Back to the Future! SR400 released Down Under

Rolling back the years SR400 released in Australia

Anyone who was old enough to ride a motorcycle in the 1970s will remember the fanfare that greeted the launch of the original Yamaha SR models. Inspired by the dual purpose XT500 which was launched a few years earlier, the single cylinder SR400 and SR500 were announced in 1978, and went on to become popular and enduring models.

With their relaxed torque output, slim and agile chassis design and classic styling, the Japanese-market SR400 and European-market SR500 became firm favourites with enthusiasts who were looking for a simple machine that captured the spirit of sports motorcycling

In many European countries including Germany, Austria and Belgium, groups of SR500 owners formed enthusiasts’ clubs, many of which still run to this day. To underline its appeal, the SR500 went on to win consecutive ‘Moto of the Year’ awards from Germany’s Motorrad magazine – one of the highest circulation motorcycle titles in Europe.

Enduring appeal since 1978 – Meanwhile, in Japan, legislation relating to the motorcycle licensing system in the mid 1970s created demand for 400cc models, and so the SR400 became a top seller in its home market. Virtually identical to the SR500 but running with a shorter stroke to achieve a capacity of 400cc, the SR400 has continued to attract massive interest in Japan over the last 35 years, with thousands of owners and enthusiasts turning up to SR rallies throughout the country.

More than half of SR400 owners in Japan are younger than the bike they ride, which demonstrates that this timeless motorcycle has an enduring appeal with a newer generation of riders.

The return of a legend – Yamaha’s classic big single has a genuine heritage and pureness of design that sets it apart from some other ‘retro’ models. There can be no doubt that the SR400 is the real thing, and with an authentic engine and chassis specification and original kick start mechanism, this charismatic twin-shock thumper is aimed at the many riders who are looking to rediscover the soul of motorcycling.

For many riders, the character, soul and image of a machine is far more important than its acceleration figures or potential lean angle. Fundamental qualities such as simplicity, ease of use and timeless design are more important to the SR400 owner. With its relaxed torque, light and agile chassis and sheer mechanical beauty, the SR400 is designed to appeal to riders looking for a motorcycle with a real heritage and character, and one which fully engages its owner.

In addition to its appealing character and easy performance, the SR400 also offers many possibilities for those riders who want to customise their machine, whether that involves adding a few bolt-on parts or going the whole way and creating a cafÃ© racer, street scrambler or bobber.

With its pulsing power delivery, throbbing exhaust note, strong physical presence and mechanical simplicity, the big single holds a special place in the hearts of motorcyclists all over the world.

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At the soul of the SR400 is an air-cooled 4-stroke single cylinder SOHC 2-valve engine which is technically almost identical to the original design, with a few exceptions.

The SR400 runs with a bore x stroke of 87mm x 62.7mm and a compression ratio of 8.5:1, and this well proven formula gives an excellent torque output that allows the SR400 rider to accelerate strongly from low revs without having to downshift. Also contributing to the SR’s healthy torque output is a large-capacity air cleaner, as well as a big 47mm intake valve and optimised flywheel mass, which work together to give the SR400 an effortless and relaxed running character.

The major difference between the original engine and the reborn powerplant is the use of a new fuel injection system, which allows the bike to conform with current emissions regulations, and also makes the SR400 easier to start than the original model.

This compact and simple new fuel injection unit delivers smooth engine running in a variety of riding conditions, and it occupies the same space as the original carburettor to maintain the original looks of the engine. Another advantage of this new fuel injection system is that it ensures excellent fuel economy, allowing the rider to achieve optimum range from the 12-litre fuel tank.

Our engineers wanted to ensure that the 2014 model is true to its original character, and so the only way to start the new SR400 is to kick it. This requires a special technique which can take some time to master.

But unlike the original model, the new SR400 now runs with a newly designed transistor ignition system that generates a better spark that helps when starting the bike up. But to evoke memories of yesteryear, the SR400 runs an indicator on the right side of the cylinder head that shows when the piston is in the best position for starting, and a decompressor lever on the left side of the handlebar assists in starting the engine smoothly.

As well as its relaxed and easy torque delivery, another everlasting attraction of this engine is its sheer mechanical beauty. With its large air-cooling fins, shiny crankcases and gracefully curving exhaust pipe, this big single is a classic design in every sense of the word. In an era when many engines are hidden behind fairings, the sight of the SR400’s big air-cooled engine is a joy to behold.

To prevent discolouration of the big-bore exhaust pipe its exterior surface has been treated with a special nano-film coating, while the polished engine cases feature a clear-coated buff finish to maintain the gleaming looks of this classic powerplant.

Hidden inside the SR400’s chrome plated muffler is a 3-way honeycomb-type catalyser coated with platinum and other precious metals, and this system – together with the new fuel injection system – allows the air-cooled single cylinder engine to exceed current EU emissions regulations.

Engine Technical Highlights

400cc air-cooled 4-stroke single cylinder engine
Simple and effective SOHC 2-valve design
Bore x stroke 87mm x 62.7mm
8.5:1 compression ratio
Relaxed torque for easy riding
Compact and simple fuel injection system
Excellent economy with proven reliability
Kick to start system evokes memories of yesteryear
Decompressor and piston position indicator for easy kick starts
Dry sump lubrication with oil carried in the frame
Large-capacity air cleaner
Easy-action clutch lever
Transistor ignition
Chrome-plated exhaust system with 3-way catalyser

CHASSIS

Tubular high tensile steel semi-double cradle frame – Staying absolutely true to the original layout, the 2014 SR400 is equipped with a compact and slimline semi-double cradle frame which perfectly complements the character of the single-cylinder engine. This proven design is manufactured from tubular high tensile steel that offers the optimum balance of strength, rigidity and weight, giving an agile feel and easy handling character.
Oil in frame – The SR400’s frame has been designed to carry the engine oil which runs through the main downtube and into the engine, and this oil-in-frame design offers a number of advantages over a wet sump system. Pumping losses within the engine are reduced, and because there is no need for an oil sump beneath the engine, the SR400’s ground clearance is higher. This design also allows for a slimmer body, which gives plenty of potential options for riders who want to build their own custom bike.
Plush front and rear suspension systems – The SR400 is equipped with traditional upright front forks that give 150mm of wheel travel for a smooth ride and easy steering. At the rear end this classic big single is fitted with a proven twin shock system that offers 100mm of suspension movement. Together with the well-padded dual seat, the smooth action suspension ensures a relaxing ride, making the SR400 one of the most comfortable ways to get about in the city or countryside.
Classic 12-litre teardrop fuel tank – Throughout its long history, the SR400’s fuel tank design has remained largely unchanged, with the only real ‘update’ over the years being different paint and graphics. The SR400 is equipped with the same familiar teardrop style fuel tank which is virtually identical to the original design, with the exception that the 2014 tank offers a capacity of 12 litres. The focal point of the graceful teardrop tank is Yamaha’s classic tuning fork logo.
Front disc brake and rear drum – The SR comes with a drilled front disc which is slowed by a modern 2-pot caliper. Braking at the rear end is provided by a sealed drum brake, and this proven front disc/rear drum combination delivers smooth braking performance with plenty of feel.
Balance-type centre stand – It is anticipated that the SR400 will attract many owners who will want to carry out a variety of maintenance jobs themselves, such as routine inspections, customisation projects and tyre changes. In order to facilitate this work in the garage at home, the SR400 is fitted with a balance-type centre stand which makes maintenance easier and more convenient.
Lightweight aluminium rims with 18-inch front and rear tyres – The latest reincarnation of the SR400 is equipped with 18-inch spoked front and rear wheels that perfectly match the character of this traditional big single. These stylish wheels are equipped with lightweight aluminium rims which ensure low unsprung weight for smooth suspension characteristics.

Chassis Technical Highlights

Light, slim and agile chassis
Classic style with timeless good looks
Potential to customise into cafe racer, bobber or street scrambler
Tubular high tensile steel semi-double cradle frame
Space-saving oil-in-frame design
Telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks
12-litre fuel tank with classic Yamaha tuning fork logo
Spoked wheels with lightweight aluminium rims
18-inch front and rear tyres
Front disc brake and rear drum brake
Balance-type centre stand
Chrome plated mudguards, headlight rim and grab bar

Deus event introduces new SR – Festival of Thump highlights the legendary single

The 5 April event will witness the Sydney introduction of Yamaha’s all new SR400 – a model that is not really new at all having been available in Japan since 1978.

“SR400/500 is an icon of motorcycling simplicity and the custom bike community’s weapon of choice. 2014 will see the Australian release of the first EFI version of the classic Yammy thumper, to help celebrate the landmark event we invite you to bring your SR/XT/TT along to Deus Camperdown for a day of single pot goodness,” say our friends at Deus. The SR400 is a blank canvas to custom builders, so come down and see what is possible, meet the new breed of SR customer and check out the 2014 fuel injected model. Deus Ex Machina is at 98-104 Parramatta Rd, Camperdown.

SR400 specifications