Honda NS400R
85/100 Overall
72 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda NS400R vs Yamaha RD500LC
Honda NS400R scores 85/100 overall against Yamaha RD500LC on 84/100. On the road: 72–68. As classics: 98–100. Overall result: Honda NS400R.
Yamaha RD500LC
84/100 Overall
68 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda NS400R | Yamaha RD500LC | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 9 | 8 | Honda NS400R |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 7 | Honda NS400R |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 6 | Honda NS400R |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Honda NS400R if…
you want a compact, beautifully balanced Honda race replica with unusual V3 character and strong 1980s collector appeal.
Choose the Yamaha RD500LC if…
you want genuine Grand Prix-inspired engineering, explosive two-stroke performance and one of Yamaha's most memorable road-going race replicas.
Background
History
Honda NS400R
The Honda NS400R was produced from 1985–1987 and used a 387cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V3. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and styling. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Yamaha RD500LC
The Yamaha RD500LC was produced from 1984–1986 and used a 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V4. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and historic importance. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda NS400R
- Its production span in this library runs from 1985 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 387cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V3.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and styling.
Yamaha RD500LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1984 to 1986.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V4.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda NS400R
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda NS400R. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Yamaha RD500LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD500LC. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Honda NS400R
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection system, crank seals, cooling system and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Yamaha RD500LC
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection system, crank seals, cooling system and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Honda NS400R
Rivals to the Yamaha RD500LC
Final result
The verdict
Honda NS400R wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RD500LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda NS400R takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.