1979 Yamaha RD400F Daytona Special. Widely revered as the absolute "holy grail" of production air-cooled street legal two-strokes, 1979 marked the final chapter of this giant-killing era. This machine has been a prized part of a private collection for the last 32 years and has been preserved in a climate-controlled facility.

With only 9,652 original miles, this Daytona Special is an incredible survivor. It's currently running on a 32:1 pre-mix fuel ratio, which has kept the interior of the fuel tank very clean, and rust-free. The bike delivers the legendary two-stroke power band. NOTE: The complete Oil Pump assembly is included with the sale, please see photos numerous parts are new oem.

Vehicle Specifications

2026 Refresh Work Includes

The following was completed in 2026:

• Carburetors: Both Mikuni carburetors were ultrasonically cleaned and fully rebuilt. New Uni-foam air filter.
• Front Brakes: Front caliper rebuilt with brand new seals, new piston, and new brake pads.
• Rear Brakes: Rear caliper rebuilt with new seals, new piston; new pads and brake reservoir supply hose replaced.
• Tires: Brand new, Bridgestone Battlax Sport Touring BT46 tires installed front and rear (less than 25 miles on them).
• Fluids: Fresh gearbox oil service completed.

Period Custom Touches & Modifications

The bike features tasteful upgrades common to the high-performance cafe styles of the era:

• Exhaust: Fitted with high-performance aftermarket expansion chambers with removable baffles. They sound incredible see video.
• Bodywork: Upgraded aftermarket rear fender with an exceptionally clean, high-quality fit and visual outcome.
• Lower fork legs: The prior owner had painted the lower fork legs black. Heat gun or chemical strip should easily restore the original finish
• Controls: Period-correct aftermarket handlebars and mirrors to complete the low-profile cafe stance.

Inclusions, Spares & Documentation

This auction includes a valuable assortment of original parts, documentation, and parts:

• Matching Numbers Bike: This is a matching numbers bike with a clear in hand IL title VIN# 2V0002287.
• Original Oil Injection Pump: The factory stock 2-stroke oil pump assembly is included, including new injector nozzles, gaskets, shims, along with all necessary parts to convert back if desired (many components recently purchased brand new OEM , as shown in photos)the oil tank cap may need to be replaced as its not locking but stays in place, tab on cap my be missing, the tank is in great condition as are all the other components.
• Seat Refresh Kit: The seat currently has a small, minor tear. Included in the sale is a brand new replacement seat cover and matching passenger strap sourced directly from HVC Cycle.
• Literature & Tuning: Original Factory Service Manual, various spare components, and an assortment of Mikuni main and pilot jets for fine-tuning.

Honest Disclosures for Collectors

• Cosmetics & Patina: While the tank interior is perfectly rust-free, the exterior paint shows honest patina appropriate for an unrestored 47-year-old vintage motorcycle. There are a couple of small chips in the paint, small ding in tank and fender,  and a 3-inch light scuff on the rear tail cowl section (all clearly highlighted in the close-up photos).
• Fork Service: Front shocks and steering bearings have not been serviced in decades and should be addressed, there are no leaks visible and the bike currently handles well with no issues.
• Current state of tune: Watch and listen to the attached video. As I am presently going through my collection of vintage bikes to sell (over 12 bikes) I have limited time to dial in all the bikes. (see my other bikes listed!) With current setup (27.5 pilot jet and 155 main) bike pulls well off low rpm range and high rpm but needs to be dialed in better for mid range tranistion, perhaps needle clip reposition or larger main jets.  Also carbs were only synced visually and should be set up with carb vacuum sync gauge. Please watch the video as the bike screams but needs to be dialed in with a professional final touch to be at its fullest potential. I have various new larger jets starting at 140-170 included. Spark plug color looks pretty good at the current jet settings.

Payment Terms (Strictly Enforced)

Please read carefully before bidding. There are no exceptions to these security measures:

• In-Person Cash Transactions: If paying in cash, the transaction MUST take place entirely inside my local bank lobby. The funds will be verified and deposited directly with the bank teller before the motorcycle, keys, or clear title are handed over.
• Wire Transfer Transactions: If paying via wire transfer, the bike and title will be released immediately once my financial institution confirms the funds have permanently cleared.

Terms of Sale & Shipping

• Location: Mundelein, IL
Shipping/Pickup: The buyer is entirely responsible for vehicle pickup or shipping arrangements. I am happy to coordinate with your chosen transport carrier and assist with loading. Please review the photos and video carefully to appreciate this iconic machine. Sold as is where is no warranty expressed or implied.