1974 Yamaha RD350

Description

Additional photos of this Yamaha RD350 are available here for your perusal.

Upon its release in 1973, the Yamaha RD350 was an instant classic. An evolution of the R5, it featured the reliable two-stroke reed-valve 350cc parallel twin, which was capable of consistently dusting bikes with 750cc engines. This bike, simply put, was an overachiever. In fact, A period Yamaha ad showed a sad looking rider at a bar with the phrase “Don’t feel bad. You’re not the first 750 rider to get blown off by a Yamaha 350.”

While most big bikes could eventually beat the Yamaha RD350 in a straight line, this bike had quite an advantage when it came to the corners. At the time, this was easily one of the best handling bikes you could buy – the bonus being that it was dirt cheap. In 1974, a RD350 sold for $908. A Kawasaki Z1 sold for $1,995. Wanted a Ducati 750SS? You’d have to spend over $3,000. The RD350 was quick, agile, and accessible to the average rider. Motorcycle Classics calls this the “Best Bang for the Buck.”

Weighing about 350 pounds wet, this bike was capable of 14 second quarter miles. So you wouldn’t win many drag races, but this was a perennial champion when it came to amateur track racing. The RD350 also featured a trick Autolube system that ensured you’d keep the oil mixed in properly.

This example is VIN: 351216522, Engine #: 351-216522. The seller acquired it from the original owner’s family last year. It was originally purchased in Michigan and spent most of its life there.

During his ownership, the seller has covered 50 miles. The odometer shows 4,691 miles.

Maintenance:
“The original owner’s son had the motor gone through in May of 2020 at AdvMotoTech in Glendale, California. I have receipts for $2,894.” He adds that it “needs a quick tune-up from sitting.”

Modifications:
Per the seller, this bike is stock.

Cosmetic Blemishes:
The seller notes that this has the original paint.

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Metzeler tires which have aged out.

The sale includes one key.

Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Yamaha is offered on a clean California title with registration that’s current through February 2023.

The tags show 2021, however the seller has the current tags in his possession and the California DMV website shows this RD350 is registered through 2023:

Have any RD350 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!