1979 Yamaha RD400F Daytona Special
The 1979 Yamaha RD400F Daytona Special is an aircooled parallel-twin two-stroke streetbike that falls under the "unfaired sportbike" category. The "F" model is fairly unique in that it was only produced for one or two years (depending on what part of the world you live in), and bridged the gap between the "conventional" 1978 RD400, and the liquid cooled RD350LC of 1980. The RD350LC was the precursor to the famed RZ350, the last two-stroke streetbike sold in the US and Canada.
The "F" was differentiated from the previous RD400 models with a more modern looking tank, side covers and tailsection which looks a little bit more like the RD350LC parts than the previous RD400 pieces.
The "F" model in Canada and Europe came equipped with CDI ignition, instead of the previous model's points, as well as a one piece "ram-air" cylinder head, which was claimed to have better cooling abilities, and held the cylinders more solidly than the previous model's two piece heads.
The US "F" models retained the points ignition, and added an exhaust dashpot which was linked to the throttle. See the Cycle World article elswhere on this site for a more detailed explanation of the system, as well as a full test of the US "F" model. The US only got the "F" model for one year, 1979.
Chassis-wise, the "F" model features 35mm forks, swinging brake calipers, and footpegs which extend from above the exhaust pipes (earlier RD400's footpegs extended from below the exhaust pipes).
This page documents the buildup of my Canadian model 1979 Yamaha RD400F Daytona Special, shown above right in the original condition it was in when I purchased it (non-stock wheel and frame colours). There are also motorcycle related links, images, and a message board. Please feel free to contact me via the forums if you have any questions, comments or info.
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