Yamaha introduced the SR400 and SR500 in 1978 after buyers asked for a road-going motorcycle based on the XT500’s engine. The design was adapted for street use. A slim chassis and the distinct pulses of a large single-cylinder engine became central to the SR’s appeal.
The SR400’s story in Japan continued for 43 years, with around 120,000 machines produced for that market. Keeping it in production required gradual changes, including responses to tighter emissions requirements. Its familiar silhouette therefore did not mean complete mechanical standstill: successive updates helped preserve the motorcycle’s original character.
The 2021 Final Edition Limited closed that chapter with black paint and a fuel tank featuring a sunburst finish applied by skilled craftspeople. The special version also carried an emblem with a serial number. Beneath the tank remained an air-cooled 399 cc single-cylinder engine, started with a kick lever — a familiar ritual right up to the farewell.