About YEZDI BIKES
Yezdi is an iconic Indian motorcycle brand, initially manufactured by Ideal Jawa India Ltd. Known for its rugged two-stroke machines and rally pedigree, Yezdi built a cult following from the 1970s through the 1990s. After a 25 year hiatus, the marque was revived in January 2022 by Classic Legends (a Mahindra subsidiary), aiming to blend retro appeal with modern engineering.
Yezdi bike models in India include popular options like the Yezdi Roadster, Yezdi Scrambler, and Yezdi Adventure. These models are designed to cater to a variety of riders — from city cruisers to off-road enthusiasts — combining vintage charm with contemporary performance and features.
Early Heritage (1960-1996)
- Foundation (1960): Ideal Jawa India Ltd., based in Mysore, began licensed production of Czech designed Jawa motorcycles.
- Yezdi Launch (1973): The company introduced the Yezdi brand, adapted for more challenging Indian conditions, with models such as the 250 ‘B’ Type and Roadking.
- Rally Success: Yezdi bikes earned rally wins and became India’s premier off road machines in the 1980s.
- Discontinuation (1996): Stricter emission norms, competition from Japanese four strokes, and labour issues led to the brand’s shutdown.
Decline & Legal Matters
Following its closure, the Ideal Jawa company was wound up in 2001. In December 2022, the Karnataka High Court confirmed that the Yezdi trademark remained with the liquidator of Ideal Jawa, restraining Classic Legends from using it until the appeal was decided—a decision that was subsequently stayed pending the appeals.
Revival by Classic Legends (2022–Present)
- Relaunch Date: 13 January 2022, Yezdi returned with three new models—Roadster, Scrambler, and Adventure—featuring a shared 334 cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine, but with bespoke tuning per variant.
- Design Ethos: Another early model that gained popularity for its robust design.
Market Presence & Expansion
- Dealership Network: Started with ~300 outlets (2022), grew to 423 by early 2024; target of 750 dealerships by mid 2026.
- Exports & Global Focus: While Jawa and BSA will lead export efforts, Yezdi remains primarily a domestic brand; Classic Legends is eyeing ASEAN markets (with the Philippines as its first target), with Japan, Australia, and New Zealand on the radar.
- Sales Trajectory: Government registration data indicate that over 69,000 Yezdi units have been registered since the launch (excluding certain states).
Timeline of Key Milestones
| Date |
Milestone |
| 1960 |
Ideal Jawa India founded; begins licensed Jawa production. |
| 1973 |
Launch of first Yezdi branded motorcycles (250 ’B’ Type). |
| 1996 |
Ideal Jawa halts Yezdi production; company wound up in 2001. |
| 13 January 2022 |
Yezdi brand relaunched by Classic Legends with Roadster, Scrambler, Adventure. |
| Jan 2024 |
Dealership count reaches 423; ASEAN export strategy announced. |
| Dec 2024 |
Prototype reveal: future mid segment models and tech roadmap. |
| 4 June 2025 |
Launch of 2025 Yezdi Adventure (₹2.15 lakh, ex showroom). |
| Mid 2026 (Tgt.) |
Network expansion to 750 dealerships; 2–3 new Yezdi models expected. |
Future Plans & EV Initiatives
- New Model Pipeline : 2–3 additional mid segment (190–250 cc) launches expected in 2024–25 to deepen the lineup.
- Electrification : Classic Legends is developing EVs, but initial electric launches (under BSA) are slated for Western markets; Yezdi EVs may follow once infrastructure matures.
- Digital & After Sales : Enhancements to online booking, connected bike features, and service network expansion.
