Yamaha RD 350 LC (1986-1989): The Last Dance of the Two-Stroke Legend

Introduction

The Yamaha RD 350 LC needs no introduction for fans of two-stroke madness. Produced from 1986 to 1989, this final iteration of the iconic LC series represents both the culmination and swan song of street-legal two-stroke technology in mainstream motorcycling. While modern bikes chase electronic perfection, the RD 350 LC remains a raw, unapologetic celebration of mechanical simplicity and explosive power delivery. After spending a week with a meticulously maintained 1988 model, I can confirm this machine still delivers one of the most visceral riding experiences ever created.

Design & Ergonomics

The RD 350 LC's styling is pure 1980s sportbike theater. The angular fuel tank with its knee indents flows into a stepped seat (790mm height) that practically dares you to adopt a committed riding position. The 35mm telescopic forks and box-section swingarm look almost delicate by modern standards, but there's beauty in the simplicity.

At 170kg (375 lbs) wet, the LC feels shockingly light when pushing it off the stand. The narrow waist between tank and seat makes it feel even slimmer between the knees. Instruments are basic - analog tachometer dominates the cluster, with secondary warnings for neutral and oil level. The real magic happens when you thumb the kickstarter (yes, no electric leg here) and the twin-pipe orchestra comes to life.

Engine & Performance

Let's address the elephant in the room first - that glorious 347cc liquid-cooled twin. With Yamaha's YPVS (Yamaha Power Valve System) now fully developed, this engine delivers 50 PS (37 kW) in its derestricted form. The power curve isn't so much a curve as a cliff edge - below 6,000 RPM it's tractable if underwhelming, but cross that magical threshold and the RD transforms into a screaming banshee.

The hit is brutal and intoxicating. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) comes up in under 5.5 seconds when you keep it "on the pipe," a figure that humbled many contemporary four-strokes. Top speed sits around 180 km/h (112 mph), but it's the way it gets there that matters - a frenzied rush accompanied by the metallic wail of expansion chambers and the sweet smell of Castrol R.

Maintaining this two-stroke fury requires attention. The 17/39 sprocket combo keeps the revs manageable at highway speeds, but chain maintenance is critical (106-link DID chain recommended). Spark plug choice (NGK BR9ES or iridium BR9EIX) and 0.8mm gap significantly affect crispness of response.

Handling & Braking

Modern sportbike riders might scoff at the RD's suspension specs - 35mm forks holding 282ml of 10W oil and twin shocks out back. But at speed, the LC comes alive. The short wheelbase and centralized mass make direction changes lightning fast. Crank the bars and the 170kg wet weight disappears, replaced by almost telepathic turn-in.

Ground clearance is limited by the hero-blob era footpegs, but the 2.4 bar (35 psi) front / 2.9 bar (42 psi) rear tire pressures (period-correct Bridgestone or Metzeler rubber) provide surprising grip when warmed up. Braking? The single 267mm front disc with twin-piston caliper requires serious lever effort by modern standards, but paired with the rear drum, it's adequate if you plan ahead.

The real trick is managing momentum - carry speed through corners rather than braking late. This bike rewards smoothness and anticipation, punishing ham-fisted inputs with a wagging tail or (in wet conditions) heart-stopping slides.

Competition

In its heyday, the RD 350 LC squared off against some legendary machines:

1. Kawasaki KR-1S (1989):
   The KR-1S's 249cc parallel twin made similar power (45 PS) in a lighter package. While more rev-hungry and peaky, it offered better suspension (38mm forks) and sharper handling. However, the Kawasaki lacked the RD's midrange punch and required even more meticulous maintenance.

2. Suzuki RGV250 Γ (1988):
   Suzuki's V-twin two-stroke brought a more sophisticated power delivery and aluminum frame. The RGV was faster around a track but less engaging on the street, with a powerband better suited to experts.

3. Honda NSR250R (1986):
   The Pro-Arm single-sided swingarm star offered RC Valve technology and Honda build quality. More refined than the Yamaha but also more sanitized - the NSR never quite matched the RD's raw character.

What sets the RD apart is its accessibility. The YPVS system's broader powerband makes it more street-friendly than its rivals, while the simple steel frame is easier (and cheaper) to maintain than aluminum alternatives. For riders wanting the two-stroke experience without constant top-end rebuilds, the LC struck a perfect balance.

Maintenance

Owning an RD 350 LC today is equal parts love affair and mechanical apprenticeship. Here's what every owner needs to know:

1. Oil Injection System
The Autolube system requires fresh 2T oil (1.6L capacity). Many owners convert to premix for reliability, but if keeping the oil pump, use JASO-FC certified injector oil and check lines annually.

2. Power Valve Maintenance
YPVS valves carbon up quickly. Clean every 3,000 km using Yamaha Power Valve cleaner. Sticking valves kill midrange power and can lead to catastrophic failure.

3. Cooling System
The 1.8L cooling system needs annual flushing. Replace original hoses with silicone units and monitor the water pump weep hole. Overheating warps heads faster than you can say "seizure."

4. Carburetion
Stock jetting (with 1.5 turns out on air screws) works for sea-level, but elevation changes require rejetting. Upgrade to Mikuni TMX flatslides for crisper response.

5. Electrics
The CDI units are robust but failure-prone. Carry spare spark plugs (NGK BR9ES) and consider a modern electronic ignition upgrade.

6. Top-End Rebuilds
Plan for piston/ring replacement every 8,000-10,000 km. Wiseco forged pistons last longer than OEM. Always check cylinder ovality and replate if necessary.

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations:
- Upgrade to NGK BR9EIX Iridium plugs for cleaner burning
- Install a Barnett clutch kit for improved lever feel
- Replace original chain with DID 520VX3 X-ring chain
- Use Motul 710 2T oil for optimal injector/piston protection

The Riding Experience

Firing up the RD is an event. Choke on, three priming kicks, then a solid boot - the engine lights with a blare of unburnt hydrocarbons that makes neighbors frown and enthusiasts grin. Warm-up is mandatory; let it idle at 1,200 RPM until the head pipe starts singing.

Around town, the LC is surprisingly docile. Keep below 5,000 RPM and it putters along like any commuter bike. But open a stretch of winding road and the transformation begins. Roll past half throttle in third gear, feel the YPVS valves open, and suddenly you're riding a missile. The horizon rushes up as the tach needle swings past 8,000 RPM, the expansion chambers screaming their operatic duet.

This isn't just speed - it's sensory overload. The vibrations through the clip-ons, the smell of hot castor oil, the way the front end goes light over crests... modern bikes are faster, but none deliver this intensity of experience.

Conclusion

The Yamaha RD 350 LC isn't just a motorcycle - it's a mechanical mood ring that reflects every input with unfiltered honesty. In an age of rider aids and homogenized performance, this two-stroke legend reminds us that raw, analog thrills still matter.

Yes, it drinks fuel (18L tank gives ~150 km range when ridden hard). Yes, it requires constant mechanical sympathy. But for those willing to embrace its quirks, the LC delivers something no modern bike can replicate - the unbridled joy of riding on the edge of chaos.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we keep these legends alive. Whether you need YPVS cables, upgraded suspension components, or just advice on jetting specs, our team lives for preserving two-stroke heritage. Your RD 350 LC deserves nothing less.

All specifications and maintenance procedures verified against Yamaha RD 350 LC factory service manuals. Riding impressions based on 1988 model with 12,000 km showing. Test conducted using Michelin Pilot Street Radial tires (period-correct compound) and Motul 710 2T lubrication.

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Specifications sheet

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