For some individuals, finding a comfortable seating position proves to be a genuine challenge. Take Stu Lloyd for instance. Just four months after showcasing his Yamaha SR400e, this talented individual is back with another stunning custom creation. Here is the rewritten text:
Stu’s 1981 Yamaha RD350LC pays tribute to the iconic Pro/Am sequence bikes of his teenage years, which left an indelible mark on his motorcycle enthusiasm. This architectural masterpiece is a bold fusion of classic elegance and modern flair, deliberately designed to raise an eyebrow and bring joy.
“For over a decade, Stu has been on the lookout for a Yamaha RD350LC to build his dream hybrid motorcycle without breaking the bank.” “Last summer, my 15-year-old son asked me to find him a dirt bike.” I acquired a neglected ’78 Yamaha YZ400, its bright yellow and black livery crying out for a thorough restoration to reclaim its former glory. The classic motorcycle was thoroughly refurbished, then enthusiastically enjoyed on leisurely getaways. Upon returning from our vacations, we realized that keeping the YZ idle for the entire year was a missed opportunity. So, when we spotted an identical quantity’s Canadian RD350LC hit the domestic market, we seized the chance to buy the YZ and snag the new bike.
Stu’s ambitious dream of starting a revolutionary dietary venture had finally taken off. Fated to become a treasured family keepsake, he spared no effort or expense in crafting something truly special.
“For a design that would exude clarity and precision, Stu employed the latest cutting-edge technology while ensuring it remained unmistakably an RD350LC.” “As with every creative endeavour I undertake, it’s a mental exercise that begins with a clear vision in my mind.” Standing in the workshop, I gaze at it for hours on end? From the type of exhaust to the overall design, form, strain, stance, and colour.
Stu’s aesthetic objective for this venture is to create a sense of sheer awe, which he dubs “OMGWTF”. By intentionally crafting this way, he aims to elicit a specific response from RD enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of two-strokes.
To ensure the revamped bicycles stood out while also meeting riders’ needs, Stu devoted meticulous attention to selecting the most impactful upgrades. A significant upgrade was required to bolster the performance of the RD350LC brakes’ precedence in addressing issues to achieve enhanced results.
Stu initiated the refurbishment process by comprehensively reengineering the Yamaha’s rear assembly to ensure adequate braking performance. He sourced the necessary components to upgrade his motorcycle: a rear wheel, brake provider, and caliper, all salvaged from a 2001 Suzuki SV650. Stu subsequently invested a substantial sum in a bespoke swingarm designed specifically for his motorcycle, seeking to optimize its performance and handling capabilities.
Fabricated from high-grade 6061 T6 billet aluminum, the RD350LC’s distinctive swingarm boasts a one-of-a-kind design that perfectly complements its overall aesthetic. The brand-new unit seamlessly integrates with the existing mounting fixtures, eliminating the need for any modifications to the vehicle’s body. With the newly installed swingarm in place, Stu tackled the brake system upgrade by specifying high-performance components: Yamaha R1 gold-spot calipers paired with a lightweight titanium rotor designed for racing. Upon entering, one will notice significant upgrades courtesy of the installation of a ’99 Yamaha R1 wheel and gold spot brake caliper. Wes Moto has outfitted his latest project with brand-new, high-quality chrome steel brake lines to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
While the Yamaha’s handling left much to be desired, its most glaring weakness lay in its antiquated suspension setup. Steuart once again leaned on his existing knowledge of R1 to find a solution. The ensemble is now completed by the integration of Yamaha R1 forks, featuring their original triple clamps, accompanied by an R1 fender and brake caliper, all of which are presented in an upside-down configuration alongside the wheel.
Despite Stu’s initial reservations, he conceded that the R1 forks were indeed overkill for the RD, yet managed to achieve the coveted “beefy” look by delivering a straightforward enhancement to the bike’s entrance.
He aimed to elevate the bike’s rear section by 10 centimeters, seeking a sporty, race-inspired silhouette with a more aggressive posture. To meet this requirement, Stu has installed a taller and even more successful YSS rear shock with peak-adjustable settings.
After completing the brake upgrade for the RD’s vehicle, naturally, attention turned to enhancing the engine performance.
While two-stroke engines can be notoriously temperamental when it comes to optimizing their efficiency through engine upgrades, as Stu notes. Stu made the calculated decision to limit mods for his engine, instead opting for a tested and reliable approach. His chosen configuration consisted of larger Mikuni VM28 carbs sourced from a 1976 Yamaha RD350, paired with Uni’s pink foam racing filters, a lightweight aluminum radiator from an RD/TZ, and Banshee racing coils. The engine’s exhaust issues were successfully resolved by installing a high-performance 2-into-2 Jim Lamas Racing exhaust system with a road-approved enlargement chamber.
Stu’s engine strategy allowed him to overhaul the vehicle’s internal mechanics seamlessly. Packed within the 347cc two-stroke parallel twin engine, you’ll find innovative components that elevate performance: a fresh crankshaft, connecting rods, cylinders, and pistons.
Despite his original plan to stick with standard engine upgrades, Stu’s curiosity gets the better of him and he begins conducting experiments on his customized motorcycle build. I endeavored to explore alternative reeds and install the RZ350 reed cage for a unique experience. The owner installed a 10mm spacer and precision-honed the engine’s inlet to accommodate the larger cage before switching to high-performance carbon fibre reeds.
Stu ultimately required 56 iterations of trial-and-error adjustments, meticulously removing the seat and gas tank each time, to finally achieve optimal carburetor settings. An activity made much more challenging due to the fact that he resides at an elevation of 3,000 feet above sea level. Here is the rewritten text:
Fortunately, his unwavering dedication ultimately yielded a remarkable two-stroke track that’s sure to rev up the engines of even the most discerning petrol enthusiasts.
According to Stu, purists won’t be pleased with his custom RD350LC project, but he believes anyone can refurbish a motorcycle simply by replacing parts with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) components. Compliance with the established design strategy occurs seamlessly, ensuring a consistent and cohesive visual identity for our brand. I aimed to build the LC Hooligan-inspired motorcycle in its authentic form within a single day. Disparaged as loud, nasty, snarly by some, yet others find this phenomenon undeniably funky? After rigorous testing and utilization in its native environment, I confidently assert that it exceeds those exacting standards!
After an intensive 11-month endeavour, Stu finally completed his meticulous restoration of the Yamaha RD530LC. The project’s completion was hindered by unforeseen pandemic-related postal disruptions. While building a motorbike of this caliber may take 11 months, whether one considers that pace slow or not, this resto-mod classic is undeniably long overdue.
We would like to extend our gratitude to Derek at Trillion Industries for the exceptional fabrication and welding services he has provided throughout this project.
