The Yamaha Rajdoot 350 is a legend in the Indian biking arena. Escorts Group, in association with Yamaha Japan, introduced the Rajdoot 350 in 1983 as India’s first high-performance twin-cylinder motorcycle. Even now, it enjoys cult status among bike fans and collectors who appreciate its grunt, retro appeal and two-stroke magic.
So, let’s revisit what made the Yamaha Rajdoot 350 an iconic machine by its own right.
Classic Design and Retro Appeal
Design and styling of the Yamaha Rajdoot 350 were classic and old school with round headlamp, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, chrome covered fenders and twin-pod analog instrument console to name a few. It looked mean with its muscular body design and wide seat dominating the road. The bike was distinctive in a time when the bulk of Indian motorcycles were plain and personality-less.
Today, the bike has found its way into the good graces of restoration artists, with the likes of custom builders transforming it into café racers and scramblers but still maintaining its vintage aura intact.
Powerful 2-Stroke Engine
Powering the Rajdoot 350 was a 347cc, air-cooled, twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine, taken from the Yamaha RD350B. It produced around 30. 5 bhp (HT) and 27 bhp (LT). It was mated to a 6-speed gear-box and was capable of reaching a top speed of 140+ km/hr that was madness considering the market trend in bike segment).
The acceleration and power were something special, and the fact that little bike had so much power made it the bike of choice for young racers in the 80’s and 90’s.
Handling and Ride Quality
All said, and despite its heavy weight and strong power, the Rajdoot 350 was a good handler, due largely to its rigid double-cradle frame and telescopic front forks. At the back, there were pair of twin shock absorbers resulted in a comfortable ride even on harsh Indian roads.
The bike was equipped with drum brakes front and rear, which were respectable for the time, if not for contemporary braking performance. Nevertheless, for many people the magic of an RD350 ride is yet to be eclipsed.
Why It Still Matters
It was discontinued in 1990 due to worse mileage sometime around 20-25 kms/per liter and also due to strict emission(Most bikes which were two stroke were discontinued due to this like RX 100,Yezdi,Rajdoot).
The Rajdoot 350 still remains an icon for performance biking in India. It blazed the trail for modern performance motorcycles and is still idolized at bike shows, vintage rallies, and in the annals of biker historical society.
Final Thoughts
Yamaha Rajdoot 350 isn’t just a motorcycle but a legend that inspired a generation. The legendary motorcycle was of the Indian bikers.