RD 250 (5-speed)

1974 Yamaha RD 250 (5-speed) Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Engineered by Yamaha for the naked motorcycle segment, the 1974 Yamaha RD 250 (5-speed) relies on a 247 cc (15.1 cu in) air-cooled twin, two-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 30 HP (21.9 kW) at 7,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 121.5 HP per liter, the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the RD 250 (5-speed) measures 162 kg (357 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.19 HP/kg (5.4 kg per horsepower). The 16-liter (4.2 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 155 km/h (96 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Yamaha archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 1973 to 1974, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.