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 Suzuki GT380
Yamaha RD400 scores 81/100 overall against Suzuki GT380 on 79/100. On the road: 73–68. As classics: 88–90. Overall result: Yamaha RD400.
Suzuki GT380
79/100 Overall
68 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD400 | Suzuki GT380 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha RD400 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD400 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 6 | Yamaha RD400 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki GT380 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 9 | Suzuki GT380 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| 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 Suzuki GT380 if…
you want smooth three-cylinder two-stroke character, comfortable road manners and unmistakable 1970s Suzuki styling.
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.
Suzuki GT380
The Suzuki GT380 was produced from 1972–1978 and used a 371cc air-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, 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?
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.
Suzuki GT380
- Its production span in this library runs from 1972 to 1978.
- The recorded engine description is: 371cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, collector appeal.
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.
Suzuki GT380
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GT380. 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
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.
Suzuki GT380
- 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 Suzuki GT380
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha RD400 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Suzuki GT380 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD400 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.