In a move that has thrilled vintage bike lovers and automobile enthusiasts across India, the iconic Rajdoot 350 is all set to make a grand return. Once a dream machine for many in the 80s, the Rajdoot 350 is coming back with a refreshed look and modern engineering, bringing with it a wave of nostalgia wrapped in performance and style. The official launch date for the Rajdoot 350 has been revealed as August 15, 2025, a day that coincides with India's Independence Day — an apt moment for the rebirth of a true Indian legend.
A Look Back: The Glory of the Original Rajdoot 350
Originally launched in 1983 by the Escorts Group, the Rajdoot 350 was essentially a rebadged Yamaha RD350, assembled under license in India. At the time, it was a powerhouse on two wheels — a 347cc two-stroke, parallel-twin beast that introduced Indian riders to serious performance.
However, despite its capability and technological edge, the Rajdoot 350 faced challenges in the Indian market. Its high fuel consumption and maintenance needs didn’t sit well with cost-conscious Indian consumers. After a relatively short run, production was discontinued in 1990, but its legacy lived on in the hearts of bike lovers.
The Rebirth: What We Know About the New Rajdoot 350
Fast forward to 2025, and the Rajdoot 350 is being revived with a modern twist. This time, it aims to strike a balance between performance, efficiency, and retro appeal. The new model is being developed with Indian roads and riders in mind, and it will come equipped with features that today’s bike lovers expect.
Engine & Performance: The new Rajdoot 350 will feature a 348.89cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, producing around 25.5 bhp of power and 27 Nm of torque. It will be paired with a 5-speed gearbox and is expected to offer a mileage of 40-45 kmpl, making it far more fuel-efficient than its predecessor.
This combination of power and mileage is expected to attract a wide audience — from nostalgic older riders who once owned the original, to younger bikers looking for a stylish yet practical ride.
Retro Design Meets Modern Engineering
Design-wise, the new Rajdoot 350 will retain the retro charm that made the original so memorable — round headlamp, muscular fuel tank, and a minimalist silhouette — while integrating modern-day features such as:
LED headlamps and tail-lamps
Digital-analog instrument cluster
USB charging port
Bluetooth connectivity
Dual-channel ABS
Disc brakes on both wheels
Telescopic front forks and dual shock absorbers at the rear
This unique blend of old-school design with today’s technology is expected to make the Rajdoot 350 a head-turner on Indian roads.
Launch Date & Booking Timeline
According to official sources, the Rajdoot 350 will launch on August 15, 2025. The company has chosen this date not just for marketing impact, but also as a symbolic moment — tying the return of a national icon to the celebration of national freedom.
Here’s a timeline of what to expect:
Pre-bookings start: July 20, 2025
Launch date: August 15, 2025
First deliveries: Early September 2025 in metro cities
Pan-India availability: By October 2025
The booking amount is expected to be ₹10,000, fully refundable. Early birds may also get access to limited edition merchandise and special finance offers.
Price Expectation
While the official price has not been announced, market experts estimate that the new Rajdoot 350 will be priced competitively in the ₹1.70 lakh to ₹2.50 lakh (ex-showroom) range. This puts it right in the battlefield with the likes of Royal Enfield Classic 350, Jawa 42, and Honda H'ness CB350.
This pricing strategy is expected to make the Rajdoot 350 an attractive proposition — especially for those who are looking for a performance commuter with a dash of nostalgia.
Competition in the 350cc Segment
The 350cc segment is currently dominated by Royal Enfield, but the reintroduction of the Rajdoot 350 is set to shake things up. With its heritage, power-packed specs, and modern upgrades, the Rajdoot 350 may carve a niche of its own.
Here’s how it compares to its competitors:
Marketing Strategy: Playing the Nostalgia Card
The marketing campaign for the new Rajdoot 350 is expected to heavily rely on emotional appeal. The bike isn’t just being launched — it’s being reintroduced as a legacy, aimed at those who grew up hearing about it or riding it.
Expect the ads and promos to feature:
Vintage-style storytelling
Testimonials from original Rajdoot riders
Collaboration with influencers and retro-themed auto shows
Pop-culture references, possibly even Bollywood tie-ups
Why This Launch Matters
The revival of the Rajdoot 350 is not just a product launch it's a cultural comeback. In a market saturated with modern bikes, bringing back a legend like the Rajdoot gives consumers an emotional reason to invest in it.
It also signals the beginning of a trend where Indian manufacturers may dig into their p
ast to bring back historic models that have left a mark.
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