Eric and Dueller - I also felt the need for a cafe bike. I let my motorcycle license expire years ago. I really haven’t ridden much after college, and I didn’t see a need for my MC endorsement when I didn’t even have a bike. During college I had a Yamaha 360 enduro (RT2?) that I mostly rode on the street.
http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/features/122_0606_adventure_touring/index.html
I always wanted the two cylinder, two cycle street version of my enduro – the RD350. Over the years, I’ve read how older street bikes are becoming more collectible, and the RD350’s and RD400’s were always mentioned. I just happen to come across this RD400 Daytona Special on Craigslist for very little money.
The motor didn’t run, the tank was badly dented, and there was surface rust just beginning on the frame. However, it was largely intact, and had less than 9000 original miles. Perfect for a late winter/early spring rebuild, and it doesn’t take up much room in the garage. I’ve only had it for a couple of weeks, and you can see that I have made some progress already. I just finished installing new fork seals, tapered roller bearings in the steering, and bronze swing arm bushings. If the weather improves, I can paint the frame this week, and start re-assembling.
