YAMAHA RD250/350LCs PERFORMANCE PORTFOLIO 1980-1996: Road Test Book Paperback – January 1, 1999

A portfolio of contemporary articles leads us through the development of the Yamaha RD250/350LCs. Included are: road and comparison tests • new model introductions • long term tests • racing, buyer’s guide and history. Built chiefly with the European market in mind and emulating the TZ racer, the launch of the RD LC in 1980 played a major part in motorcycling history. Commissioned by Yamaha Amsterdam the LC, or Elsie as it became known, was styled by Mike Oldfield with the assistance of John Mockett who came up with the famous Italic wheels, the pro-Am fairing and belly pan. It was the first bike to have a list of extras, such as expansion chambers, race-tuned engines and race-replica paintwork. The cult of the Elsie is still ongoing and there are plenty being restored and fettled by enthusiasts. After so many years what other bike can claim to have stirred so many people’s emotions in this way? Read more