Yamaha YZ400 looking a lot nicer now.

Spent a bit more time on the 1978 YZ400 Yamaha Moto Machine over the weekend, and I got to admit I am happy with the way she is looking right now, I like the yellow rather than the European White plastics option, I think it’s a warmer color to be honest, albeit all too similar to the Beamish Suzuki Yellow that was available back then.

Also, 47 years has gone by since Yamaha bought out this amazing trench digging motorcycle and I read many old articles on how this was quite a machine to ride when it came out with the Aluminum swing arm, as opposed to the steel one the year before.  A real piece of Nostalgia when it comes to these machines and even though it is almost 5 decades old, the power is still enough to dig trenches and bury you in them, todays bikes are more refined and of course the suspension is a luxury compared to the 70’s machines but, these would make you really appreciate your newer bike for sure.

This is not a restoration by any means but as she is an great condition frame wise I just cleaned her up and replaced the plastics etc. with new urethane versions as she looks a million dollars right now, I am almost ready to get this old girl ready for firing up, tomorrow i shall be draining the oil and replacing with new stuff as that oil is a few decades old too.

I will always love the bikes that were all the rage when I was in my teenage years and they have stayed in my brain forever, with today’s electric, clean and lightweight versions out there, well, these really do show the amount of strength and determination you would have needed to get these going.

Once I have her running again, this puppy will be up for sale, and hopefully there are still many like me that want to re-live the days of this era and remember the sound and the smell of these two stroke Motocross motorbikes.

Here are a few facts that you may of forgotten on this old girl:

• • Engine: 397cc single-cylinder, two-stroke engine.
  • Frame: Chromoly steel frame for improved strength and weight reduction.
  • Suspension: Dual shock setup with a new aluminum swingarm for better performance and handling.
  • Performance: The bike is praised for its incredible power, making it one of the best open-class MX bikes of its time.
  • Approximately 240 pounds, contributing to its handling capabilities.
  • The 1978 Yamaha YZ400E is a well-regarded motorcycle known for its performance. It features a 397cc engine that delivers impressive power, although specific horsepower ratings are not universally agreed upon.
    • • Some sources suggest that the YZ400E may output around 45 hp at 9100 rpm, while others estimate it to be over 50 hp with modifications.

    I am so happy that I have got to own one of these iconic machines and hope that you are enjoying it too?

    

Of course, I have been known for my CB750 Motorcycles and my Triumph Cafe Racer machines but, I am a “Motorcyclist” and have many interests in all styles of bikes, be it Custom, Dirt track, Motocross, Supercross, Flat track, speedway, Drag racing, Classic Road racing, Trials etc, I love them all.

I see a few have sold at the auctions and ALL of them are sold with just a bill of sale, but not me, I have the genuine original pink slip/Title for this and the factory handbook, so a super rare opportunity to have a titled Motocross bike.

Thanks for following me on what I love to do here at home, motorcycles are my life and enjoy turning wrenches and designing parts.

here is all the paper work that goes with this Classic Steed, you never get Titles with them usually as they are lost forever, still has original envelope from DMV.

A rare find indeed and just makes this 1978 YZ400 more history and glad that i can offer it to anyone that is into these great 1970’s machines.