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 1992 Suzuki GSF400 Bandit by contrast offered 398cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 59hp at 12000rpm. Tipping the scales at 178.0kg (392 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 | 1992 Suzuki GSF400 Bandit | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 398 cc | 398 cc |
| Power | 40 hp | 59 hp |
| Torque | 35.0 Nm | 35.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 168 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 153.0 kg | 178.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 166.0 kg | 194.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1976 Yamaha RD400 is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1992 Suzuki GSF400 Bandit targets versatile street riding and daily commuting. On paper, the 1992 Suzuki GSF400 Bandit's 59hp trumps the 1976 Yamaha RD400's 40hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1976 Yamaha RD400 if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1992 Suzuki GSF400 Bandit for versatile street riding and daily commuting. Parts availability is moderate for the 1976 Yamaha RD400 and good for the 1992 Suzuki GSF400 Bandit — 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 1992 Suzuki GSF400 Bandit
Suzuki released the 1992 Suzuki GSF400 Bandit in 1992 with a 398cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 59hp — a definitive naked bike.
Full 1992 Suzuki GSF400 Bandit Profile →