1984–85 Yamaha RZ350 |
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Performance |      |
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It could blow away bikes three times its capacity off the line, in the quarter mile, and around a race track. Pull the catalytic pipes off, and it just got meaner. And unlike many two-strokes, it held together and had a reasonable power curve. |
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Handling |      |
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Light weight, reasonable quality suspension components, a frame that was remarkably stiff for being narrow steel tubing, and great brakes. |
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Looks |      |
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The zeitgeist of the yellow-and-black Kenny Roberts Special perfectly captures the era it represents. |
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Reliability |      |
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An admirable score for a high-strung boy racer that was cheap enough to find its way into the hands of inexperienced racers and wrenchers. |
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Practicality |      |
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It actually makes a better daily driver than many larger, more sedate bikes, and it definitely has better ergos than today's replica racers. |
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Desirability |      |
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It's a great performing bike, historically significant, rare and quite iconic. |