Honda NS400R
85/100 Overall
72 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda NS400R vs Yamaha RD400
Honda NS400R scores 85/100 overall against Yamaha RD400 on 81/100. On the road: 72–73. As classics: 98–88. Overall result: Honda NS400R.
Photo: Schreiberling58 · CC BY-SA 3.0
Yamaha RD400
81/100 Overall
73 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda NS400R | Yamaha RD400 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 7 | Honda NS400R |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 7 | Yamaha RD400 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | Yamaha RD400 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 8 | Honda NS400R |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 8 | Honda NS400R |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Honda NS400R |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Honda NS400R if…
you want a compact, beautifully balanced Honda race replica with unusual V3 character and strong 1980s collector appeal.
Choose the Yamaha RD400 if…
you want sharp two-stroke performance, light handling and one of Yamaha's most entertaining road motorcycles.
Background
History
Honda NS400R
The Honda NS400R was produced from 1985–1987 and used a 387cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V3. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and styling. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Yamaha RD400
The Yamaha RD400 was produced from 1976–1979 and used a 398cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, handling, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda NS400R
- Its production span in this library runs from 1985 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 387cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V3.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and styling.
Yamaha RD400
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1979.
- The recorded engine description is: 398cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, handling, collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda NS400R
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda NS400R. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Yamaha RD400
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD400. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Honda NS400R
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection system, crank seals, cooling system and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Yamaha RD400
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Honda NS400R
Rivals to the Yamaha RD400
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha RD400 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda NS400R wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda NS400R takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.