Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Yamaha RD80LC
74/100 Overall
62 On the road85 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha RD80LC vs Kawasaki KH100
Yamaha RD80LC scores 74/100 overall against Kawasaki KH100 on 68/100. On the road: 62–62. As classics: 85–73. Overall result: Yamaha RD80LC.
Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Kawasaki KH100
68/100 Overall
62 On the road73 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD80LC | Kawasaki KH100 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 4 | 4 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha RD80LC |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 5 | Yamaha RD80LC |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 8 | Kawasaki KH100 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 8 | Kawasaki KH100 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD80LC |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha RD80LC |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha RD80LC |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Yamaha RD80LC |
Choose the Yamaha RD80LC if…
you want a small-capacity 1980s two-stroke with LC styling, learner-bike nostalgia and lively performance.
Choose the Kawasaki KH100 if…
you want straightforward Kawasaki two-stroke transport with easy maintenance and authentic learner-bike charm.
Background
History
Yamaha RD80LC
The Yamaha RD80LC was produced from 1982–1986 and used a 79cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, character, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Kawasaki KH100
The Kawasaki KH100 was produced from 1976–1988 and used a 99cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha RD80LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1982 to 1986.
- The recorded engine description is: 79cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, character, historic importance.
Kawasaki KH100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1988.
- The recorded engine description is: 99cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, character.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha RD80LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD80LC. 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 KH100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KH100. Its library score for reliability is 8/10. 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 RD80LC
- 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 KH100
- 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 RD80LC
Rivals to the Kawasaki KH100
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Yamaha RD80LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD80LC takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.