Yamaha Motor Company Limited is a world renowned Japanese maker of motorized vehicles such as motorcycles, boats, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and snowmobiles. This company was established in 1955, and now ranks among the biggest manufacturers of motorcycles in the world. In 1958, Yamaha became the first Japanese maker to venture in the arena of international motor racing. Their impressive performance in these races earned them a reputation as providers of high-level technology. Their initial popularity in the 1960s was mainly due to their light two-stroke bikes such as the 250cc YDS, and the 350cc YR1. By the end of that decade they ventured into the four stroke market with the introduction of the 650cc XS-1 road bike.

The RD350 was replaced with the RD400C in 1976, which was famed for being 'cleaner running' than the former. The RD400C underwent a series of changes for the next couple of years with the 'D', 'E' and 'F' models being introduced. The 1979 RD400F was the final model in the RD400 series. It was available in a white color. The RD400 Daytona Special was a two-stroke, six speed street motor cycle. This 399cc lightweight motorcycle had a compression ratio of 6.0:1. It featured a two cylinder, air-cooled engine that used the Autolube technology. This technology facilitated the automatic injection of the engine oil for mixing with the fuel. The Ram-air cylinder head resulted in better cooling, while the exhaust port butterfly valves enhanced the medium range power. There was a single disc brake in the rear and the front of the bike.

Easy handling was a significant advantage of the Yamaha RD400 sports bike. The Yamaha RD400 was also known for its excellent performance and easy maintenance. This powerful bike performed admirably in the racing circuits.