Motorcycle Repair: 976-1978 Yamaha RD 400, age of uncertainty, sv 650

Question
To Whom It May Concern,

I'd love to buy a 1976-1978 Yamaha RD 400, but I'm afraid it'll be just too old and will just keep breaking. It is possible for a RD 400 to be reliable? I guess I could buy the shop manual and really learn the bike. Maybe I should just buy a used SV 650 or Gladius? Thanks,

Sincerely,

William

Answer
Hi William,  In this age of uncertainty, it's not a bad idea to go with something as relatively simple as an old Yamaha two-stroke.  Most of the important stuff can be checked out quickly, and if your not sure take someone with experience with that bike.

Good luck,  Jan