The Rajdoot 350, an iconic motorcycle, occupies a unique and cherished position in the history of Indian two-wheelers. Its powerful engine, advanced design, and association with Yamaha made it a revolutionary model in its era. This bike, often referred to as the Yamaha RD350 internationally gained a cult following for its unmatched speed and performance.
This article delves into every aspect of the Rajdoot 350, including its specifications, pricing, mileage, top speed, engine details, and much more. We’ll also explore its variants, discuss its historical relevance, and address some common questions about this iconic machine.
A Historical Overview
The Rajdoot 350 debuted in India in the early 1980s, manufactured by Escorts Group under a licensing agreement with Yamaha. The bike was a rebranded version of the globally renowned Yamaha RD350. While it was marketed as a premium motorcycle for enthusiasts, the bike struggled to find a mass market due to its high price and running costs.
Despite its commercial challenges, the Rajdoot 350 remains a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts, thanks to its legacy and high-performance capabilities.
Rajdoot 350 Models and Variants
Rajdoot 350 Standard
The standard version offered uncompromising power and speed, making it one of the fastest bikes of its time.
- Engine: 347cc, 2-stroke, parallel-twin engine
- Power Output: 30.5 HP
- Torque: 32 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual gearbox
- Mileage: 25 km/l
- Top Speed: 140 km/h
- Weight: 155 kg
Rajdoot 175
While the Rajdoot 175 was a smaller, more affordable alternative, it gained popularity for its practicality and reliability.
- Engine: 173cc, 2-stroke, single-cylinder engine
- Power Output: 9 HP
- Mileage: 30 km/l
- Top Speed: 100 km/h
- Price: ₹70,000 (average resale value)
Speculated Rajdoot 350 New Model (2025)
Rumors of a revamped Rajdoot 350 entering the market have generated excitement among enthusiasts. Expected features include:
- Engine: 350cc, BS6-compliant
- Power Output: 40 HP
- Mileage: 30 km/l
- Top Speed: 150 km/h
- Price: ₹2,00,000 to ₹2,50,000
Rajdoot 350 Specifications
SpecificationDetails
Engine Type 2-stroke, parallel twin
Displacement 347cc
Power Output 30.5 HP
Torque 32 Nm
Top Speed 140 km/h
Mileage 25 km/l
Fuel Tank Capacity 16 liters
Cooling System Air-cooled
Transmission 6-speed manual
Weight 155 kg
Brakes Drum brakes (front and rear)
Frame Type Double cradle
Price of Rajdoot 350
When the Rajdoot 350 launched in the 1980s, it was priced at around ₹18,000, which was considered a premium for its time. Today, the bike’s value has skyrocketed due to its rarity and collectability.
- Resale Value: ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000, depending on its condition.
- Rajdoot 350 New Model (speculated): ₹2,00,000 to ₹2,50,000 (expected on-road price).
For those looking to purchase a Rajdoot 350 for sale, platforms like OLX often feature listings from collectors.
Performance: Mileage and Top Speed
The Rajdoot 350 was built for speed and performance, which came at the cost of fuel efficiency.
- Mileage: 25 km/l
- Top Speed: 140 km/h
These figures made the bike a game-changer during its time, but its relatively low mileage and high maintenance requirements contributed to its limited appeal.
Why Did the Rajdoot 350 Fail in India?
The Rajdoot 350 encountered several challenges that ultimately resulted in its discontinuation:
High Cost
Priced significantly higher than other bikes of its era, the Rajdoot 350 was out of reach for the average buyer.
Poor Mileage
With a fuel efficiency of just 25 km/l, it didn’t align with the fuel-conscious Indian market.
Maintenance Issues
The high-performance 2-stroke engine required frequent servicing, adding to ownership costs.
Competition
Bikes like the Bullet 350 offered better mileage and lower maintenance costs, making them more popular.
Emission Norms
The 2-stroke engine couldn’t meet evolving environmental regulations, leading to its eventual discontinuation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Yamaha and Rajdoot the Same?
No, but they are connected. Yamaha is a Japanese manufacturer, while Rajdoot was a brand under Escorts Group in India. The Rajdoot 350 was a licensed adaptation of Yamaha’s RD350.
What Is the Top Speed of the Rajdoot 350?
The bike’s top speed is an impressive 140 km/h.
How Much Horsepower Does the Rajdoot 350 Have?
The Rajdoot 350 generates 30.5 HP, which was extraordinary for its time.
Why Was the RD350 So Fast?
The lightweight frame and high-revving 2-stroke engine gave the bike an exceptional power-to-weight ratio, enabling rapid acceleration and high speeds.
Why Was the Rajdoot 350 Discontinued?
Its high cost, poor mileage, and stricter emission norms led to its discontinuation.
How Many RD350s Were Sold in India?
Approximately 7,000 units were sold, making it a rare and valuable collector’s item today.
Is Yamaha Making a 350 Today?
Yes, Yamaha produces modern 350cc motorcycles, but they are unrelated to the classic Rajdoot or RD350.
Legacy and Collector’s Value
The Rajdoot 350 still holds a cherished place in the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts. Its combination of speed, power, and design made it a trailblazer in its era. Today, the bike’s rarity and historical significance make it a coveted collector’s item.
Speculations About the Rajdoot 350 New Model
Enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the rumored Rajdoot 350 2025 model. If launched, it could feature:
- A modern, fuel-injected engine
- ABS and dual-disc brakes
- A retro design with modern upgrades
- Price: ₹2,00,000 to ₹2,50,000
Conclusion
The Rajdoot 350 is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a cultural icon that shaped India’s biking history. From its unmatched performance to its enduring legacy, the Rajdoot 350 remains a symbol of innovation and nostalgia.
Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or someone intrigued by its history, the Rajdoot 350 continues to captivate the imagination of generations. With speculations about its comeback, the legacy of this iconic motorcycle may soon find new life on modern roads.