It seems like you’re referring to the Rajdoot 350, a classic motorcycle that was popular in India during the 1980s and 1990s. However, there is no official “new” version of the Rajdoot 350 available in the market as of 2024.
About the Rajdoot 350:
- Original Model: The Rajdoot 350 was a two-stroke motorcycle manufactured by Escorts Group in collaboration with Yamaha (based on the Yamaha RD350).
- Engine: 350cc air-cooled two-stroke engine (known for its power and simplicity).
- Popularity: It was a favorite among enthusiasts due to its performance and rugged design.
Is There a New Rajdoot 350?
As of now, there is no official relaunch or modern version of the Rajdoot 350. However, there have been rumors and fan interest in a revival, possibly as a retro-style bike with a modern four-stroke engine (to comply with emission norms).
Alternatives to Rajdoot 350 (Modern Bikes with Similar Vibe):
If you’re looking for a bike with a classic or powerful feel, consider:
- Royal Enfield Classic 350 (Retro styling, thumping single-cylinder engine)
- Yezdi Roadster (Modern two-stroke-inspired design)
- Jawa Perak (Bobber-style, 334cc engine)
- Honda CB350 (H’ness & CB350 RS) (Retro-modern bikes)
The Rajdoot 350 was an iconic motorcycle in India during the 1980s and early 1990s, manufactured by Escorts Group in collaboration with Yamaha. It was one of the few 350cc two-stroke bikes available in the country at the time, offering a blend of power, simplicity, and durability that made it popular among riders who needed a robust machine for both city and rural use.
Design & Styling
The Rajdoot 350 had a classic, no-frills design with a straight-line fuel tank, round headlamp, and a long, flat seat that could accommodate two riders comfortably. Its styling was utilitarian, with minimal chrome accents, focusing more on function than aesthetics. The bike had a tall stance, making it suitable for rough Indian roads.
Engine & Performance
- Engine Type: Air-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder
- Displacement: 350cc (one of the largest two-stroke engines in India at the time)
- Power Output: Around 18-20 HP, which was decent for its era
- Transmission: 4-speed gearbox with a rotary shift pattern (1-down, 3-up)
- Exhaust: A distinctive thumping two-stroke sound, loved by enthusiasts
The Rajdoot 350 was not a speed demon but provided strong low-end torque, making it ideal for load-carrying and off-road use. Its two-stroke engine required petrol mixed with oil, a characteristic feature of such bikes.
Ride & Handling
- Suspension: Basic telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear
- Brakes: Drum brakes (front and rear), typical for bikes of that era
- Weight: Heavy but stable, good for highway cruising
- Mileage: Around 20-25 kmpl, which was average for a 350cc two-stroke
Popularity & Legacy
The Rajdoot 350 was especially popular in rural areas and among police/military forces due to its ruggedness. It was also used in motorsports, including rally racing, where its durability was tested. However, with the rise of four-stroke bikes (like the Royal Enfield Bullet) and stricter emission norms, the Rajdoot 350 was eventually discontinued in the early 1990s.
Why It’s Remembered Today?
- Last of the big two-stroke bikes in India
- Raw, mechanical feel that modern bikes lack
- Cult following among vintage bike collectors
Though no longer in production, the Rajdoot 350 remains a nostalgic symbol of India’s motorcycling history
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