IAB reader Prateek Khanna of Bluesmoke customs is back with another restored Yamaha RD350 and similar to the motorcycles that he had revived in the past, this one too looks just as good as new.
Also read: Autologue Design creates Yamaha YZF-R3 cafe racer render with RD350 inspired styling
The 1986 Yamaha RD350 was not in the best of shape when it arrived in the garage. Prateek installed a new fuel tank with high-quality paint and inner side anti-rust, gave the motorcycle new mudguards, silencers, side panels, meters, indicators and chain cover. The engine covers were repainted, and the head was given a chrome finish.
Loads of chrome complements the new bodywork. The fascia, for example, features a chrome mask for the headlight. The blinkers get chrome housing while the front fender gets a complete chrome finish. The wire-spoke wheels shine just like a mirror disco ball. The chrome treatment continues on the rearview mirrors, fuel filler cap, crash guards, exhaust pipes, rear fender, rear springs and the chain cover.
The revised paint scheme features a shade of blue, with contrasting graphics in white and black colour. The ‘350 Torque Induction’ badge sits on the side panels. The original cockpit and the chrome fuel-filler cap give it a proper retro look from the rider’s seat. The saddle has been retained from the stock motorcycle although it now gets an extra cushion to enhance the comfort.
Stopping power comes from a disc brake at the front and a drum unit at the rear. The mechanical specifications have been kept stock. Aficionados would know that the RD350 came in two power options – 'High Torque (HT)' and 'Low Torque (LT)'. The HT version, which initially produced 39 bhp, was re-tuned to deliver 30.5 bhp. The LT variant, on the other hand, makes 27 bhp.
Suspension setup is standard, and shock absorptions duties are performed by conventional telescopic forks at the front and twin sided springs at the rear.
Also read: Will the 2019 Yamaha YZF-R3 go through a heavy localization program?
What are you waiting for? Send us the story and photographs of your retro/restored bike to suvil@indianautosblog.com, and if we like it, you'll see it on our homepage.
