The Rajdoot 350 : The Rajdoot 350, also known as the Yamaha RD350 in its original form, holds a special place in Indian motorcycle history.
This powerful two-stroke machine, introduced in the early 1980s, was far ahead of its time and became India’s first true performance motorcycle.
Despite its relatively short production run, the Rajdoot 350 left an indelible mark on the country’s motorcycling culture and continues to be revered by enthusiasts to this day.
Origins and Specifications-
The story of the Rajdoot 350 begins with the Yamaha RD350, a high-performance motorcycle produced by Yamaha Motor Company in Japan.
In 1983, Escorts Group introduced a licensed version of the RD350B to the Indian market under the Rajdoot brand name. This decision was influenced by government regulations that prohibited the use of foreign brand names at the time.
The Rajdoot 350 was powered by an air-cooled, two-stroke, parallel-twin engine with a displacement of 347cc. In its Indian avatar, the motorcycle was offered in two variants:
High Torque (HT) version: Produced 30.5 bhp
Low Torque (LT) version: Produced 27 bhp
These power figures were lower than the original Japanese model, which boasted around 39 bhp. The detuning was done in an attempt to improve fuel efficiency for the Indian market.
Features and Performance-
Despite the reduced power output, the Rajdoot 350 was still a formidable machine for its time. Key features included:
Six-speed transmission
Twin carburetors
Autolube oil injection system
Dual exhaust pipes
Telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers
The motorcycle could accelerate from 0-100 km/h in approximately 7 seconds and reach a top speed of around 160 km/h. This level of performance was unprecedented in the Indian market and earned the Rajdoot 350 its reputation as a “Racing Death” machine.
Market Reception and Challenges-
The introduction of the Rajdoot 350 to the Indian market was met with mixed reactions. While performance enthusiasts were thrilled, several factors hindered its widespread adoption:
High Price: At launch in 1983, the Rajdoot 350 was priced at Rs 18,000, which increased to around Rs 30,000 by the end of its production run. This was significantly more expensive than other motorcycles available at the time.
Poor Fuel Efficiency: Despite efforts to improve fuel economy, the Rajdoot 350 still consumed more fuel than its competitors like the Yezdi Roadking, Jawa 350, and Royal Enfield Bullet.
Braking Concerns: Unlike the Japanese version, which featured a front disc brake, the Indian model was equipped with drum brakes to reduce costs. This compromised safety, especially given the motorcycle’s high performance capabilities.
Maintenance Costs: The two-stroke engine required frequent maintenance and spare parts were often expensive or difficult to source.
Legacy and Cult Status-
Although production of the Rajdoot 350 ceased in 1990, with only about 7,000 units manufactured, the motorcycle’s legend continued to grow. Several factors contributed to its enduring popularity:
Performance: It remained one of the fastest Indian-made motorcycles for many years after its discontinuation.
Exclusivity: The limited production run made it a rare and sought-after machine.
Distinctive Sound: The two-stroke engine and twin exhausts produced a unique and memorable exhaust note.
Modding Potential: Enthusiasts found the Rajdoot 350 to be an excellent platform for modifications and performance enhancements.
Today, well-maintained or restored Rajdoot 350s can command prices upwards of Rs 2 lakh in the used market, a testament to their enduring appeal.
Impact on Indian Motorcycling-
The Rajdoot 350 played a crucial role in shaping the performance motorcycle segment in India:
It introduced Indian riders to levels of performance previously unseen in the domestic market.
The motorcycle helped establish Yamaha’s reputation as a performance-oriented brand in India.
It paved the way for future high-performance motorcycles in the country.
The Rajdoot 350 inspired a generation of motorcycle enthusiasts and continues to influence custom bike builders.
Conclusion-
The Rajdoot 350 represents a significant chapter in Indian motorcycling history. While it may not have achieved widespread commercial success during its production run, its impact on the country’s motorcycle culture is undeniable.
The blend of high performance, distinctive design, and historical significance has elevated the Rajdoot 350 to legendary status.
As India’s motorcycle market continues to evolve, with an increasing focus on performance and technology, the Rajdoot 350 stands as a reminder of the country’s first foray into the world of high-performance motorcycles.
Its legacy lives on through dedicated owners, restoration projects, and the enduring respect it commands among motorcycle enthusiasts across the nation.