Yamaha RD350LC
88/100 Overall
77 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha RD350LC vs Moto Morini 3½ Sport
Yamaha RD350LC scores 88/100 overall against Moto Morini 3½ Sport on 79/100. On the road: 77–70. As classics: 98–88. Overall result: Yamaha RD350LC.
Photo: Michel Curi · CC BY 2.0
Moto Morini 3½ Sport
79/100 Overall
70 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD350LC | Moto Morini 3½ | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 6 | Yamaha RD350LC |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 6 | Yamaha RD350LC |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 8 | Yamaha RD350LC |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 8 | Yamaha RD350LC |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Yamaha RD350LC if…
you want one of Britain's most loved 1980s performance bikes, with a thrilling powerband, sharp handling and enormous nostalgia.
Choose the Moto Morini 3½ if…
you want a light, beautifully balanced Italian V-twin with modest power but exceptional charm and handling.
Background
History
Yamaha RD350LC
The Yamaha RD350LC was produced from 1980–1983 and used a 347cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, collector appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Moto Morini 3½
The Moto Morini 3½ Sport was produced from 1974–1989 and used a 344cc air-cooled V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, handling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha RD350LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1980 to 1983.
- The recorded engine description is: 347cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, collector appeal, character.
Moto Morini 3½
- Its production span in this library runs from 1974 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 344cc air-cooled V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, handling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha RD350LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD350LC. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Moto Morini 3½
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Moto Morini 3½ Sport. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Yamaha RD350LC
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Moto Morini 3½
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Yamaha RD350LC
Rivals to the Moto Morini 3½
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha RD350LC wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RD350LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD350LC takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.