c1973 Yamaha TR3/TZ350 Production Racer

Description

Yamaha's new production race bikes, the air-cooled TR2 and TR3, revolutionised road racing the world over from the time of their introduction in 1969, quickly becoming the benchmark in both Senior and Unlimited classes. In 1973 Yamaha introduced a new water-cooled model, the TZ350, producing an impressive 60 horsepower at 9,500 rpm with much improved reliability and again dominated racing, including Australia where Ken Blake won the 1974 350, 500cc and Unlimited titles on Yamaha's twins and his 'Coca Cola' liveried TZ350 is still remembered by many local bike racing enthusiasts. In 1974 Yamaha made only minor changes to the TZ350B but the TZ350C of 1976 incorporated a redesigned chassis with adjustable mono-shock rear suspension and twin piston front and rear disc brakes gave the new model a better ride and stopping power. Relatively few changes were made to the succeeding C and D variants, although changes to the ports, piston and exhaust resulted in a small increase in power to 64 bhp at 10,500 rpm. The TZ350E of 1978 had a new frame frame, with detachable alloy engine plates and the engine mounted in a more forward location. Today the TR3 and early drum brake TZ350A models have a cult following around the world and surviving examples are sought after by collectors and bike enthusiasts alike.