India’s motorcycle scene is experiencing a retro revival in November 2025, led by the Rajdoot 350’s comeback. This iconic name from the 1980s has returned with modern engineering while keeping its old-school personality intact. Naturally, its biggest rival is the Royal Enfield Classic 350, a symbol of timeless design and thumping performance.
For Indian buyers torn between nostalgia and proven refinement, this in-depth comparison explores how the new Rajdoot 350 stacks up against the Classic 350 in design, torque delivery, ride comfort, features, and pricing.
Design & Styling
The Rajdoot 350 2025 has been reimagined to stay true to its retro DNA. It retains the signature rounded headlamp, teardrop fuel tank, and chrome-laden side panels, now paired with LED lighting and alloy wheels for a subtle modern twist. The upright seating and wide handlebar echo its old-school character, appealing to classic purists.
In contrast, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 blends heritage with refinement. Its teardrop tank, metal fenders, and spoke wheels still exude timeless charm, but every component feels more premium. The latest model also features improved paint finishes and a more sculpted tail section.
| Design Element | Rajdoot 350 2025 | Royal Enfield Classic 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Headlamp | Round LED | Halogen / LED (variant-based) |
| Wheels | 17-inch alloy | 18-inch spoke |
| Instrument Cluster | Semi-digital retro dial | Digi-analog cluster |
| Seat Type | Single-piece wide seat | Split seat |
| Exhaust | Twin-pod chrome | Single-pod thumper |
Verdict: Rajdoot wins on nostalgia and visual freshness, while the Classic 350 still feels more premium in build finish.
Engine & Performance
The heart of any retro motorcycle is its engine, and both contenders focus on offering strong mid-range torque.
| Specification | Rajdoot 350 2025 | Royal Enfield Classic 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 334 cc, air-cooled, FI | 349 cc, air-cooled, FI |
| Power | 28 PS | 20.2 PS |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 27 Nm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Kerb Weight | 182 kg | 195 kg |
The Rajdoot 350 has a clear power advantage, offering punchier acceleration and a quicker throttle response. Its lighter body adds to the fun-to-ride feel. The Classic 350, however, delivers smoother torque delivery, refined vibrations, and a laid-back cruising nature that still appeals to touring enthusiasts.
Verdict: Rajdoot 350 feels sportier and more agile, while Classic 350 prioritises refinement and composure.
Ride & Handling
The Rajdoot 350 features a double-cradle chassis with telescopic front forks and twin rear gas shocks. Suspension is tuned slightly firmer for stability on Indian highways. The bike’s 17-inch alloys add to cornering confidence without compromising comfort.
The Classic 350, built on the J-platform, offers superior ride comfort and balance. Its longer wheelbase and plush seat make it perfect for long-distance cruising.
| Parameter | Rajdoot 350 | Classic 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Telescopic forks | Telescopic forks |
| Rear Suspension | Twin gas shocks | Twin gas shocks |
| Wheelbase | 1,385 mm | 1,390 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 180 mm | 170 mm |
Verdict: Classic 350 remains the comfort benchmark; Rajdoot 350 feels livelier and easier to manoeuvre in city conditions.
Sound & Character
For many enthusiasts, the sound is what defines these motorcycles. The Rajdoot 350 revives its twin-exhaust note with a deeper bass and slightly modern tuning. It’s louder than the Classic but still refined enough for city rides.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 maintains its legendary “thump,” now tuned smoother to meet emission standards. While less raw than older models, it retains a distinctive identity on Indian roads.
Verdict: Rajdoot 350 wins on nostalgic exhaust note; Classic 350 stays classically calm and composed.
Features & Technology
| Feature | Rajdoot 350 2025 | Classic 350 |
|---|---|---|
| ABS | Dual-channel | Dual-channel |
| Traction Control | No | No |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes (basic) | Yes (Tripper Navigation) |
| LED Lighting | Full setup | Partial |
| USB Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Instrument Cluster | Semi-digital | Tripper + analog combo |
Verdict: Classic 350 offers slightly more tech with the Tripper Navigation system, but Rajdoot’s LED setup and modern touches make it feel updated yet authentic.
Mileage & Efficiency
Despite being performance-oriented, the Rajdoot 350 claims an ARAI mileage of 35 km/l, thanks to fuel injection and lighter construction. The Classic 350 returns around 32 km/l under similar conditions.
| Variant | Mileage (km/l) | Fuel Tank (L) | Range (km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rajdoot 350 | 35 | 13 | ~450 |
| Classic 350 | 32 | 13 | ~415 |
Verdict: Rajdoot 350 delivers slightly better fuel efficiency with its tuned single-cylinder engine.
Pricing & Variants (India, November 2025)
| Model | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) | On-Road Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Rajdoot 350 Base | 2.00 lakh | 2.25 lakh |
| Rajdoot 350 Chrome Edition | 2.25 lakh | 2.50 lakh |
| Classic 350 Redditch | 2.10 lakh | 2.35 lakh |
| Classic 350 Chrome | 2.30 lakh | 2.55 lakh |
Verdict: Both are evenly priced; Rajdoot appeals to nostalgia-driven buyers, while Classic 350 continues to offer the established brand edge.
Maintenance & Ownership
Rajdoot’s service network is being re-established under Yamaha-Maruti collaboration, offering nationwide availability in 2025’s second phase. Service costs are expected to remain competitive at ₹2,500–₹3,000 per service.
Royal Enfield’s massive network and reliability track record continue to be unmatched. Annual service costs hover around ₹2,800.
Verdict: Classic 350 wins for ease of ownership today; Rajdoot 350 is catching up fast with new service hubs.
Final Verdict
The New Rajdoot 350 brings back old-school charm with modern reliability. It’s lighter, more powerful, and designed for riders who want something fresh yet nostalgic. The Royal Enfield Classic 350 remains the more mature, refined cruiser built for relaxed long rides.
Choose Rajdoot 350 if you want a punchy, retro-styled daily rider with strong torque and head-turning looks.
Choose Classic 350 if comfort, refinement, and heritage branding matter most.
Overall Verdict: Rajdoot 350 is the surprise performer of 2025 — a retro icon reborn with attitude.
FAQs
Which bike has more power — Rajdoot 350 or Classic 350?
The Rajdoot 350 produces 28 PS, making it noticeably more powerful than the Classic 350’s 20.2 PS.
Which offers better mileage?
Rajdoot 350 offers around 35 km/l, slightly higher than the Classic 350’s 32 km/l.
Is Rajdoot 350 suitable for highway rides?
Yes, with 30 Nm torque and a stable chassis, it performs confidently on highways.
Which has better service reach?
Royal Enfield has broader service coverage across India currently, though Rajdoot’s network is expanding.
What is the expected on-road price of Rajdoot 350 in India?
Prices range between ₹2.25–₹2.5 lakh depending on the variant and city.
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