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The 1974 Yamaha TX500 and 1976 Yamaha RD400 represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1974 Yamaha TX500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc DOHC twin producing 48hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 190.0kg (419 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1976 Yamaha RD400 by contrast offered 398cc of 2-stroke twin power, delivering 40hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 153.0kg (337 lbs) with a top speed of 168km/h (104 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 TX500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc DOHC twin producing 48hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 190.0kg (419 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1976 Yamaha RD400 by contrast offered 398cc of 2-stroke twin power, delivering 40hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 153.0kg (337 lbs) with a top speed of 168km/h (104 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 TX500 | 1976 Yamaha RD400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 398 cc |
| Power | 48 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 35.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 168 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 190.0 kg | 153.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 206.0 kg | 166.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1974 Yamaha TX500 laid the groundwork with 48hp, while the later 1976 Yamaha RD400 pushed output to 40hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1976 Yamaha RD400 holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection.
About the 1974 Yamaha TX500
Yamaha released the 1974 Yamaha TX500 in 1974 with a 498cc DOHC twin powerplant making 48hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1974 Yamaha TX500 Profile →About the 1976 Yamaha RD400
Born in 1976, the 1976 Yamaha RD400 is a 398cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 40hp from Yamaha.
Full 1976 Yamaha RD400 Profile →