Built around Yamaha's classic motorcycle platform, the 1974 Yamaha RD 350 (6-speed) pairs a 347 cc (21.2 cu in) air-cooled twin, two-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 39 HP (28.5 kW) at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 32.7 Nm (24.1 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 112.4 HP per liter and a 500 rpm working window between peak torque (7,000 rpm) and peak power (7,500 rpm), 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 350 (6-speed) measures 162 kg (357 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.24 HP/kg (4.15 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 800 mm (31.5 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,321 mm (52 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 16-liter (4.2 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 7.15 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 224 km (139 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 180 km/h (112 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.
Specific Output
112.4 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.24 HP/kg (4.15 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,000–7,500 rpm
Theoretical Range
~224 km (139 mi)
Engine
Displacement347.0 ccm (21.17 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, two-stroke
Engine DetailsReed valve.
Power39.0 HP (28.5 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque32.7 Nm (3.3 kgf-m or 24.1 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM
Compression6.6:1
Bore x Stroke64.0 x 54.0 mm (2.5 x 2.1 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Mikuni VM28 SC
Fuel ControlMembrane
IgnitionDual coils, breaker points
LubricationAutomatic oil injection
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet, multi-plate
DrivelineConstant mesh
Performance
Top Speed180.0 km/h (111.8 mph)
Fuel Consumption7.15 litres/100 km (14.0 km/l or 32.90 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases165.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Frame TypeTubular, double cradle
Rake27.5°
Trail104 mm (4.1 inches)
Front SuspensionTelescopic forks
Rear SuspensionDual shocks
Wheelbase1321 mm (52.0 inches)
Ground Clearance163 mm (6.4 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre3.00-18
Rear Tyre3.25-18
Front BrakesSingle disc. Two-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø267 mm (10.5 inches)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake
Rear Brake Ø178 mm (7.0 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight155.0 kg (341.7 pounds)
Weight incl.162.0 kg (357.1 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2516 HP/kg
Seat Height800 mm (31.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
