Historical Significance:
The Yamaha RD350 was a highly influential performance motorcycle in its era, known for its potent 2-stroke engine and agile handling. It was a favorite among sportbike enthusiasts and racers.
Competitors Era:
Competed against other performance-oriented 350cc class motorcycles from manufacturers like Suzuki (RG350), Kawasaki (KR250), and Honda (CB350F, later CB-1).
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, enabling owners and independent mechanics to perform all necessary servicing, diagnosis, and repairs accurately, saving significant costs compared to dealership services.
Vehicle Appeal:
Appeals to owners who value the performance and character of classic 2-stroke Japanese sportbikes and wish to maintain them in optimal condition.
Manual Coverage Areas:
General Information, Routine Maintenance, Specifications, Periodic Checks and Adjustments, Lubrication, Cooling System, Transmission, Drive Chain, Sprockets, Engine Specifications, Engine Removal and Installation, Fuel System, Steering System, Shocks, Body Work, Intake & Exhaust, Electrical System, Advanced Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagram
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed page count not specified, but extensive coverage implies hundreds of pages.
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Digital Format:
PDF Download
Powertrain Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Fuel System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Intake & Exhaust
Chassis Systems:
Steering System, Suspension (Shocks), Drive Chain and Sprockets, Wheels and Tires
Electrical Systems:
Ignition System, Lighting, Charging System, Wiring Diagrams
Bodywork And Miscellaneous:
Body Work, Frame, General Information
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine Maintenance, Periodic Checks and Adjustments, Lubrication, Fluid Changes (coolant, oil), Filter Replacement (air, oil if applicable)
Repair Procedures:
Engine Rebuild/Overhaul, Transmission Service, Fuel System Repair (carburetor tuning), Electrical System Troubleshooting and Repair, Suspension and Steering Repair, Brake System Maintenance and Repair
Diagnostic Procedures:
Advanced Troubleshooting, Identifying and resolving common issues
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and electrical diagnostics and repair. Includes step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and illustrations suitable for professional mechanics and skilled DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, 2-stroke, parallel-twin
Displacement:
347cc (approximate)
Bore X Stroke:
Refer to manual for precise specifications (e.g., ~49mm x 48mm for earlier models, check specifics for 84-86)
Horsepower:
Estimated 40-50 hp (market dependent, check manual for exact figures)
Torque:
Refer to manual for specific torque figures.
Carburetion:
Dual carburetors (likely Mikuni VM series, e.g., 26mm or 28mm)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline with 2-stroke oil pre-mix or injection system (check market specifics)
Lubrication System:
Autolube (automatic oil injection) or pre-mix (market dependent)
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual for specific plug type and gap (e.g., NGK BR9ES or similar)
Overall Length:
Refer to manual for exact dimensions.
Overall Width:
Refer to manual for exact dimensions.
Seat Height:
Refer to manual for exact dimensions.
Dry Weight:
Approx. 150-160 kg (check manual for precise figures).
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 14-17 liters (check manual for precise figures).
Safety Standards:
Standard safety features for its era; no modern electronic safety systems. Manual covers brake system maintenance and adjustments.
Braking System:
Front disc brake, Rear drum brake (or dual front discs on some variants).
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, turn signals, brake light.
Infotainment System:
N/A (Classic motorcycle, no electronic infotainment features).
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (Classic motorcycle, no electronic driver assistance features).
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Classic motorcycle, no electronic connectivity features).
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) or similar electronic ignition. Manual provides troubleshooting for ignition timing, coil testing, and sensor checks.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically every few thousand miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically every 3,000-6,000 miles.
Chain And Sprockets Maintenance:
Regular cleaning, lubrication, and adjustment as per manual recommendations.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with distilled water (refer to manual for specific mixture ratio and type).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (verify with manual).
Common Wear Items:
Piston rings, cylinder wear, clutch plates, reed valves, electrical connections, carburetor jets/seals.
Performance Degradation:
Loss of power, poor fuel economy, smoking, or hard starting can indicate issues with the top end, ignition, or fuel system.
Carburetor Tuning:
Critical for optimal 2-stroke performance; manual provides detailed procedures for jetting, idle speed, and mixture adjustment.
Yamaha Motorsport Legacy:
Yamaha has a rich history in motorcycle racing, particularly in 2-stroke technology, which heavily influenced the development of the RD series.
Rd Series Development:
The RD350 evolved from earlier RD250 and RD400 models, incorporating advancements in chassis design, suspension, and engine tuning for improved performance and handling. The 1984-1986 models represent a significant update, often referred to as the RD350LC II or similar.
Production Period:
The RD350LC was produced from the early 1980s through the mid-1980s. Specific production figures for these years are not readily available without specialized historical data.
Collectible Status:
Highly collectible among enthusiasts of classic Japanese performance motorcycles.
