Yamaha RD 350 LC [1983-1986]: The Two-Stroke Legend That Still Thrills

Introduction

The Yamaha RD 350 LC isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a time machine. This iconic two-stroke machine from the 1980s remains one of the most visceral and engaging rides ever created for the street. Part of Yamaha’s "Liquid Cooled" (LC) lineage, the RD 350 LC bridged the gap between raw, unfiltered performance and everyday usability, creating a cult following that persists decades later. With its screaming 347cc parallel-twin engine, lightweight chassis, and race-bred DNA, this bike redefined what a middleweight motorcycle could be. Let’s dive into what makes this machine so special.

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Design & Ergonomics

The RD 350 LC’s design screams ’80s sportbike aesthetics. Its full fairing—painted in bold color schemes like Yamaha’s signature red-and-white or striking blue—wraps around a compact steel frame, while twin round headlights give it a purposeful, almost predatory face. The 790 mm (31.1 inches) seat height feels accessible for riders of average height, though the narrow saddle and clip-on handlebars hint at its sporty intentions.

Build quality is typical of Japanese bikes of the era: functional but not luxurious. The plastic fairings feel flimsy by modern standards, and corrosion can plague untreated metal parts over time. Still, the LC’s minimalist design has aged gracefully, with clean lines that avoid the visual clutter of later sportbikes. The analog gauges—a speedometer and tachometer with a modest 9,000 rpm redline—are simple and legible, though the lack of a fuel gauge will have you relying on the trip meter (and the 18-liter / 4.75-gallon tank’s reserve tap).

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Engine & Performance

Ah, the heart of the beast. The RD 350 LC’s 347cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel-twin is a masterpiece of mechanical theater. With Yamaha’s patented YPVS (Yamaha Power Valve System)—a revolutionary feature for its time—the engine delivers a broad powerband for a two-stroke. But don’t mistake “broad” for “tame.” Below 6,000 rpm, the LC chugs along politely, albeit with the characteristic flatness of a two-stroke off the pipe. Then, as the revs climb, the power valve opens, and the world changes.

The engine screams to life, pulling hard from 7,000 rpm all the way to its 10,500 rpm power peak. Output varies by market (50 PS/37 kW in Europe, detuned to 27 PS/20 kW in restrictive markets like Germany), but in full-song spec, the LC will still embarrass modern 400cc four-strokes in a straight line. Acceleration is urgent, with a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of roughly 5.5 seconds—a figure that felt explosive in the ’80s and remains respectably quick today. Top speed hovers around 180 km/h (112 mph), though sustaining those speeds reveals the LC’s vintage roots: vibration through the bars and pegs becomes intense, and the engine’s shrill wail borders on painful without earplugs.

Fueling comes via twin 26mm Mikuni carburetors, which demand precise tuning and a willingness to mix two-stroke oil with every tank of gas. The 1.6-liter oil reservoir (for the autolube system) alleviates some hassle, but purists will still premix for peace of mind. Cold starts require patience—a ritual of choking the carbs and blipping the throttle until the pipes warm up. Once it’s on song, though, the LC rewards with a sensory overload: the smell of castor oil, the metallic howl of expansion chambers, and the addictive hit of two-stroke power.

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Handling & Ride Experience

Weighing just 170 kg (375 lbs) wet, the RD 350 LC feels almost unnervingly light by modern standards. The steel double-cradle frame and 35mm telescopic forks (holding 282-297ml of 10W oil, depending on year) offer a firm but compliant ride, while twin rear shocks—adjustable for preload—keep the back end planted. Tire pressures matter: Yamaha recommended 2.4 bar (35 psi) front and 2.9 bar (42 psi) rear, which feels stiff initially but pairs well with the period’s narrow 100/90-18 and 120/80-18 rubber.

In corners, the LC is a revelation. The narrow profile and low weight let you flick it side-to-side with minimal effort, while the chassis remains stable even at full lean. Ground clearance is generous, though the stock footpegs will scrape if you’re pushing hard. Braking, however, shows its age. The single 267mm front disc (with a twin-piston caliper) and rear drum stop the bike adequately, but modern sportbike riders will miss the bite of radial calipers and ABS.

Around town, the LC’s lightweight shines. Filtering through traffic is effortless, and the upright-ish riding position (compared to later race replicas) avoids wrist strain. Just be prepared for the engine’s temperamental nature—it’s happiest when ridden aggressively, and low-speed maneuvers can feel jerky until you master the clutch.

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Competition

The RD 350 LC entered a golden era of two-stroke street bikes. Key rivals included:

• Kawasaki KR250 S1/S2: A parallel-twin with rotary disc valves, lighter but less powerful (45 PS). The Kawasaki’s handling was sharper, but the Yamaha’s midrange and top-end pull gave it an edge.
• Suzuki RG250 Gamma: Liquid-cooled, with a square-four engine layout. More complex and peakier than the LC, but a favorite among tuners.
• Honda NS400R: A triple-cylinder powerhouse with 72 PS, but heavier and pricier. The Honda was faster but lacked the LC’s accessible charm.

The Yamaha’s blend of power, simplicity, and tuning potential made it the people’s champion. While the Suzuki and Honda appealed to hardcore enthusiasts, the LC struck a perfect balance for riders who wanted race-bred performance without constant maintenance.

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Maintenance

Owning an RD 350 LC today requires dedication. Two-stroke engines demand meticulous care, and the LC is no exception. Key considerations:

1. Oil Injection System: The autolube pump must be regularly inspected for leaks or clogs. Many owners bypass it and premix fuel (1:20 to 1:30 ratio) for reliability.
2. Power Valve Maintenance: The YPVS mechanism can carbon up. Clean it every 3,000 km (1,864 miles) using a Yamaha-approved carbon solvent.
3. Cooling System: The 1.5-1.8-liter coolant capacity is small, so check levels frequently. Upgrade to a modern ethylene glycol mix to prevent corrosion.
4. Spark Plugs: NGK BR8ES or BR9ES plugs (gap 0.8 mm) are critical. The LC’s oil-rich mixture fouls plugs easily—keep spares in your toolkit.
5. Chain & Sprockets: The 106-link chain and 17/39 sprocket combo wear quickly under hard riding. Fit a high-quality O-ring chain for longevity.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we recommend:
- NGK Iridium Spark Plugs (BR8EIX): Reduce fouling and improve throttle response.
- Premium 2-Stroke Oil: Synthetic oils like Motul 710 offer better lubrication and cleaner combustion.
- Upgraded Cooling Hoses: Silicone hoses resist aging and prevent leaks.

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Conclusion

The Yamaha RD 350 LC isn’t just a relic—it’s a living testament to the raw excitement of two-stroke motorcycling. Its flaws (temperamental cold starts, dated brakes, oil-mixing rituals) fade into irrelevance the moment you hit the powerband and feel that surge of acceleration. For riders who crave involvement, the LC delivers in ways modern bikes can’t replicate. It’s a machine that demands to be ridden with passion, maintained with care, and celebrated for its place in motorcycling history.

Whether you’re restoring one or keeping a well-loved example on the road, MOTOPARTS.store has the parts and expertise to help you master the LC’s quirks. From carb rebuild kits to period-correct decals, we’re here to keep the two-stroke dream alive.

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Specifications sheet

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