A distinctive 1974 Yamaha RD350 is now available for bidding on Bring a Trailer, showcasing a comprehensive café racer transformation inspired by classic road-racing machines. Previously built under former ownership, the motorcycle was acquired by its current owner in 2021 after spending an extended period in storage. Since then, it has undergone servicing and restoration work at Vintage Moto in Clayton, North Carolina, ensuring the iconic two-stroke is ready for its next caretaker.
The build centers around lightweight Cycle Craft fiberglass bodywork, refinished in a striking red during the current ownership. The package includes a race-style quarter fairing, sculpted fuel tank, and a matching seat pan fitted with a black racing saddle and a signature ducktail tail section. Completing the period-correct appearance is a yellow-tinted Gustafsson windscreen, while yellow racing number plates, a custom removable side stand, and a distinctive cat-eye taillight further reinforce the motorcycle’s vintage competition aesthetic.
Rolling on chrome-finished 18-inch wire-spoke wheels, the Yamaha is equipped with Pirelli Sport Demon tires for improved grip over the original setup. The suspension has also received notable upgrades, featuring a rebuilt telescopic front fork paired with adjustable Mulholland rear shocks, allowing riders to fine-tune handling characteristics. Braking consists of a drilled front disc with a two-piston caliper, while a traditional rear drum brake maintains the bike’s classic engineering.
The cockpit continues the purposeful racing theme with a Tommaselli Clubman handlebar fitted with quilted grips and a Matador clutch perch. Ahead of the rider sits a handcrafted aluminum instrument panel carrying a rubber-mounted Nippon Seiki tachometer with a 10,500-rpm redline alongside a Royal Industries Ltd. (RIL) speedometer capable of reading up to 160 mph. Custom rear-set foot controls place the rider in an aggressive riding position suited to the café racer layout.
Power comes from Yamaha’s legendary 347cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin, which has been upgraded with ported cylinders and reed-valve induction. Fuel delivery is handled by dual Mikuni VM-series carburetors breathing through pod filters, while a pair of low-mounted Bassani expansion chambers amplifies both performance and the unmistakable exhaust note that made the RD350 famous.
The engine channels power to the rear wheel through a six-speed manual transmission and chain final drive, preserving the lightweight, high-revving character that earned the RD350 its reputation as one of the most entertaining middleweight motorcycles of the 1970s. Offered without reserve, this carefully prepared café racer presents an appealing opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a race-inspired classic with authentic period performance.
1974 Yamaha RD350 Cafe Racer For Sale – Image Gallery
