1973 Yamaha RD250
Born in 1973, the 1973 Yamaha RD250 is a 247cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 30hp from Yamaha.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- 2-stroke twin
- Displacement
- 247 cc
- Cylinders
- 2
- Power
- 30 hp @ 7500 rpm
- Torque
- 24.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 54.0 × 54.0 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- 2x Mikuni carburetors
Chassis & Transmission
- Frame
- Steel double cradle
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear Suspension
- Twin shock
- Front Brake
- Single disc
- Rear Brake
- Drum
- Front Tyre
- —
- Rear Tyre
- —
- Transmission
- 6-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 145 km/h (90 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 143 kg (315 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 155 kg (342 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 790 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1310 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 12.0 L
History & Story
Yamaha's 1973 Yamaha RD250 arrived in 1973 as a standard motorcycle designed for the discerning rider. Produced in Japan, it quickly earned recognition as a capable standard motorcycle from the 1970s.
The 1973 Yamaha RD250 is motivated by a 247cc 2-stroke twin twin-cylinder unit delivering 30hp at 7500 rpm. Breathing through 2x Mikuni carburetors and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 6-speed transmission with chain final drive.
The chassis employs a steel double cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 143 kg (315 lbs) dry, the 1973 Yamaha RD250 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1310 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1973 Yamaha RD250 achieves a claimed top speed of 145 km/h (90 mph). With a fuel capacity of 12.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
The 1973 Yamaha RD250 is motivated by a 247cc 2-stroke twin twin-cylinder unit delivering 30hp at 7500 rpm. Breathing through 2x Mikuni carburetors and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 6-speed transmission with chain final drive.
The chassis employs a steel double cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 143 kg (315 lbs) dry, the 1973 Yamaha RD250 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1310 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1973 Yamaha RD250 achieves a claimed top speed of 145 km/h (90 mph). With a fuel capacity of 12.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Known Issues
- Reed valve deterioration
- Exhaust power valve carbon buildup
- Crank seal wear
- Speedometer gear wear
Fun Facts
- As a two-stroke, the 1973 Yamaha RD250 produced a distinctive exhaust note and required premix or oil injection
- The 1973 Yamaha RD250 was produced in Yamaha's Japan facilities
- The 1973 Yamaha RD250 featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Moderate
- Collector Rating
- 5/10
Resources & Parts
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