Photo: PSParrot from England · CC BY 2.0
Yamaha RD200
78/100 Overall
67 On the road88 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha RD200 vs Kawasaki KH250
Yamaha RD200 scores 78/100 overall against Kawasaki KH250 on 79/100. On the road: 67–63. As classics: 88–95. Overall result: Kawasaki KH250.
Kawasaki KH250
79/100 Overall
63 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD200 | Kawasaki KH250 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 7 | Kawasaki KH250 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha RD200 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 6 | Yamaha RD200 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 6 | Yamaha RD200 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki KH250 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Kawasaki KH250 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 10 | Kawasaki KH250 |
Choose the Yamaha RD200 if…
you want classic Yamaha twin-cylinder two-stroke fun in a light, manageable and beautifully proportioned package.
Choose the Kawasaki KH250 if…
you want the sound and character of a Kawasaki triple in learner-friendly form, with unmistakable 1970s appeal.
Background
History
Yamaha RD200
The Yamaha RD200 was produced from 1973–1979 and used a 195cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, collector appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Kawasaki KH250
The Kawasaki KH250 was produced from 1976–1980 and used a 249cc air-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for collector appeal, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha RD200
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1979.
- The recorded engine description is: 195cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, collector appeal, character.
Kawasaki KH250
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1980.
- The recorded engine description is: 249cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are collector appeal, character, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha RD200
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD200. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Kawasaki KH250
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KH250. Its library score for collector appeal 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
Yamaha RD200
- 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.
Kawasaki KH250
- 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 Yamaha RD200
Rivals to the Kawasaki KH250
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha RD200 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Kawasaki KH250 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki KH250 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.