Photo: Schreiberling58 · CC BY-SA 3.0
Yamaha RD400
81/100 Overall
73 On the road88 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha RD400 vs Kawasaki KH400
Yamaha RD400 scores 81/100 overall against Kawasaki KH400 on 81/100. On the road: 73–67. As classics: 88–95. Overall result: A draw.
Photo: PSParrot from England · CC BY 2.0
Kawasaki KH400
81/100 Overall
67 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD400 | Kawasaki KH400 | 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 | 7 | Yamaha RD400 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 6 | Yamaha RD400 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 6 | Yamaha RD400 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki KH400 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki KH400 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Kawasaki KH400 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Yamaha RD400 if…
you want sharp two-stroke performance, light handling and one of Yamaha's most entertaining road motorcycles.
Choose the Kawasaki KH400 if…
you want charismatic Kawasaki triple-cylinder performance in a more manageable package than the larger Mach models.
Background
History
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.
Kawasaki KH400
The Kawasaki KH400 was produced from 1976–1978 and used a 400cc 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 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.
Kawasaki KH400
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1978.
- The recorded engine description is: 400cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are collector appeal, character, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
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.
Kawasaki KH400
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KH400. 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 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.
Kawasaki KH400
- 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 RD400
Rivals to the Kawasaki KH400
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha RD400 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Kawasaki KH400 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.