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The 1976 Yamaha RD400 and 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1976 Yamaha RD400 from Japan was powered by a 398cc 2-stroke twin producing 40hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 153.0kg (337 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special by contrast offered 654cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 205.0kg (452 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 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 1976 Yamaha RD400 from Japan was powered by a 398cc 2-stroke twin producing 40hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 153.0kg (337 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special by contrast offered 654cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 205.0kg (452 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 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
| 1976 Yamaha RD400 | 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 398 cc | 654 cc |
| Power | 40 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 35.0 Nm | 50.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 168 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 153.0 kg | 205.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 166.0 kg | 220.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1976 Yamaha RD400 laid the groundwork with 40hp, while the later 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special pushed output to 50hp. 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. Parts availability is moderate for the 1976 Yamaha RD400 and good for the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →About the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special
The 1978 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special is a 654cc twin-cylinder cruiser that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special Profile →