One such name is Rajdoot—a brand that once dominated Indian roads with its rugged build, iconic sound, and unbeatable presence. Among its most memorable machines was the Rajdoot 350, based on the legendary Yamaha RD350. Now, decades later, the Rajdoot 350 is making a powerful comeback, blending heritage with modern engineering. The new avatar promises not just a ride, but an experience—a revival of raw performance, freedom, and legacy.
A Heritage Reimagined
The original Rajdoot 350 holds a cult status in India. Launched in the 1980s as a collaboration between Escorts and Yamaha, the bike was revolutionary in terms of performance. It was India’s first real performance motorcycle—fast, aggressive, and almost too ahead of its time. However, it eventually faded away due to rising fuel costs, changing market dynamics, and maintenance issues.
Fast forward to today, and we are witnessing a trend where iconic names from the past are being revived. Whether it’s the Jawa, Yezdi, or the Bullet’s continued legacy—motorcycle enthusiasts are hungry for a taste of the past, reimagined for the present. The new Rajdoot 350 taps right into this sentiment, aiming to capture the hearts of both old-school bikers and a new generation of riders.
Design: Classic Meets Contemporary
At first glance, the new Rajdoot 350 retains the visual DNA of the original RD350, especially in its dual-cylinder layout, squat stance, and minimalist design. But this isn’t just a copy-paste job. The 2025 Rajdoot 350 embraces modern elements such as full LED lighting, a digital-analog instrument cluster, ABS, and even smartphone connectivity.
The bike’s fuel tank sports a teardrop shape with retro striping and the bold “Rajdoot” branding that feels proudly nostalgic. Chrome touches on the exhaust and handlebar ends give it a vintage charm, while alloy wheels (or optional spoked rims) cater to performance and styling preferences alike.
Performance: Power with Precision
Let’s talk performance—because that’s what made the original RD350 so iconic. The new Rajdoot 350 doesn’t disappoint. It comes with a 349cc parallel-twin engine, liquid-cooled, and fuel-injected. Tuned for a balanced mix of torque and top-end power, the engine delivers around 38-40 bhp and 30 Nm of torque, making it a potent machine for both city rides and highway stretches.
It features a 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch, and dual-channel ABS, making it far more rider-friendly than its predecessor. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at the front and dual gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear, tuned to handle Indian roads with grace and control.
Soundtrack of a Legend
No Rajdoot—or RD350—would be complete without its distinct exhaust note. The new 350 doesn’t replicate the old two-stroke scream, but it brings its own character to the table. Thanks to a carefully engineered dual-exhaust system, the bike produces a deep, throaty rumble that pays homage to its roots without being artificially loud or obnoxious. It’s a sound that turns heads—whether you’re idling at a red light or blasting down an open road.
Riding Experience: Engaging Yet Comfortable
The new Rajdoot 350 is not just about speed—it’s about feel. The riding posture is slightly leaned forward, offering a sporty stance while remaining comfortable enough for long rides. The seat is well-cushioned and wide, offering comfort for both rider and pillion.
Thanks to modern chassis geometry, cornering feels confident, and the bike is surprisingly nimble for a twin-cylinder machine. With a curb weight of around 180-190 kg, it strikes a balance between stability and agility.
Pricing and Market Position
Expected to be priced between ₹2.5 to ₹2.8 lakh (ex-showroom), the Rajdoot 350 enters a competitive segment currently occupied by the Royal Enfield Meteor, Jawa 42, and Honda CB350. However, with its twin-cylinder setup and nostalgic branding, it positions itself as a unique offering—ideal for those who want a mix of history and performance.
Verdict: A Worthy Revival
The new Rajdoot 350 is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a story of revival, passion, and legacy. For older riders, it brings back cherished memories of the original beast. For younger enthusiasts, it offers a fresh, powerful alternative to the usual single-cylinder cruisers.
In an era where most bikes look similar and sound the same, the Rajdoot 350 dares to be different—by looking back and moving forward at the same time.