1975 Yamaha RD200
1975 Yamaha RD200 Atlas Editions Classic Motorcycle card
Between two categories
Yamaha’s first purpose-designed 200 was the CS3 of 1971, and the CSS of October 1971 was the last, with its squared-off cylinders and heads combining black and aluminum finishes. The main changes lay in the frame, still an open cradle but with two supplementary tubes linking the rear loop to the steering head.
Improved Brakes
The braking was improved by adopting the front wheel of the DS6 250; the shocks had exposed springs, and the fork was a copy of the Italian Ceriani. And, with a newborn interest in ergonomics, the ignition key was moved from the tank top to between the instruments.
“Torque Induction”
The mechanical revolution came with the RD (”Race Developed”) models of 1973, available in 125, 200, 250 and 350cc displacements. All shared the same style and an innovation that would become widely developed: automatic intake valves (but still using ports controlled by the piston skirt) that inspired the mysterious “Torque Induction” motif on the side panels. This technology, which involved a total of seven intake and exhaust ports, was mostly a matter of publicity but was, however, always used on the 250 and 350 catalog racers. The RD200 developed more power below 4000 rpm, and apart from the cylinder heads, the engine was new (though the crankcase joint was still vertical). The model was made until 1980 with annual updates: new, angular lines in 1978 and alloy wheels in 1979. It was one of the last bikes in Japan to be fitted with a front disc brake. That was in 1975, although it was only available in 1976 in some export markets.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 195cc (52×46mm) air-cooled twin cylinder
Power Rating: 22 hp @ 7500 rpm
Valves: two-stroke: automatic intake valves in the cylinder
Fuel System: two 20mm Tekei carburetors
Transmission: 5-speed, chain final drive
Suspension: telescopic forks (front): swing arm with twin spring/dampers (rear)
Brakes: twin-leading-shoe drum (front): drum (rear)
Wheels: 18 inch (front & rear)
Weight: 256 Ib
Maximum Speed: 87 mph
Externally identical to the RD 125, the RD200 fell between two categories and was overshadowed by theRD250.
Card number D2 88-04
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