Yamaha Rajdoot 350: In a move that has surprised motorcycle enthusiasts across India, Yamaha Motor India has announced the revival of the legendary Rajdoot brand with an all-new Rajdoot 350 for 2025. This strategic decision marks Yamaha’s attempt to capitalize on the growing retro-motorcycle segment while paying homage to one of India’s most beloved two-wheelers from the past.
A Legacy Reborn
The original Rajdoot, manufactured by Escorts Group under license from Yamaha in the 1960s through the 1990s, was a household name in India, known for its reliability and distinctive design. The motorcycle, particularly the iconic Rajdoot RD350, developed a cult following that continues to this day among vintage motorcycle collectors.
“The Rajdoot name carries tremendous emotional value for an entire generation of Indian motorcyclists,” explained Yamaha Motor India’s Chairman during the unveiling ceremony in Delhi. “With this revival, we’re not just launching a new motorcycle—we’re reconnecting with our heritage in the Indian market while introducing this legendary brand to younger riders.”
The reintroduction comes after Yamaha successfully acquired the rights to the Rajdoot name from Escorts Group, following months of negotiations. This acquisition allows Yamaha to leverage the nostalgic appeal of the brand while infusing it with modern technology and design sensibilities.
Design Philosophy: Modern Vintage
The 2025 Rajdoot 350 skillfully balances retro aesthetics with contemporary elements, creating what Yamaha calls a “modern vintage” appearance. The motorcycle features a round LED headlamp, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, spoke wheels, and a single-piece seat—all reminiscent of the original model but executed with current manufacturing standards.
Available in four nostalgic color schemes—Havelock Blue, Sunrise Copper, Heritage Green, and Mystic Silver—each variant includes hand-painted pinstripes and a special anniversary emblem commemorating the original Rajdoot’s legacy.
The attention to detail extends to components like the brushed aluminum finish on the engine cases, the leather-wrapped handlebar grips, and the classically styled analog-digital instrument cluster that combines vintage appeal with modern functionality.
Performance Specifications
Under its retro exterior, the new Rajdoot 350 houses thoroughly modern mechanicals. Powered by a 348cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection, the motorcycle produces 30 horsepower at 7,500 RPM and 32 Nm of torque at 5,000 RPM.
While these figures might seem modest by modern standards, Yamaha engineers have tuned the powerplant for strong mid-range performance and linear power delivery rather than outright performance—characteristics that align with the original Rajdoot’s reputation as a reliable everyday companion rather than a race machine.
The engine is paired with a five-speed transmission and features a slip-and-assist clutch for lighter lever action and smoother downshifts. Modern touches include dual-channel ABS, transistorized ignition, and an ECU with two riding modes—Heritage and Sport—allowing riders to select between a relaxed throttle response for city riding or a more aggressive mapping for open roads.
Chassis and Handling Dynamics
The 2025 Rajdoot 350 is built around a double-cradle steel frame that provides the right balance between stability and agility. Suspension duties are handled by conventional telescopic forks with 130mm of travel up front and twin shock absorbers with 5-step preload adjustment at the rear.
Braking performance comes from a 300mm front disc with a two-piston caliper and a 240mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper, both managed by a Bosch dual-channel ABS system. The 18-inch wire-spoke wheels are shod with tubeless tires in a 100/90 front and 130/70 rear configuration, providing adequate grip while maintaining the classic motorcycle profile.
With a kerb weight of 172 kg and a seat height of 810mm, the Rajdoot 350 is accessible to riders of various heights and experience levels. The ergonomics have been designed to provide an upright riding position, prioritizing comfort for both urban commutes and weekend getaways.
Technology Integration
Despite its classic appearance, the Rajdoot 350 incorporates several technological features that cater to modern riders. The analog-digital instrument cluster provides essential information including speed, RPM, gear position, fuel level, and trip data.
Bluetooth connectivity enables turn-by-turn navigation, call and message alerts, and ride statistics through Yamaha’s Y-Connect mobile application. LED lighting is standard throughout, including the distinctive round headlamp that maintains a vintage look while providing superior illumination.
Other modern amenities include USB charging ports, engine immobilizer, and hazard lights—features that weren’t even conceived when the original Rajdoot ruled Indian roads but are now essential for contemporary motorcyclists.
Market Positioning and Target Audience
Yamaha has positioned the Rajdoot 350 as a premium offering in the mid-capacity retro motorcycle segment, where it will compete with established models like the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Jawa 42, and Honda CB350.
With prices starting at ₹2.15 lakh (ex-showroom), the Rajdoot 350 commands a slight premium over some competitors, but Yamaha justifies this positioning through the motorcycle’s heritage value, build quality, and features.
The primary target audience spans two distinct demographics: older riders seeking to reconnect with the nostalgia of their youth, and younger enthusiasts attracted to the growing retro motorcycle culture. Yamaha’s market research indicates strong potential in both segments, particularly in metropolitan areas and tier-2 cities where motorcycle enthusiasm transcends utilitarian transportation needs.
Production and Availability
The Rajdoot 350 will be manufactured at Yamaha’s facility in Surajpur, Uttar Pradesh, with 70% localization at launch, expected to increase to 85% within two years. The company has announced an initial production capacity of 8,000 units per month, with the ability to scale based on market demand.
Dealership deliveries are scheduled to commence in September 2025, though pre-bookings will open next month with a token amount of ₹10,000. Yamaha has also revealed plans for a comprehensive ownership experience, including dedicated service protocols, exclusive accessories, and owners’ community events to foster brand loyalty.
Conclusion: Nostalgia Meets Innovation
The revival of the Rajdoot represents more than just another entry in India’s competitive motorcycle market—it symbolizes the maturing of Indian motorcycling culture where heritage and history now command genuine value.
“With the Rajdoot 350, we’re not just selling a motorcycle; we’re offering a connection to India’s motorcycling heritage reimagined for today’s rider,” summarized Yamaha’s Marketing Director. “This launch reinforces our commitment to the Indian market with products that respect the past while embracing the future.”
As classic brands continue to find new relevance in contemporary markets, Yamaha’s revival of the Rajdoot name signals an industry-wide recognition that in motorcycling, emotional connections often prove as powerful as technical specifications. For a generation that grew up with the original Rajdoot as part of their cultural landscape, the modern interpretation represents a chance to relive cherished memories—while for younger riders, it offers an authentic entry point into India’s rich motorcycling heritage.