Development of Yamaha RD 250LC Two-stroke
While the revolution of RDLC bike was started with the 350cc model in Paris in 1979, her smaller sister Yamaha RD250LC played a large part on the European market, especially amongst learner riders.
Since riders demanded higher performance sports looking bikes, the governments all round the world were tightening their regulations on emissions. The two-stroke twin cylinder old RD had to be redesigned to meet the changing criteria, yet still be fun to ride!
The old-fashioned air cooling system was therefore replaced with water cooling (thus LC model), new carbs were fitted, new cylinders, new exhaust, motor steady bars and new reed valve all meant that the new LC models were meeting both demands.
To finish the package off, the Japanese designers added other tried and tested features like electronic ignition, mono-cross suspension and disc brakes on the front wheel. The optional fairings were just a cherry on the cake. It was an ideal cross between the old RD series and the TZ racers.
The life of two-stroke water cooled RD350LC and RD250LC was short-lived though, innovations to cooling and exhaust system were just one step forward, a whole new system was in making and in 1983 the Yamaha Power Valve System opened a brand-new chapter.
Compared to a modern bike, the 250cc LC classic bike was said to be a bit wobbly and skittish, but back in them days, that was all part of the fun! Little design flaws had to be overcome if you wanted to race the RD250LC two strokes back in the days. The most common modifications were removing the rear mudguards and indicator stems, so they might be the restoration nightmare to replace.
Yamaha RD250LC Parts
As motorcycles evolved so did parts, some are still being used nowadays and are available from authorised dealers directly, some were made obsolete. We offer OEM parts as well as top quality reproductions of some of the most desired RD250LC spares on the market.
In our dedicated category, you can find parts such as indicator lenses, front and rear footrests, kick-start and gear lever rubbers, panel grommets, fork seals, hand grips, seat dampers, various seals and gaskets, intake hoses and many more.
We add to our stock on a regular basis, both importing OEM parts from Japan or reproducing those parts that have been obsolete for years. If you can’t find the part you are looking for, please email us, and we will do our best to source it out.
Technical Specifications of Yamaha RD250LC
Model: Yamaha RD250LC
Year: 1980-86
Motorcycle Type: Standard Bike
Dry weight: 139 kg
Fuel tank size: 16.50 Litres
Engine, Intake & Transmission
Displacement: 247 cc
Engine: 2-stroke parallel twin
Top speed: 163.0 km/h (101.3 mph)
Fuel system: VM26 Mikuni Carburetors
Ignition: CDI
Lubrication system: Yamaha autolube
Cooling system: Liquid cooled
Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission: Chain drive
Starting: Kickstarter
Chassis, suspension, brakes and wheels
Frame type: Steel tube
Ground clearance: 165 mm
Front suspension: Telescopic forks
Rear suspension: Yamaha Monocross
Front brakes: Single disc brake
Rear brakes: Drum brake
For VIN numbers go to RD350LC forum