with a top speed of 158km/h (98 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1974 Yamaha RD200 | 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 195 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 22 hp | 34 hp |
| Torque | 17.0 Nm | 47.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 130 km/h | 158 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 123.0 kg | 180.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 135.0 kg | 193.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1260 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 11.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T has the edge thanks to more power (34hp vs 22hp) and a higher top speed. The 1974 Yamaha RD200, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. For collectors, the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1974 Yamaha RD200
A standard motorcycle from 1974, the 1974 Yamaha RD200 delivers 22hp from its 195cc 2-stroke twin engine.
Full 1974 Yamaha RD200 Profile →About the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T
The 1949 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T is a 649cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Triumph's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.
Full 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T Profile →