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
English