The Rajdoot 350, a legendary motorcycle, holds a special place in India’s motorcycling history. While many enthusiasts remember it as a rebadged Yamaha RD350, the Rajdoot 350 was more than just a clone—it was India’s first true power cruiser, designed to offer a thrilling riding experience long before modern performance bikes entered the scene. This article delves into the untold story of the Rajdoot 350, its impact on the Indian market, and why it remains a cult classic today.
The Birth of Rajdoot 350: Yamaha RD350’s Indian Avatar
In the early 1980s, Escorts Group, in collaboration with Yamaha Japan, introduced the Rajdoot 350, derived from the globally renowned Yamaha RD350. The goal was to provide Indian riders with a powerful yet affordable motorcycle. However, due to fuel efficiency concerns and high maintenance costs, the Rajdoot 350 faced an uphill battle.
Key Specifications of Rajdoot 350
- Engine: 347cc, twin-cylinder, air-cooled, two-stroke
- Power Output: 30-31 bhp (HT version), 27 bhp (LT version)
- Torque: 32 Nm @ 6,500 RPM
- Top Speed: 130-140 km/h
- Weight: 155 kg
- Brakes: Front drum, rear drum (no disc brakes at the time)
Despite its impressive specs, the Rajdoot 350 struggled due to fuel economy concerns, giving it a reputation as a “rich man’s toy.”
Why Was the Rajdoot 350 Called India’s First Power Cruiser?
The term “power cruiser” refers to motorcycles that combine strong performance with comfortable ergonomics. The Rajdoot 350, with its high torque output, relaxed yet sporty riding position, and excellent cruising ability, made it the first motorcycle in India to offer such a package.
Key Aspects That Made It a Power Cruiser:
✅ Twin-Cylinder Performance: Unlike other Indian bikes of the time, the Rajdoot 350 had a powerful two-stroke twin-cylinder engine that made it one of the fastest motorcycles in the country. ✅ Cruising Comfort: With a long seat, upright handlebars, and smooth power delivery, the bike was perfect for long highway rides. ✅ Raw Power & Acceleration: The Rajdoot 350’s 0-100 km/h acceleration time was unmatched in its era, making it a favorite among speed lovers. ✅ Unrivaled Road Presence: Its aggressive stance, chrome-heavy design, and deep exhaust note ensured that the Rajdoot 350 commanded attention wherever it went.
Challenges & Decline of Rajdoot 350
Despite its cult status, the Rajdoot 350 faced several obstacles:
- Fuel Inefficiency: With a mileage of around 20-25 km/l, the bike was seen as impractical during a time when fuel prices were rising.
- High Maintenance Costs: The two-stroke engine required frequent servicing, making it expensive to maintain.
- Competition from Fuel-Efficient Bikes: The rise of Hero Honda CD100 and Yamaha RX100 made fuel-efficient motorcycles more popular, pushing the Rajdoot 350 into a niche market.
- Government Regulations: Stricter emission norms eventually made two-stroke bikes obsolete, leading to the discontinuation of the Rajdoot 350 in the late 1980s.
The Rajdoot 350’s Cult Following Today
Though production ended decades ago, the Rajdoot 350 has developed a massive fan following among vintage bike enthusiasts. Restorations, custom builds, and collectors’ models have helped keep its legacy alive.
Why Is It Still Popular?
🔥 Nostalgia Factor: Many riders who owned or dreamed of owning one in the 80s and 90s still seek restored models. 🔥 Unique Riding Experience: The raw power and thrill of a two-stroke twin-cylinder engine are unmatched by modern motorcycles. 🔥 Limited Availability: Finding a well-maintained Rajdoot 350 is rare, making it a prized collector’s item. 🔥 Rising Vintage Motorcycle Market: With the boom in classic bike restorations, demand for the Rajdoot 350 has increased significantly.
Where to Find a Rajdoot 350 Today?
If you’re looking to buy or restore a Rajdoot 350, here are the best sources:
- Vintage Motorcycle Dealers – Check specialized dealers in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
- Online Classifieds – Websites like OLX, Facebook Marketplace, and BikeDekho sometimes have listings for Rajdoot 350s.
- Restoration Experts & Workshops – Some garages specialize in restoring classic bikes.
- Rajdoot 350 Owners’ Groups – Joining a club can help you connect with sellers and experts.
The Timeless Appeal of Rajdoot 350
The Rajdoot 350 was ahead of its time, bringing power, style, and performance to Indian roads when most motorcycles were built for economy. Though it was discontinued, it remains an iconic power cruiser, cherished by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
For those who love vintage motorcycles, owning a Rajdoot 350 is like owning a piece of India’s biking history. If you ever get the chance to ride one, don’t miss out—it’s a two-stroke legend that still roars with pride!
FAQs
1. Was the Rajdoot 350 a copy of the Yamaha RD350? Yes, it was a rebadged and slightly detuned version of the Yamaha RD350 produced for the Indian market by Escorts Group.
2. How fast could the Rajdoot 350 go? The bike had a top speed of 130-140 km/h, depending on the version and modifications.
3. Is the Rajdoot 350 still available for sale? While new models are not in production, you can find used or restored versions in vintage bike markets.
4. How much does a Rajdoot 350 cost today? Depending on condition, a Rajdoot 350 in India can cost anywhere between ₹80,000 to ₹2.5 lakh, especially for well-maintained or restored models.
5. Can I modify a Rajdoot 350? Yes! Many enthusiasts convert it into café racers, scramblers, or bobbers while keeping its classic appeal intact.
🚀 Do you own or dream of owning a Rajdoot 350? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
