Description
By: Phil West .
Yamaha's RD35OLC of the early to mid-'80s grabbed the hearts of a generation of youth like nothing before.
With more than a nod in the direction of Yamaha's dominant TZ250 and 350 racers, the LC was not only the first liquid-cooled (hence the initials) lightweight, two-stroke sports bike, it was the first mass-produced monoshock-equipped machine, too.
In fact, it had it all. It was the fastest bike in its class, the best handling and the best looking. And if it was the most expensive, too, then that only added to the allure. Besides, at just over £1000 in the early '80s, it was still affordable. It sold spectacularly well, and the 'Cult of Elsie' was born.
But the LC story is not just about the nuts and bolts of a motorcycle. It's the story of a long history of Yamaha two-stroke development, of pioneering engineers, racers, stylists and tuners, of a bold idea to fashion a bike purely for Europe, and of the culture, enthusiasm and invention of a generation of disaffected youth.
It's a story graced with the names of the good and the great – the late Barry Sheene, 'King' Kenny Roberts and the likes of great British racers Niall Mackenzie and Jamie Whitham.
And it's also a story that has never fully been told before – until now.
The story is recounted by former Editor of Bike magazine and experienced motorcycling journalist, Phil West, who himself has owned six examples of the LC over the years. Phil has tirelessly researched the 'Elsie' story, and along the way has uncovered a number of previously unpublished photographs of the bikes.
For anyone who remembers the LC in its early '80s pomp or who yearns after an example today, this book is essential reading.
