At the heart of the 1980 Yamaha RD 350 sport touring motorcycle, Yamaha utilizes a 347 cc (21.2 cu in) air-cooled twin, two-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 47 HP (34.3 kW) at 8,700 rpm while maximum torque reaches 40.2 Nm (29.7 lb-ft) at 4,100 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 135.4 HP per liter and a 4,600 rpm working window between peak torque (4,100 rpm) and peak power (8,700 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 measures 150 kg (331 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.31 HP/kg (3.19 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 785 mm (30.9 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,365 mm (53.7 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 17-liter (4.5 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5.47 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 311 km (193 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 178 km/h (111 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Yamaha archive, this model family spans 7 indexed model years from 1975 to 1988, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
135.4 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.31 HP/kg (3.19 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
4,100–8,700 rpm
Theoretical Range
~311 km (193 mi)
Engine
Displacement347.0 ccm (21.17 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, two-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, two-stroke
Power47.0 HP (34.3 kW)) @ 8700 RPM
Torque40.2 Nm (4.1 kgf-m or 29.7 ft.lbs) @ 4100 RPM
Compression6.9:1
Bore x Stroke64.0 x 54.0 mm (2.5 x 2.1 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor
Fuel ControlMembrane
IgnitionFlywheel magneto CDI
LubricationAutolube
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet multiplate
Performance
Top Speed178.0 km/h (110.6 mph)
Fuel Consumption5.47 litres/100 km (18.3 km/l or 43.00 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases126.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Frame TypeTubular steel, double front downtubes
Front Suspension32mm stanchion tube forks
Rear SuspensionSingle shock cantilever, 5-way adjustable spring preload
Wheelbase1365 mm (53.7 inches)
Ground Clearance165 mm (6.5 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre3.00-18
Rear Tyre3.50-18
Front BrakesDouble disc. 0
Front Brake Ø267 mm (10.5 inches)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight143.0 kg (315.3 pounds)
Weight incl.150.0 kg (330.7 pounds)
Power/Weight0.3287 HP/kg
Seat Height785 mm (30.9 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.
