Legendary bikes of yesteryears

There was a time when the roads weren’t clogged, when traffic signals were fewer and riding motorcycles was reserved for the truly passionate bikers. A time when motorcycles were a style statement, when people aspired to own a motorcycle and commuting was left to scooters.
We rewind to the 80s and 90s where the glorious era of two-stroke motorcycles was at its prime. We take a look at some of these bikes that most of us would have fond memories of and would aptly classify as legends in Indian motorcycling history.

Yamaha RD350 and RX100

Yamaha, back then, was the manufacturer who was associated with pure unadulterated performance. The RD350 and RX100 were at the pinnacle of performance during that time when no other alternatives were available.
The RD350 was a speed demon and I remember sitting pillion on one, many years back, and almost falling off it due to the tremendous acceleration this 350cc parallel twin beast packed. The bike was feared for the same reasons too as its high-speed handling and low braking power meant that accidents were frequent and fatal. Yet there were many fans. The dual exhaust pipes, flat tank, round headlamp and functional styling are still admired. If you want one now, be ready to shell out a minimum of Rs. 1 lakh for one in decent condition!



The RX 100 was what succeeded the RD350 and picked up where the RD left. When the RX100 came in, fuel-efficiency was becoming a prime criteria but the need for exhilarating performance still remained. It carried similar styling cues from the RD but in a narrower frame. The bike was a hot favorite for college-going guys who wanted the RX 100 as a show of power, style and for its hooligan-like attitude. There are proud owners even now who wouldn’t let go of it.

Yezdi/Jawa

Ideal Jawa Ltd was a Mysore based company who sold licensed Jawa motorcycles, originally from the Czech Republic. They sold the bike under the brand name Jawa and later Yezdi.
Back in the 80’s, Yezdi bikes used to rule the roads. Universities and colleges around those times used to buzz with the sound of the 250cc twin-exhaust Yezdi. This was no race bike but was more of an alternative to the heavier Royal Enfield Bullet. But it could gain speed fast and was easy to zip around on it. The bike was popular because of its image as a handsome street cruiser. In fact, Yezdi and Jawa motorcycles continued to run successfully even after the entry of Japanese bikes in the market.



Very recently, the bike was featured in the movie “Ishaqzaade” in a bright yellow shade, being ridden by the lead actor. The first bike I had kick-started was a Yezdi, when I was in the 6^th grade, and I remember being astonished at the kick lever which flipped and doubled as a gear shifter. The Yezdi and Jawa bikes still have a huge fan following till date.

Rajdoot GTS Bobby

To put the size of this bike into perspective, imagine a skinny short-heighted bloke standing next to a Sumo wrestler, that’s how small this bike was. The Rajdoot GTS, short for Grand Touring Sports, was given the name “Bobby” after the bike featured in the Rishi Kapoor and Dimple Kapadia starrer – Bobby.
I am not sure as to why Escorts Rajdoot brought this motorcycle out especially with the tag “GTS” as it didn’t have anything to do with touring on the highways. A 3-speed gearbox was mated to a 173cc engine with ergonomics that would encourage one to join yoga classes for flexibility. Nevertheless, it was still quite a tarmac scorcher back in the days. The cute little bike never sold huge volumes but still managed to create a space in most people’s heart.