Rajdoot Bikes History, Specs & Legacy | Classic Indian Motorcycles 2025

Rajdoot Bikes: A Legendary Chapter in Indian Motorcycle History

When we talk about classic Indian motorcycles, Rajdoot bikes hold a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts and everyday riders alike. Born out of collaboration between the Indian company Escorts Group and international brands, Rajdoot motorcycles combined rugged design with reliable performance tailored for India's diverse roads. Despite their discontinuation, Rajdoot bikes continue to command a nostalgic reverence in 2025.

The Origins and Evolution of Rajdoot Bikes

Rajdoot’s journey began in the early 1960s with the launch of the Rajdoot Excel-T, a 173cc two-stroke motorcycle modeled after Poland's SHL M11, itself derived from a German DKW design post-World War II. Manufactured by Escorts Group starting in 1962, the Rajdoot Excel-T featured a robust engine and simple mechanics, making it popular for decades among Indian riders.

In 1983, Escorts took a bold step by partnering with Yamaha to launch the Rajdoot 350, also known as the RD. This model was a licensed copy of the Yamaha RD350B, adapted for Indian conditions. Sporting a 347cc, air-cooled, two-stroke parallel twin engine generating around 27-30 BHP, it was lauded for its performance on both city streets and uneven rural roads. Although powerful and innovative, the Rajdoot 350 struggled commercially against fuel-efficient competitors and due to high maintenance costs, leading to production ceasing by the early 1990s.

Key Specifications of Rajdoot 350

Feature	Details
Engine	347 cc, air-cooled, two-stroke twin
Power Output	Approx. 27-30 BHP @ 6000-6750 rpm
Torque	Around 30.4 Nm @ 5500 rpm
Transmission	5-6 speed manual gearbox
Fuel Capacity	16 liters
Front Brake	Drum brake
Rear Brake	Drum brake
Suspension (Front/Rear)	Telescopic oil damped forks / Swing arm with coil spring
Kerb Weight	Around 155 kg

Why Rajdoot Bikes Matter Today

Even decades after its last production, the Rajdoot brand symbolizes the evolution of motorcycling in India—from the days of simple mopeds to more sophisticated machines. Its unique blend of European technology and Indian ruggedness made it suitable for varied terrains and purposes, including government agricultural officers riding them in remote regions.

Rajdoot’s legacy also highlights the shifts in Indian mobility preferences, as it faced fierce competition from more fuel-efficient Japanese imports in the 1990s, which ultimately led to its decline. For vintage motorcycle collectors and restorers, Rajdoot remains an intriguing and cherished classic.

Where Rajdoot Fits in Modern Indian Biking Culture

Today, while the brand no longer manufactures bikes, Rajdoot motorcycles are celebrated by aficionados with vintage bike rallies and restoration communities dedicated to preserving their history. Its story also serves as a case study in Indian industrial evolution, brand collaboration, and market dynamics within the two-wheeler segment.

FAQ About Rajdoot Bikes

Q1: What was the main difference between the Rajdoot Excel-T and Rajdoot 350?A1: The Excel-T was a 173 cc single-cylinder two-stroke bike based on Polish SHL M11 design, focused on economy and durability. The Rajdoot 350 was a more powerful 347 cc two-stroke twin-cylinder motorcycle developed in collaboration with Yamaha, targeting performance.

Q2: Why was the Rajdoot 350 discontinued?A2: The Rajdoot 350 was phased out due to rising competition from fuel-efficient Japanese motorcycles entering India in the 1990s, coupled with high maintenance costs and spare parts scarcity.

Q3: Are Rajdoot motorcycles still popular today?A3: While no longer in production, Rajdoot bikes enjoy a cult following among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts in India who celebrate their historic significance and rugged build.

Key Resources & Further Reading

• Learn more about classic Indian motorcycles and their history on abhinandps.com

• Read about vintage motorcycle restoration efforts and Rajdoot's impact on Indian roads

• Explore authoritative automotive sources like Forbes Autos and government transport statistics for Indian two-wheelers