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The 1976 Yamaha RD400 and 1979 Yamaha XS1100 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 1979 Yamaha XS1100 by contrast offered 1101cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 95hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 268.0kg (591 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 1979 Yamaha XS1100 by contrast offered 1101cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 95hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 268.0kg (591 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 | 1979 Yamaha XS1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 398 cc | 1101 cc |
| Power | 40 hp | 95 hp |
| Torque | 35.0 Nm | 89.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 168 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 153.0 kg | 268.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 166.0 kg | 290.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1360 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 22.0 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 1979 Yamaha XS1100 pushed output to 95hp. 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 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 1979 Yamaha XS1100
Introduced in 1979, the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 features a 1101cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 95hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.
Full 1979 Yamaha XS1100 Profile →