The Yamaha Rajdoot 350 isn’t just a motorcycle — it’s a symbol of speed, legacy, and the birth of performance biking in India. Originally launched in 1983 through a collaboration between Escorts India and Yamaha Japan, it was based on the legendary Yamaha RD350. With groundbreaking acceleration, top speed, and road presence, the Rajdoot 350 was India’s first real taste of a performance motorcycle — and it made history.
Let’s dive deep into what made this machine a cult icon — from its styling and specs to its unforgettable performance.
Design and Styling: Rugged and Vintage
The Rajdoot 350 combined old-school charm with pure muscle. With its bold round headlamp, dual-pod analog meter, elongated fuel tank with rubber knee grips, and twin exhausts, it oozed vintage charisma. The seat was flat and comfy, making it perfect for cruising with a pillion. Its clean and raw styling still turns heads, and even today, collectors admire its simple yet striking design.
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New Yamaha Rajdoot 350
Though officially discontinued, modern enthusiasts and render artists keep imagining what a new-age Rajdoot 350 might look like — blending retro appeal with modern refinements. Its legendary silhouette continues to inspire.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Rajdoot 350 was a 347cc, air-cooled, parallel-twin, two-stroke engine — pure adrenaline for its time. It came in two variants:
- HT (High Torque) version producing around 30.5 bhp.
Both versions were equipped with a 6-speed gearbox that offered rapid gear shifts. The bike could sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just about 7 seconds and reach a top speed close to 140 km/h — insane figures for 1980s Indian roads!
Features and Ride Quality
Even by today’s standards, the Rajdoot 350 was ahead of its time. Standout features included:
- Twin carburetors for quick throttle response
- Autolube system — eliminating the need for premixed fuel
- Telescopic front forks and dual shock absorbers for a smooth ride
- Twin “shotgun-style” silencers that gave the bike its iconic growl
However, it lacked disc brakes — a risky omission on such a fast bike — with only drum brakes at both ends. But that didn’t stop adrenaline lovers from chasing thrills on this beast.
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Economy, Fuel Usage and Maintenance
If there was one area the Rajdoot 350 struggled, it was mileage. With an average of 15–25 km/l, it wasn’t wallet-friendly by Indian standards. Add to that its hunger for high-octane fuel, expensive maintenance, and a shortage of skilled mechanics — and it was simply not built for the common man.
Yet, true enthusiasts didn’t mind the premium. The experience and performance it delivered were worth every rupee.
Market Reception and Production History
Escorts Limited manufactured the Rajdoot 350 between 1983 and 1990. However, only around 7,000 units were ever produced. Due to its high cost, poor mileage, and limited service network, it failed to appeal to the mass market. But for those who bought it, the bike became a cherished possession — and a ticket to motorcycle royalty.
Legacy and Cult Following
Over the years, the Rajdoot 350 has become a collector’s dream. Today, it enjoys a cult status among vintage bike collectors and two-stroke fans. Clubs and forums dedicated to the Rajdoot 350 are still active, with lovingly restored models showcased at vintage motorcycle expos and rallies.
Even 40 years later, the legacy of the RD350 lives on — influencing new-generation performance bikes and stirring emotions among motorheads.
Conclusion
The Yamaha Rajdoot 350 wasn’t just a motorcycle — it was a revolution on two wheels. While it didn’t dominate the sales charts, it carved a niche and set the benchmark for performance biking in India. It proved that Indian riders were ready for power, speed, and global-level engineering.
The Rajdoot 350 is still remembered not just as a bike — but as an era, an experience, and an eternal icon. Whether you’re a rider, a restorer, or simply an admirer of classic machines — the Rajdoot is a name you’ll never forget.
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