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, even though you wouldn’t win many drag races, it proved 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: 351313611. The seller acquired it eight years ago from a local private seller.
During his ownership, the seller has covered less than 100 miles. The odometer shows 12,167 miles.
Maintenance:
“Cleaned carbs, new throttle cable, new plugs, bleed and flushed front brakes.” The seller states that there are no known mechanical issues.
Modifications:
Per the seller, this bike is stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Cheng Shin tires from before 2000 with date codes of 525 and 526.
The sale includes 1 ignition key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Small dent in tank, paint blemish on tank, tape covering rip on seat, pitting on forks, stain on chain guard, small chip in orange paint on headlight and upper fork tube, scratch in graphic on left side fuel tank.”
Currently located in Bloomington, Indiana, this Yamaha is offered on a clean Kentucky title. Have any RD350 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
