Yamaha Rajdoot 350 New Model Blends Vintage Dhansu Charm With Today’s Technology and Refined Riding Comfort

Yamaha Rajdoot 350 – The Beast of the 80s Returns in Talks

Yamaha has always been a trusted name when it comes to bikes in India. And when we talk about legends, the Yamaha Rajdoot 350 is one motorcycle that still brings a smile to the face of bike lovers. Launched in the 1980s, the Rajdoot 350 was India’s first performance bike and set the standard for what a powerful machine should feel like. Though it is no longer in production, this bike still has a cult following.

In this article, we will take you through everything you need to know about this iconic motorcycle — from design to performance, and why it still holds a special place in the hearts of many.

Overview Table

Design & Style

At a time when Indian roads were dominated by small, plain commuter bikes, the Yamaha Rajdoot 350 came in with a bold look. The bike had a muscular tank, classic round headlamp, and chrome mudguards that gave it a solid road presence. It looked like a true racer with twin exhaust pipes and a long seat which was comfortable for both rider and pillion.

Its design was simple but gave off a powerful vibe. The analog dials and clean body lines added to the retro charm that many still admire today.

Engine & Performance

The real star of the show was the 347cc twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine. It produced 30.5 bhp, which was insane for those days. The bike had excellent acceleration and could easily cross 100 km/h within seconds. For young bikers in the 80s and 90s, this was the closest thing to a racing bike.

There were two variants — the High Torque (HT) and Low Torque (LT). The HT was the more powerful and preferred version. The engine had a raw feel to it and gave a thrilling experience every time you twisted the throttle.

Ride & Handling

Despite being a powerful machine, the Rajdoot 350 offered decent comfort on roads. It had telescopic front forks and twin shock absorbers at the back, which made the ride quite smooth for that time. However, due to its weight and power, it needed an experienced hand to control it properly.

The brakes were drum types, and though they did the job, at high speeds, you really had to be careful. Still, the handling was enjoyable, especially on highways where the bike truly felt at home.

Features & Tech

Since it was a bike from the 80s, it did not have modern features like digital consoles, ABS, or LED lights. But for that era, it was a tech-packed machine. It had twin exhausts, tachometer, and an oil indicator — all of which were rare at that time.

It also had a 6-speed gearbox, which is still not common in many entry-level bikes today. So even though it seems basic now, back then it was ahead of its time.

Mileage & Fuel Efficiency

If you are someone who only looks at mileage, the RD 350 was not for you. It returned around 20-25 km/l in real-world riding, and with petrol being cheaper in the 80s, it didn’t matter as much.

The two-stroke engine also needed two-stroke oil, which added to the running cost. But for those who loved speed and performance, mileage was never the priority.

Price & Variants

When launched, the Yamaha Rajdoot 350 was priced around ₹18,000–₹20,000, which was quite high in those days. But considering the performance it delivered, many felt it was worth every rupee.

As mentioned earlier, there were two main variants — High Torque and Low Torque. The HT version became more famous due to its better performance. Today, you might find a well-maintained RD 350 being sold for over ₹1.5 lakh among collectors.

FAQs

Q1. Is the Yamaha Rajdoot 350 still available in India?
No, the bike has been discontinued and is no longer in production.

Q2. Can I still buy the RD 350 today?
Yes, but only in the second-hand market or through collectors.

Q3. Why was the Rajdoot 350 discontinued?
It was discontinued mainly due to low fuel efficiency, high price, and stricter pollution norms.

Q4. What made the RD 350 so special?
Its power, twin-cylinder engine, and raw performance made it a unique and unforgettable machine.

Final Verdict

The Yamaha Rajdoot 350 was not just a motorcycle — it was a legend. It gave Indian riders their first taste of real power and performance. Even though it wasn’t fuel-efficient or loaded with modern features, it gave a ride that many still dream about. For today’s generation, it may just be an old bike, but for those who rode it — it was freedom, thrill, and love on two wheels.

If you ever get a chance to ride one or own a well-maintained RD 350, don’t miss it. Some machines are not just made of metal — they carry memories, emotions, and stories. The Yamaha Rajdoot 350 is definitely one of them.