The Yezdi Roadking holds a special place in the hearts of Indian motorcycle enthusiasts, a name synonymous with rugged reliability and a rich legacy. Originally produced by Ideal Jawa Ltd. in Mysore from 1978 to 1996, the Roadking was a dominant force in its era, celebrated for its robust 2-stroke engine and motocross-inspired design. Fast forward to 2025, and Classic Legends, a subsidiary of the Mahindra Group, is set to resurrect this legendary nameplate, blending its vintage charm with modern engineering. After reintroducing the Yezdi brand in 2022 with models like the Roadster, Scrambler, and Adventure, the company now aims to position the Roadking as its flagship offering, promising a motorcycle that appeals to both nostalgia-driven riders and those seeking contemporary performance.
The revival of the Yezdi Roadking is not just a nod to its storied past but a bold step into the competitive Indian two-wheeler market. Unlike its predecessors, which share a 334cc platform, the new Roadking is expected to break away from this mold, potentially featuring a larger engine and a distinct design ethos. Spotted at dealer events in 2024, the bike has sparked excitement with its retro roadster styling, modern features, and a promise of enhanced performance. This detailed exploration covers the bike’s technical specifications, available variants, pricing across major metro cities, and an in-depth look at its design, performance, and market positioning, alongside a comparison with its closest rivals.
Technical Specifications
The Yezdi Roadking is anticipated to deliver a blend of classic aesthetics and modern technology. While exact specifications are yet to be officially confirmed by Classic Legends, insights from sightings, industry speculation, and online sources like BikeDekho and BikeWale provide a reliable foundation. Below is a tabular representation of the expected technical specifications for the upcoming Roadking, based on the most consistent data available as of March 27, 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke |
| Displacement | 465 cc (speculated) |
| Max Power | 30-35 bhp (estimated) |
| Max Torque | 32-35 Nm (estimated) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled |
| Frame | Double-cradle |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic forks with gaiters |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock, preload adjustable |
| Front Brake | 320 mm disc, dual-channel ABS |
| Rear Brake | 240 mm disc, dual-channel ABS |
| Tyres (Front) | 100/90-19 (speculated) |
| Tyres (Rear) | 140/70-17 (speculated) |
| Wheel Type | Alloy wheels |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13-15 litres (estimated) |
| Kerb Weight | 190-200 kg (estimated) |
| Ground Clearance | 175-180 mm (estimated) |
| Seat Height | 790-800 mm (estimated) |
| Mileage | 25-30 kmpl (estimated) |
These specifications are subject to change upon the official launch, expected in late 2025. The speculated 465cc engine marks a significant departure from the 334cc engines used in other Yezdi models, suggesting a focus on delivering superior power and torque for a more commanding ride.
Variants
The Yezdi Roadking is expected to launch with a single variant initially, though there’s speculation about additional trims based on engine capacity or styling differences spotted at dealer events. Below is a table outlining the anticipated variant details, drawing from BikeWale and BikeDekho insights.
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| Roadking STD | Base model with retro design, LED lighting, and dual-channel ABS |
| Roadking 500 (Speculated) | Potential higher-capacity variant with a 500cc engine, possibly based on BSA’s 650cc platform, featuring enhanced features like navigation |
While the Roadking STD is the most confirmed variant, the Roadking 500 remains speculative, with some sources suggesting Classic Legends might introduce it as a premium offering to compete with larger-displacement rivals. Official confirmation is awaited, but the single-variant strategy aligns with Yezdi’s approach to its initial relaunched models.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Yezdi Roadking varies across metro cities due to differences in ex-showroom costs, RTO charges, and insurance. The estimated ex-showroom price ranges from ₹2,20,000 to ₹2,60,000, with on-road prices reflecting additional costs. Below is a table of projected on-road prices in major Indian metro cities as of March 27, 2025, based on BikeDekho and BikeWale data.
| City | Estimated On-Road Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | 2,50,000 – 2,90,000 |
| Mumbai | 2,55,000 – 2,95,000 |
| Bangalore | 2,60,000 – 3,00,000 |
| Chennai | 2,52,000 – 2,92,000 |
| Kolkata | 2,48,000 – 2,88,000 |
These figures are approximate and subject to final pricing announcements. The Roadking’s pricing positions it as a mid-range premium motorcycle, appealing to riders seeking a blend of heritage and modern value.
About the Yezdi Roadking
Design and Styling
The Yezdi Roadking stays true to its heritage with a retro roadster design that echoes the original model’s rugged charm. Spotted prototypes reveal a boxy fuel tank with tank grips, a round LED headlight, and a wide, flat handlebar that ensures an upright riding posture—ideal for long rides. The bike’s side panels are minimalist, featuring the iconic Yezdi logo, while a chunky exhaust adds to its muscular stance. The single-piece seat promises comfort for both rider and pillion, with luggage hooks under the pillion seat enhancing practicality. Unlike its 1970s predecessor, which sported a motocross-inspired frame, the new Roadking adopts a double-cradle chassis for improved stability and handling.
The suspension setup includes telescopic forks with gaiters at the front, a nod to its off-road lineage, paired with a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear for a balanced ride. Alloy wheels fitted with Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp tyres (speculated sizes: 100/90-19 front, 140/70-17 rear) ensure durability and grip across varied terrains. The design strikes a balance between nostalgia and modernity, with LED indicators and a semi-digital instrument cluster hinted at by toggle buttons on the switchgear. This cluster might include smartphone connectivity and navigation, aligning with contemporary rider expectations.
Engine and Performance
The heart of the Yezdi Roadking is its speculated 465cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine, a significant upgrade from the 334cc units powering other Yezdi models. This engine, potentially delivering 30-35 bhp and 32-35 Nm of torque, is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, promising robust low-end grunt and highway cruising capability. The shift to a 4-stroke, fuel-injected powerplant from the original 2-stroke design reflects modern emission norms (BS6 Phase 2 compliance) and rider demands for refinement. Some speculate this engine could be a detuned version of the BSA 650cc platform, adapted for the Indian market, though Classic Legends has emphasized it won’t rely on existing Yezdi platforms.
Performance-wise, the Roadking is expected to offer a top speed of around 140-150 kmph, with a mileage of 25-30 kmpl—practical for both city commutes and long-distance touring. The liquid-cooling system ensures consistent performance under India’s diverse climatic conditions, while the larger rear sprocket (a feature seen in updated Yezdi models) could enhance low-speed tractability. Riders can anticipate a throaty exhaust note, reminiscent of the original Roadking’s dual-exhaust roar, though tuned for modern refinement.
Features and Technology
The Yezdi Roadking is poised to blend classic styling with modern amenities. Key features include dual-channel ABS with multiple modes (Road, Off-road, Rain speculated), ensuring safety across conditions. The LED lighting suite—headlight, tail lamp, and indicators—enhances visibility and adds a premium touch. The semi-digital instrument cluster, possibly featuring a digital inset within a dual-pod analogue setup, is expected to display essentials like speed, gear position, and fuel status, with potential add-ons like Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and call alerts.
Additional practical touches include a USB charging port, a feature increasingly standard in this segment, and luggage hooks for touring convenience. While not as feature-heavy as some rivals, the Roadking’s focus appears to be on delivering a no-nonsense riding experience with just enough tech to satisfy modern riders without overwhelming its retro appeal.
Ride and Handling
The Yezdi Roadking promises a commanding yet comfortable ride, thanks to its upright ergonomics and well-tuned suspension. The telescopic forks with gaiters and monoshock rear suspension are designed to absorb bumps on India’s uneven roads while offering stability on highways. With an estimated ground clearance of 175-180 mm, the bike should handle moderate off-road trails, staying true to its motocross roots, though it’s primarily a roadster. The 790-800 mm seat height ensures accessibility for a wide range of riders, while the 190-200 kg kerb weight suggests a planted feel without being unwieldy.
Braking is handled by a 320 mm front disc and 240 mm rear disc, both supported by dual-channel ABS, providing confident stopping power. The speculated tyre sizes offer a balance of agility and grip, with Pirelli rubber hinting at premium quality. Early impressions from dealer event sightings suggest a bike that’s easy to maneuver in traffic yet capable of tackling long rides with ease—a versatility that could set it apart in its class.
Market Positioning and Target Audience
The Yezdi Roadking is positioned as a premium retro roadster, targeting riders who value heritage, performance, and practicality. Priced between ₹2.2 lakh and ₹2.6 lakh (ex-showroom), it slots into a competitive mid-range segment, appealing to enthusiasts upgrading from 200-350cc bikes and those drawn to its nostalgic appeal. Unlike the Yezdi Adventure (adventure tourer) or Scrambler (off-road capable), the Roadking caters to riders prioritizing on-road comfort and style, with occasional off-road capability as a bonus.
Classic Legends aims to leverage the Roadking’s legacy—its dominance in rallies and road races during the 1970s and 80s—to attract older riders who remember the original, while its modern updates target younger buyers seeking an alternative to mainstream brands. The bike’s flagship status within the Yezdi lineup underscores its role as a statement piece, blending the brand’s rugged ethos with contemporary refinement.
Close Competitors
The Yezdi Roadking enters a fiercely competitive segment, facing off against established players and new entrants. Below is an in-depth comparison with its closest rivals, focusing on design, performance, and pricing.
Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450
The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is a direct competitor, launched in 2024 with a 452cc single-cylinder engine producing 40 bhp and 40 Nm. Priced at ₹2.39 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s slightly costlier than the Roadking’s base estimate but offers superior power and a roadster-focused design. Its retro-modern styling, with a round headlight and minimalist bodywork, mirrors the Roadking’s aesthetic, though it leans more towards urban agility. The Guerrilla’s Tripper navigation and higher torque give it an edge in tech and performance, but the Roadking’s lower price and ABS modes could appeal to value-driven buyers.
Hero Mavrick 440
The Hero Mavrick 440, priced at ₹1.99 lakh to ₹2.24 lakh (ex-showroom), undercuts the Roadking while offering a 440cc engine with 27 bhp and 36 Nm. Its muscular design and affordable pricing make it a strong contender, targeting riders seeking a budget-friendly retro roadster. However, its single-channel ABS and less powerful output lag behind the Roadking’s speculated dual-channel ABS and higher bhp, positioning the Yezdi as a premium alternative for those willing to spend more.
Harley-Davidson X440
Priced at ₹2.39 lakh to ₹2.79 lakh (ex-showroom), the Harley-Davidson X440 brings a 440cc engine delivering 27 bhp and 38 Nm, paired with a premium brand image. Its low-slung roadster styling and Harley pedigree appeal to aspirational buyers, but its higher cost and single-channel ABS (base variant) could make the Roadking a more practical choice for safety-conscious riders. The Roadking’s retro charm and potential 465cc engine might also offer a distinct flavor in this matchup.
Triumph Speed 400
The Triumph Speed 400, at ₹2.33 lakh (ex-showroom), boasts a 398cc engine with 40 bhp and 37.5 Nm, outpacing the Roadking in power. Its neo-retro design, premium build, and Triumph’s global reputation make it a formidable rival. Features like ride-by-wire and a refined ride quality give it an edge, but the Roadking’s lower price and rugged heritage could sway buyers prioritizing value and nostalgia over outright performance.
QJ Motor SRC 500
The QJ Motor SRC 500, priced around ₹2.50 lakh (ex-showroom), offers a 480cc twin-cylinder engine with 25.5 bhp and 36 Nm. Its classic styling and larger displacement target retro enthusiasts, but its lower power output and lesser-known brand presence in India put it at a disadvantage against the Roadking’s anticipated specs and Yezdi’s legacy appeal. The Roadking’s modern features like ABS modes could further tilt the scales in its favor.
Comparison Insights
The Yezdi Roadking sits in a sweet spot between affordability and premium appeal, competing with bikes that either offer more power (Guerrilla 450, Speed 400) or lower pricing (Mavrick 440). Its speculated 465cc engine and dual-channel ABS give it a technical edge over some rivals, while its pricing undercuts premium options like the X440 and Speed 400. The Roadking’s unique selling proposition lies in its blend of heritage, rugged design, and modern safety features, making it a versatile choice for riders seeking a do-it-all retro roadster.
Final Thoughts!
The Yezdi Roadking is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a revival of a legend, reimagined for 2025. With its anticipated 465cc engine, retro styling, and modern features like dual-channel ABS and LED lighting, it promises to deliver a compelling mix of performance and nostalgia. Priced competitively between ₹2.2 lakh and ₹2.6 lakh (ex-showroom), it targets a broad audience, from legacy fans to new riders seeking a distinctive alternative to Royal Enfield, Hero, or Triumph offerings. While it faces stiff competition, the Roadking’s rugged charm, practical design, and Yezdi’s storied past could carve it a niche in India’s bustling two-wheeler market. As its launch nears, all eyes will be on Classic Legends to see if this flagship lives up to its iconic name.
