The Iconic Yamaha RD 350: A Motorcycle Legend

Yamaha RD 350 Engine Specifications:

  • Engine Type: Two-stroke, air-cooled, twin-cylinder engine
  • Displacement: 347cc
  • Bore x Stroke: 64mm x 54mm
  • Compression Ratio: 6.4:1
  • Max Power: 39 hp @ 7,500 rpm
  • Max Torque: 32 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual
  • Fuel System: 2x Mikuni VM28 carburettors
  • Ignition System: CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
  • Starting System: Kick-start
  • Top Speed: 160 km/h

The Yamaha RD 350 is a motorcycle that needs no introduction. It is an iconic machine that has left an indelible mark on the world of motorcycles, especially in India. The RD 350 was first introduced in Japan in 1972, and soon after, it made its way to India, where it became a sensation. The RD 350 was manufactured in India by Escorts Group under license from Yamaha from 1983 to 1990.

History

The Yamaha RD 350 was developed as a high-performance motorcycle for the Japanese market. It was based on the Yamaha R5, which was introduced in 1970. The RD 350 featured a twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine that produced 39 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful motorcycles of its time. The RD 350 was also one of the first motorcycles to feature a six-speed manual transmission.

The Yamaha RD 350 was introduced in India in 1983, and it quickly became a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts. The RD 350 was one of the few high-performance motorcycles available in India at that time, and it had a cult following. The RD 350 was a very popular motorcycle in India, and it was known for its speed and performance. However, due to its high power output and two-stroke engine, the RD 350 was also known for being difficult to handle and for its poor fuel economy.

What Made the Yamaha RD 350 Special?

The Yamaha RD 350 was a motorcycle that was ahead of its time. It was one of the few motorcycles of its time to feature a six-speed manual transmission. The RD 350 was also one of the first motorcycles to feature a disc brake on the front wheel. The RD 350 was also known for its speed and acceleration. It could reach a top speed of 160 km/h, and it could accelerate from 0 to 60 km/h in just 4.5 seconds.

The RD 350 was powered by a twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine that produced 39 horsepower. The engine was air-cooled and featured two Mikuni VM28 carburettors. The RD 350 was known for its smooth power delivery and for its distinctive exhaust note. The engine was mated to a six-speed manual transmission that was well-suited for the high-performance nature of the motorcycle.

The Yamaha RD 350 was also known for its handling. The motorcycle had a lightweight frame that was designed for high-speed cornering. The RD 350 was also equipped with a rear mono-shock suspension that provided excellent stability and handling.

Legacy

The Yamaha RD 350 has left a lasting legacy in the world of motorcycles. It was a motorcycle that was ahead of its time, and it paved the way for modern high-performance motorcycles. The RD 350 was also a motorcycle that was loved by enthusiasts, and it had a cult following.