1975 Yamaha RD350
Yamaha released the 1975 Yamaha RD350 in 1975 with a 347cc 2-stroke twin powerplant making 39hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- 2-stroke twin
- Displacement
- 347 cc
- Cylinders
- 2
- Power
- 39 hp @ 7500 rpm
- Torque
- 33.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 64.0 × 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
- 165 km/h (103 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 150 kg (331 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 163 kg (359 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 790 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1345 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 13.0 L
History & Story
In 1975, Yamaha launched the 1975 Yamaha RD350 — a standard motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from Japan, it combined Japan engineering with standard motorcycle appeal.
Powering the 1975 Yamaha RD350 is a 347cc 2-stroke twin producing 39hp. This twin-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 2x Mikuni carburetors. A 6-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
Built around a steel double cradle frame, the 1975 Yamaha RD350 suspends its 150 kg (331 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on single disc at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1345 mm wheelbase providing stability.
Performance-wise, the 1975 Yamaha RD350 achieves a claimed top speed of 165 km/h (103 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Today, the 1975 Yamaha RD350 is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as moderate, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Yamaha motorcycling from 1970s.
Powering the 1975 Yamaha RD350 is a 347cc 2-stroke twin producing 39hp. This twin-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 2x Mikuni carburetors. A 6-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
Built around a steel double cradle frame, the 1975 Yamaha RD350 suspends its 150 kg (331 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on single disc at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1345 mm wheelbase providing stability.
Performance-wise, the 1975 Yamaha RD350 achieves a claimed top speed of 165 km/h (103 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Today, the 1975 Yamaha RD350 is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as moderate, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Yamaha motorcycling from 1970s.
Known Issues
- Reed valve deterioration
- Exhaust power valve carbon buildup
- Crank seal wear
- Speedometer gear wear
Fun Facts
- The 1975 Yamaha RD350 is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history
- As a two-stroke, the 1975 Yamaha RD350 produced a distinctive exhaust note and required premix or oil injection
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Moderate
- Collector Rating
- 7/10
Resources & Parts
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