In a move that has sent waves of excitement through the Indian motorcycle community, Escorts Group has announced the revival of the iconic Rajdoot 350.
This legendary bike, which once ruled Indian roads and captured the hearts of riders across the nation, is set to make a grand comeback after nearly three decades of absence.
The Rajdoot 350, first introduced in the 1960s, quickly became a symbol of rugged reliability and versatility in India.
Its distinctive design, featuring a robust frame and the unmistakable “Bobby” tank (named after the 1973 Bollywood film that popularized it), made it a favorite among riders from all walks of life.
Now, in an era dominated by high-tech motorcycles, Escorts Group is betting on nostalgia and timeless appeal to carve out a niche for the reborn Rajdoot.
Vikram Sharma, CEO of Escorts Motorcycle Division, shared his enthusiasm at the press conference held in New Delhi last week.
“The Rajdoot 350 isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a piece of Indian automotive history. We’re thrilled to bring back this icon, reimagined for the modern era while staying true to its roots,” Sharma stated, his eyes gleaming with pride.
The new Rajdoot 350 is a fascinating blend of retro aesthetics and modern engineering. While the overall silhouette remains faithful to the original, paying homage to its classic lines and proportions, the bike has been thoroughly modernized under the skin.
The heart of the new Rajdoot is a 350cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that promises to deliver a perfect balance of power and fuel efficiency.
With an estimated output of 20 bhp and 28 Nm of torque, the new Rajdoot aims to offer a riding experience that’s both engaging and practical for everyday use.
One of the most striking features of the new Rajdoot is its attention to detail in preserving the bike’s iconic elements.
The teardrop-shaped fuel tank, affectionately known as the “Bobby” tank, has been retained but subtly reshaped to meet modern safety standards.
The long, comfortable seat, another Rajdoot hallmark, has been ergonomically redesigned to provide better support for long rides.
Chrome accents on the fenders, exhaust, and handlebar evoke the bike’s vintage charm while adding a touch of premium appeal.
However, it’s not all about nostalgia. Escorts Group has incorporated several modern features to ensure the new Rajdoot meets the expectations of today’s riders.
The bike comes equipped with disc brakes on both wheels, with ABS as standard – a significant upgrade from the drum brakes of its predecessor.
Rajdoot 350
The instrument cluster, while retaining an analog speedometer for that classic touch, now includes a digital display for essential information like fuel level, odometer, and trip meter.
The suspension setup has also been modernized, with telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, promising a comfortable ride on India’s diverse road conditions.
LED lighting all around, including a distinctive halo daytime running light, adds a contemporary touch to the classic design while improving visibility and safety.
Escorts Group has positioned the new Rajdoot 350 as a premium offering in the mid-capacity segment.
With an expected ex-showroom price ranging between ₹1.75 lakh to ₹2 lakh, it’s clear that the company is targeting both nostalgic older riders and young enthusiasts looking for a unique riding experience.
The pricing strategy has sparked debates among industry analysts. Rahul Mishra, a veteran automotive journalist, shared his thoughts: “The pricing is ambitious, no doubt.
But we must remember that the Rajdoot 350 isn’t just another 350cc motorcycle. It carries with it a legacy, an emotional connection that many Indians have.
Escorts is banking on this emotional quotient, along with the bike’s modern features, to justify the premium pricing.”
The announcement of the Rajdoot’s revival has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm from motorcycle enthusiasts across the country.
Social media platforms have been abuzz with discussions, with many sharing fond memories of the original Rajdoot and expressing excitement about the new version.
Amit Desai, president of the Vintage Motorcycle Club of India, couldn’t contain his excitement.
“The Rajdoot was more than just a mode of transport; it was a companion, a trusted friend for many. Its return is like welcoming back an old friend who’s been away for too long.
I can’t wait to see how Escorts has reimagined this legend for our times,” Desai exclaimed, his voice filled with nostalgia and anticipation.
However, the road ahead for the new Rajdoot 350 is not without challenges. The Indian motorcycle market has evolved significantly since the original Rajdoot’s heyday.
The mid-capacity segment is now fiercely competitive, with established players like Royal Enfield, Jawa, and Honda offering compelling products.
The Rajdoot will need to carve out its niche, balancing its nostalgic appeal with modern performance and features to attract buyers.
Escorts Group seems well aware of these challenges. The company has announced plans for a comprehensive dealership network, focusing not just on sales but also on creating an immersive experience for potential buyers.
Flagship stores in major cities will feature heritage corners, showcasing the Rajdoot’s rich history and its impact on Indian popular culture.
The company is also investing heavily in its service network, recognizing that after-sales support will be crucial in building trust with customers.
A dedicated app for Rajdoot owners will provide easy access to service scheduling, ride planning, and a community platform for enthusiasts to connect and share their experiences.
Production of the new Rajdoot 350 is set to begin at Escorts’ state-of-the-art facility in Faridabad, Haryana.
The company has announced an initial production run of 5,000 units per month, with plans to scale up based on demand.
Bookings are scheduled to open next month, with deliveries expected to commence in the following quarter.
As the launch date approaches, anticipation continues to build. The return of the Rajdoot 350 is more than just a new product launch; it’s a celebration of India’s rich motorcycling heritage.
It represents a bridge between generations of riders, connecting those who fondly remember the original with a new generation eager to experience a piece of motorcycling history.
Whether the new Rajdoot 350 will live up to its legendary predecessor remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: its return has reignited a passion for classic motorcycling that transcends generations.
As the distinctive thump of the Rajdoot’s engine prepares to echo once again on Indian roads, it carries with it the hopes, memories, and dreams of countless riders, old and new.
The stage is set, the engine is primed, and the legend of the Rajdoot is ready to roar back to life, promising to create a new chapter in India’s rich motorcycling tapestry.