1972 Yamaha RT3 360, 351cc. Registration number NOVA 18E1568...

Hammer

£2,800

1972 Yamaha RT3 360, 351cc. Registration number NOVA 18E156878. Frame number RT1-142771. Engine number RT1-142771.
Yamaha introduced the DT/RT line of Dual Sport motorcycles in 1968. They featured rock solid power and reliability with good ground clearance and suspension. The 1973 RT3s went to a 21” front wheel in an effort to improve the handling. It was an improvement, and a change that would last for years in the Dual Sport ranks. It used a 351 cc air cooled two stroke single cylinder motor that produced 28 HP for a top speed of 80 MPH. A 5 speed transmission with an overdriven top gear allowed the top speed mark and made it road capable. At less than 230 LBS dry weight the ride was good, the handling and braking fair for the day. Yamaha’s Auto Lube system of oil injection worked very well and what a big selling point for the company.
This machine was imported in July 2017 and sold to our vendor as a restoration project. When purchased it had a US Government VIN label (lost in the restoration with Florida 1974). He has undertaken the following works, stripped and rebuilt the engine, rebored with 2nd oversize NOS piston and rings, powder coated the frame and other tinware except for keeping the tank with it original patina and dealers label on the fuel cap (Yamaha South Florida), new chain, carburettor rebuilt, new seat, swinging arm bearings and other minor parts, including two new keys. It has been re-commissioned by A.E. Wildman motor cycles to get it running.
Sold with the NOVA, copy of the dating certificate from VJMC and a £254 recommissioning invoice.