Few bikes ignite nostalgia like the Yamaha Rajdoot 350, a cruiser that ruled Indian roads in the 1980s and remains a legend in 2025. Today—Tuesday, March 25, 2025—talk of its legacy and a rumored revival is stirring the motorcycle world. Born from a collaboration between Yamaha and India’s Escorts Group, this 347cc two-stroke icon redefined power and style, blending raw performance with a bold, timeless design. Here’s your complete guide to the Yamaha Rajdoot 350—its history, features, cultural impact, and why it still captivates riders in 2025.
Yamaha Rajdoot 350: A Legacy Reborn in 2025
Launched in 1983 as the Rajdoot 350, this bike was India’s first true performance cruiser, a licensed take on Yamaha’s RD350B. Its rugged frame, twin exhausts, and throaty roar turned heads, while its power set it apart in an era of practical two-wheelers. Fast-forward to 2025—rumors swirl of a modern reboot, blending retro charm with today’s tech. Picture a round LED headlamp, sleek tank curves, and new colors like Midnight Teal or Vintage Chrome. It’s not just a bike; it’s a bridge between past glory and future rides, keeping its cruiser soul alive.
Rajdoot 350 Price Then and Now: A Collector’s Dream
Back in 1983, the Rajdoot 350 debuted at ₹18,000—pricey for its time—rising to ₹30,000 by 1990 when production stopped. In 2025, restored originals fetch ₹2.5 lakh to ₹8 lakh in India’s vintage market, fueled by collectors and enthusiasts like MS Dhoni, who owns a pristine model. A rumored 2025 relaunch? Speculation pegs it at ₹2.25 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh (ex-showroom), blending affordability with premium appeal. On-road costs could hit ₹2.6 lakh to ₹2.8 lakh—still a steal for its iconic status.
Rajdoot 350 Engine and Performance: Power That Echoes
The original Rajdoot 350 packed a 347cc two-stroke, air-cooled parallel-twin engine—30.5 bhp in High Torque (HT) form, detuned to 27 bhp in Low Torque (LT) for efficiency. With a 6-speed gearbox, it hit 150 kmph and sprinted 0-60 kmph in under 4 seconds—a beast in its day. Mileage? A thirsty 20-25 kmpl, typical of two-strokes needing a petrol-oil mix. A 2025 version might swap to a 350cc four-stroke, BS6-compliant engine—say, 25 bhp and 28 Nm—pushing 40-45 kmpl with fuel injection, balancing power and thrift at ₹100+/liter petrol.
Yamaha Rajdoot 350 Features: Classic Meets Modern
The ‘80s Rajdoot 350 was raw—twin exhausts for sound and style, a mechanical tachometer, and a 7-inch drum brake swapped from the RD350B’s disc for cost. In 2025, expect upgrades: LED lighting, a digital-analog cluster with Bluetooth, and single-channel ABS on a 300 mm front disc. Telescopic forks and twin rear shocks—now tuned softer—keep that cruiser comfort, while tubeless tires and a 16-liter tank nod to practicality. It’s retro flair with tech that suits today’s roads.
How to Get a Yamaha Rajdoot 350 in 2025
Originals? Hunt vintage rallies or collector networks—prices soar for mint HT models. A relaunch? Bookings could start mid-2025 at Yamaha dealerships or online—expect a ₹10,000 token and June deliveries. Test rides might drop by May—check your local showroom to hear that rumble. With Yamaha’s 2,000+ service centers, support’s solid either way.
Rajdoot 350 vs. Rivals: Then and Now
In the ‘80s, it battled the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 (19 bhp, 35 kmpl) and Yezdi Roadking 250—faster but less efficient at 20 kmpl. In 2025, a reborn Rajdoot 350 faces the RE Classic 350 (₹1.93 lakh, 41 kmpl) and Honda CB350 (₹1.99 lakh, 20 kmpl). Its edge? Nostalgia, a lower price point, and that cruiser swagger—sales could hit 5,000 units monthly if launched.
Why the Yamaha Rajdoot 350 Still Rules in 2025
India’s 20 million yearly two-wheeler sales love a story—and the Rajdoot 350’s is epic. Its ‘80s Bollywood cameos—like *Hero* (1983)—made it a rebel’s ride, a symbol of freedom for a generation. Today, its 174 mm clearance tackles rough roads, while a lighter 150 kg frame (down from 155 kg) suits urban zips. Fuel at ₹100+/liter? A four-stroke reboot could drop costs to ₹2-₹3 per km. It’s not just a bike—it’s a cultural icon reborn.
Challenges and Tips for Riders
Originals need rare parts—mechanics versed in two-strokes are scarce. A 2025 model? Watch for stock shortages—book early. Base trims might skip ABS—opt for mid-spec for safety and tech. Maintenance? ₹5,000-₹8,000 yearly—low for its class. Rural riders: stick to cities for service ease.
Yamaha Rajdoot 350 2025 Availability
The ‘80s run ended in 1990—7,000 units total. A 2025 relaunch, if real, drops mid-year—variants might span Standard to Premium. Warranty? Likely 2 years/24,000 km, extendable to 5. Production’s gearing up—dealers brace for a nostalgia rush.
Verdict: Yamaha Rajdoot 350—A Timeless Cruiser for 2025
The Yamaha Rajdoot 350 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a legend that redefined power and style. At ₹2.25 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh in a potential 2025 avatar, it blends 45 kmpl efficiency, modern tech, and that unforgettable cruiser soul. It’s not the fastest today, but for riders craving heritage with a fresh twist, it’s unmatched. In India’s bike-crazy 2025, the Rajdoot 350’s roar—past or present—still echoes loud. Ready to ride history? This cruiser’s calling.
