1975 Yamaha RD350 Only 2-owners from new. Supremely powerful with 500cc performance, in a lightweight 250cc package, Yamaha’s RD350 two-stroke rocket ship twin was a guaranteed to be successful recipe. The RD featured reed-valves, allowing for a greater spread of the powerband and a front disc brake, turning every young enthusiast in to a GP racer on country lanes and backroads. Testing an RD350 in 1975, Bike magazine found it, ‘a very loveable bike; its finely judged blend of civilisation and brutality should appeal to anyone who wants an oil-tight, hassle-free mount which still has that old time quality known as “Balls”.’

The matching numbers example offered here was purchased from the original owner in 1991 and has remained in the collection of that second owner since. A superbly original example showing 25,000 miles on the odometer, it sports original paint, seat, fenders, exhaust, shocks etc. all in very good to excellent condition. Over the last two years the bike was completely disassembled for a very sympathetic restoration. The engine was rebuilt with new pistons, new crank and shaft seals and new points, while the gearbox received a new clutch/springs. The carbs were fully rebuilt. Attention to all cycle parts included almost all rubber parts being replaced, including new period correct tires, new bronze swingarm bushings and a new chain. The forks and brakes were all rebuilt with brand new parts. All lights and horn function as they should. Rather than trust the original oil pump, the mechanism was disconnected for 2-stroke mix to exact ratios to be added manually for greater performance – a modification that can be easily returned to standard as all parts remain in place. The bike is accompanied by the original tool kit & factory owner’s manual.

The 1975 Yamaha RD350 Only 2-owners from new starts easily, idles smoothly and runs as an RD should. As a local concours event preservation-class trophy winner, the bike is set up for the new owner to ride or show.