In a move that has sent ripples through the Indian motorcycle industry, the legendary Rajdoot brand has made a stunning comeback with the launch of the New Rajdoot 350.
Unveiled on September 5, 2024, at a grand event in New Delhi, this modern interpretation of the classic Rajdoot has captured the imagination of both nostalgic enthusiasts and young riders alike.
A Blast from the Past, Reimagined
The New Rajdoot 350 pays homage to its predecessor, the iconic Rajdoot GTS 175, affectionately known as the “Bobby” due to its appearance in the 1973 Bollywood classic of the same name.
However, this is no mere replica. The new model seamlessly blends retro aesthetics with modern engineering, creating a motorcycle that’s as much a head-turner as it is a capable performer.
Design: Nostalgia Meets Contemporary Flair
At first glance, the New Rajdoot 350 is unmistakably a descendant of the original. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank, round headlamp, and long, flat seat all hark back to the classic design. However, closer inspection reveals a host of modern touches:
- LED Lighting: The round headlamp houses a powerful LED setup, while LED turn indicators and taillights complete the lighting package.
- Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster: A circular speedometer with a digital inset displays all essential information, maintaining the retro look while offering modern functionality.
- Alloy Wheels: 18-inch alloy wheels replace the wire-spoked ones of the original, offering improved stability and tubeless tire compatibility.
- Dual-Tone Paint Scheme: Available in five color options, each featuring a striking dual-tone finish that accentuates the bike’s classic lines.
Heart of the Matter: The Powerplant
Under the retro skin lies a thoroughly modern engine. The New Rajdoot 350 is powered by a 348cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces a respectable 20.2 bhp at 5,250 rpm and 28 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.
This unit is mated to a 5-speed gearbox, offering a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Key engine features include:
- Fuel Injection: For precise fueling and improved emissions compliance
- Oil Cooler: To maintain optimal operating temperatures
- Balancer Shaft: Reducing vibrations for a smoother ride
Chassis and Suspension: Modern Underpinnings
The New Rajdoot 350 is built around a double-cradle frame, offering a perfect blend of rigidity and flex for confident handling.
The suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, both tuned to offer a comfortable ride without compromising on handling dynamics.
Braking duties are handled by a 300mm disc with a two-piston caliper at the front and a 240mm disc at the rear. Dual-channel ABS comes as standard, ensuring safe braking under all conditions.
Technology and Features: Old School Charm, New Age Convenience
While maintaining its retro aesthetic, the New Rajdoot 350 doesn’t skimp on modern features:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Pair your smartphone for turn-by-turn navigation and call alerts.
- USB Charging Port: Conveniently located under the seat.
- Hazard Lights: For added safety in low visibility conditions.
- Side Stand Engine Cut-off: Preventing accidental starts when the side stand is down.
Performance and Riding Experience
Early reviews of the New Rajdoot 350 have been overwhelmingly positive.
Testers praise the bike’s comfortable ergonomics, making it ideal for both city commutes and weekend getaways. The engine, while not a powerhouse, offers ample grunt for urban riding and cruising on highways.
The bike’s relatively light weight of 175 kg (kerb) contributes to its nimble handling, making it easy to maneuver through traffic.
However, it’s on the open road where the New Rajdoot 350 truly shines, offering a relaxed cruising experience that’s reminiscent of its predecessor.
Market Positioning and Competition
Priced at Rs. 1,85,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the New Rajdoot 350 enters a competitive segment dominated by players like Royal Enfield, Jawa, and Yezdi.
However, its unique blend of nostalgia and modern engineering sets it apart from its rivals.
The primary competitors include:
- Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Jawa 42
- Yezdi Roadster
- Honda H’ness CB350
What sets the Rajdoot apart is its strong brand recall among older generations and its fresh appeal to younger riders looking for a retro-styled machine with modern reliability.
Production and Availability
The New Rajdoot 350 will be manufactured at a state-of-the-art facility in Gurugram, Haryana. The company has announced an initial production run of 5,000 units per month, with plans to scale up based on demand.
Bookings for the motorcycle opened on September 10, 2024, with deliveries expected to commence from October 1, 2024.
The company has partnered with leading financial institutions to offer attractive financing options, making the bike accessible to a wider audience.
The Road Ahead: Implications for the Indian Motorcycle Market
The revival of the Rajdoot brand and the launch of the 350 model marks a significant moment in the Indian motorcycle industry.
It demonstrates the growing demand for retro-styled motorcycles that offer modern reliability and features.
Industry analysts predict that this launch could spark a new trend of reviving defunct Indian motorcycle brands, potentially leading to a more diverse and exciting market for consumers.
Moreover, the New Rajdoot 350’s focus on blending retro design with modern technology could push other manufacturers to innovate in this space, benefiting consumers with more choices and better products.
New Rajdoot 350 : A New Chapter in an Iconic Legacy
The New Rajdoot 350 is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a bridge between India’s rich automotive heritage and its exciting future.
By successfully modernizing a beloved classic, Rajdoot has not only honored its legacy but also positioned itself as a serious contender in the competitive mid-size motorcycle segment.
As the first units hit the roads, all eyes will be on Rajdoot to see if they can recapture the magic that made the original such an integral part of India’s motorcycling culture.
If initial reactions are anything to go by, the New Rajdoot 350 seems poised to create its own legacy, one that honors the past while embracing the future of two-wheeled mobility in India.