Yamaha RZ350 Review – History, Specs, Performance & Why It Became a Legend

The Yamaha RZ350 is not just a motorcycle—it’s a legend that rewrote India’s performance biking history. Launched in the 1980s, this iconic two-stroke beast delivered explosive acceleration, an unforgettable exhaust scream, and raw power that modern machines still struggle to match emotionally. From its parallel-twin engine to its race-bred DNA, the RZ350 became every rider’s dream and every competitor’s nightmare. Even decades after discontinuation, the Yamaha RZ350 continues to dominate collector garages and enthusiast conversations, proving that true legends never fade—they only grow louder with time.

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The Birth of the Yamaha RZ350 in India

The Yamaha RZ350 was launched in India in 1983 by Yamaha Motor India, in collaboration with Escorts Group. At a time when the market was dominated by fuel-efficient commuters, Yamaha took a bold step by introducing a high-performance 347cc two-stroke motorcycle.

Initially, the RZ350 was offered in two versions:

• High Torque (HT)

• Low Torque (LT)

This was done to comply with emission norms and fuel quality concerns in India. However, even the detuned LT version delivered performance that was unheard of in its era.

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Engine & Performance: Pure Two-Stroke Madness

At the heart of the Yamaha RZ350 lies a 347cc, parallel-twin, two-stroke engine, air-cooled and carbureted.

Engine Specifications:

• Displacement: 347 cc

• Configuration: Parallel twin, two-stroke

• Power (HT): ~30.5 bhp

• Power (LT): ~27 bhp

• Transmission: 6-speed manual

• Top Speed: ~150 km/h

What made the RZ350 legendary was not just its top speed, but its ferocious acceleration. The powerband hit hard, delivering an adrenaline rush that modern bikes rarely replicate.

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Sound, Smoke & Soul

One cannot talk about the Yamaha RZ350 without mentioning its iconic exhaust note. The twin exhausts produced a sharp, raspy scream that instantly turned heads. The smell of burnt two-stroke oil became part of the experience.

This sensory overload—sound, vibration, and raw power—is exactly why the RZ350 remains unmatched in emotional appeal.

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Design & Styling: Timeless and Purposeful

By today’s standards, the RZ350 looks simple—but that simplicity is what gives it timeless charm.

Key Design Highlights:

• Round headlamp with chrome bezel

• Flat seat with classic proportions

• Twin rear shock absorbers

• Dual exhaust pipes

• Analog speedometer and tachometer

The bike looked muscular, purposeful, and fast even when standing still. Unlike modern fully-faired bikes, the RZ350 wore its mechanical soul proudly.

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Handling & Ride Quality

The Yamaha RZ350 was surprisingly capable in corners for its time.

• Front Suspension: Telescopic forks

• Rear Suspension: Twin shock absorbers

• Brakes: Front disc, rear drum

• Kerb Weight: ~155 kg

While the suspension setup was basic, the bike’s balanced chassis and strong mid-range power made it thrilling on twisty roads. However, the brakes required respect—this was a machine that demanded skill.

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Mileage & Practicality

Let’s be honest—the RZ350 was never about fuel efficiency.

• Real-world mileage: 20–25 km/l

• Required frequent maintenance

• Two-stroke oil mixing was mandatory

These factors limited its mass appeal in a cost-conscious Indian market. As fuel prices rose and emission norms tightened, the RZ350’s days were numbered.

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Why the Yamaha RZ350 Was Discontinued

Despite its popularity, the RZ350 was discontinued in 1990 due to:

• Strict emission regulations

• Poor fuel economy

• Rising maintenance costs

• Shift toward four-stroke engines

However, discontinuation only strengthened its cult status. Scarcity made it more desirable, and today, surviving units are prized possessions.

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Yamaha RZ350 in Today’s Collector Market

The used RZ350 price in India varies dramatically based on condition and originality.

Current Market Value:

• Average condition: ₹2–4 lakh

• Fully restored / original: ₹6–10 lakh+

Restoration is expensive due to rare parts, but enthusiasts consider it a worthy investment—both emotionally and financially.

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Modifications & Restomods

Many owners choose to restomod their RZ350s:

• Upgraded carburetors

• Disc brake conversions

• Modern suspension

• Custom exhausts

However, purists still prefer bone-stock examples, as originality holds the highest value.

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Yamaha RZ350 vs Modern Motorcycles

Compared to today’s bikes, the RZ350 may seem outdated on paper. But numbers don’t tell the full story.

The RZ350 delivers something modern bikes rarely do—pure mechanical emotion.

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Why the Yamaha RZ350 Is Still a Legend

The Yamaha earned its legendary status because it:

• Introduced true performance biking in India

• Delivered unmatched two-stroke thrill

• Created lifelong enthusiasts

• Became a cultural icon

It wasn’t perfect—but it was unforgettable.

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Final Verdict

The Yamaha RZ350 is more than a motorcycle; it’s a symbol of rebellion, speed, and raw engineering. While modern bikes are faster, safer, and more efficient, none can replicate the visceral thrill of an RZ350 at full song. For collectors, enthusiasts, and purists, this Yamaha will forever remain India’s most iconic performance motorcycle.