Registration No: Unregistered
Frame No: Not visible
MOT: N/A

• Interesting 'barn find' classic racer project
• Based on a mid-1970s Yamaha RD250
• 36mm carbs and TD/TZ style bodywork

The Yamaha Motor Co. was formed in 1955 as the powered vehicle division of the massive Yamaha Corporation, then more famous for making musical instruments. The first bike, produced in 1954, was the YA-1, which, like the BSA Bantam, was heavily influenced by Germany’s DKW RT125, but in typical Japanese fashion it was soon improved upon with the launch of the YA-2 in 1957. This was an immediate success in sporting events in Japan, initiating a long succession of achievements that are still being added to in Moto GP. The introduction of Yamaha’s ‘over the counter’ race bikes in the late 1960s revolutionised racing, allowing anyone to buy a race-ready bike capable of winning TTs and GPs. The 250 and 350 models are among the most successful racing bikes ever produced. The race bikes were always heavily based on contemporary road models so many people made their own replicas, very often incorporating a few tuning parts and specifications from the official racers.

This 'barn find' classic race bike, being offered without reserve, is based on a mid-1970s air-cooled twin, possibly an RD250 but unfortunately from a deceased estate so not much is known of its history. The bike looks to have a standard frame that has been de-lugged and fitted with an HPI electronic ignition kit. Handwritten notes found with the bike say it has chrome-bore cylinders and 36mm carbs, although we have not been able to verify this. The sponsor's logos and scrutineering stickers suggest the bike has been raced and paraded in Britain and Europe. It is fitted with a disc front end, expansion chambers and a full set of TD/TZ style bodywork. It makes an interesting project to either recommission as a race or parade bike or form the basis of a TD2 road bike replica.

For more information, please contact:
Ian Cunningham
ian.cunningham@handh.co.uk
07415871189