Yamaha SR 400 2016 — Specifications

What if tomorrow, you could find a Renault 4L, a Peugeot 205, a VCR… brand new and straight from the factory!? Yamaha is offering something along those lines with the return of a renowned model from the late 1970s. The SR 400 hasn't aged a bit, and since the revival trend remains popular, there’s no reason not to enjoy it.

However, this isn't a neo-retro interpretation like the BMW R 1200 Nine T or a vintage model such as the Guzzi V7 or Triumph Thruxton. No, the 2015 SR 400 is virtually the same as its 1978 ancestor. And that’s because it’s not a true novelty but a re-introduction to the French market. The SR 400 has never stopped being sold in Japan, where it is a star, especially since it lends itself readily to all types of modifications. Only a few essential evolutions have been incorporated into its design over the decades. Fuel injection replaced the carburetors, and a catalytic converter was installed in the muffler. But the essence remains: this isn't a modern motorcycle with a retro style… it’s a retro motorcycle sold today as it was 10, 20, 35 years ago!

The single-cylinder engine, derived from the 500 XT engine, is therefore virtually the same as at its debut. With dimensions of 87 x 67.2 mm, it prioritizes torque and responsiveness at low RPM. The technical specifications seem to come from a yellowed catalog that you would have unearthed from the treasure chest of a great uncle. 2 valves, 1 OHC, a compression ratio of 8.5:1; technology in the Giscard d'Estaing style. An effort was nevertheless made to improve its torque with a larger airbox and a larger 47 mm intake valve. The finishing touch is the starting process, which is the same as before: with a kick starter. Nostalgics will love it. Young people will have to learn to kick-start, find the compression point (there's a witness mark on the cylinder head to facilitate the job), use the decompression lever, or taste the joy of getting a kick in the shin.

If, if, it’s a chassis that is as original as can be (don't confuse with original) that holds the SR 400. A semi-double cradle steel frame, with the particularity that engine oil passes through the main vertical tube. The suspension components consist of a classic fork and 2 lateral shock absorbers. The SR 400 has also retained its 18-inch spoked rims, a front disc brake, and a rear drum brake.

Back then, the SR 400 was considered a utility motorcycle. With the vintage trend, its chrome and retro charm, the SR 400 becomes a Sport Heritage and makes a noticeable return… while it’s still the same type of machine, with a ridiculous power of 23 horsepower, forgotten technology, and a design that hasn't changed a hair since the disappearance of Claude François. And that’s why it will be popular, and all those who strive to vocalize that "it was better before" will have a perfect example at their disposal. In fact, with the SR 400, you’re not really buying a motorcycle, you’re buying its soul, and the pleasure of simple things. The price is laughable, and seems inadequate for the SR to find its place in the sun.

Recall Campaign: In late October 2018, Yamaha initiated a recall campaign for its SR 400 due to an issue with the oil return hose. Due to insufficient torque on the securing nut of this hose, there was a possibility of engine oil leakage at the tightening nut.

Machines concerned:

• SR400 models 2014 - 2016 (2RD1/2RDB) whose serial numbers are between RH051 0000301 and RH051 0002787.

That is, a total of 464 machines concerned for the French market.

Customers owning these machines have been notified by registered mail to have this intervention carried out free of charge.

M.B - Constructeur photos