2023 Yezdi Roadster Review: Likes And Dislikes

Have the updates for 2023 made the Roadster a better bike?

When we first rode the Yezdi Roadster we came across a fun and characterful bike. In fact, it was our favourite amongst all the Classic Legends bikes. What really kept us from strongly recommending it though, was its far from ideal refinement and build quality levels. 

But then Yezdi did update the bike for 2023, claiming better refinement, rideability and a lot more. We did get a chance to ride it and here’s all that’s likeable about the Roadster: 

Peppy Performance 

The Roadster’s 334cc mill is still rev-happy and offers brisk acceleration. And that’s complemented by its engaging handling. Of course it’s not streetfighter-like sharp and agile but the flat handlebars give a lot of leverage to flick around the bike and even tipping it from one side to the other is a lot of fun. Making things a bit more fun is the slick 6-speed gearbox and a clutch that’s quite light to operate. 

Sharp brakes

Bringing all that performance to an instant halt are the Roadster’s strong brakes. The bite from the Roadster’s 320mm front disc has a reassuringly strong initial bite and the progression is super steady as well. No matter what speeds you’re doing, they inspire a lot of confidence. 

Slightly Better Tractability

Bits like a new gearbox, piston, updated crankshaft and more have helped the Roadster’s mannerisms at lower speeds. It’s still far from a bike that you can stick in high gears and low speeds, but the knocking and juddering have definitely minimised and the bike feels a lot calmer and collected. 

But…

There are still some things about the bike that need to be addressed 

Still A Bit Vibey

The Roadster is undoubtedly smoother than before, especially lower down the rev range. But as you go up the revs, the vibes become a lot more apparent. Go above 100kmph and you’ll feel the vibes on the handlebar as well as the footpegs. The higher the revs are, the more bothersome the vibes become. So while it is better than before, we would’ve liked more refinement from it. 

Ergonomic Issues

Sit on the Roadster and you’ll notice that the outer end of your palm brushes up against the bike’s bar-end mirrors. And if you have large hands like yours truly, the brushing up happens effortlessly. 

The Roadster’s big side panel is another ergonomic issue for it scuffs up against the rider’s boots easily. With my size 10 boot, it was especially easy to scuff up the panel. 

And finally, it’s the LCD console. While it’s pretty good on its own, under harsh sunlight its visibility is quite low, to the point where I couldn’t even see the bike’s speed when the sun was right above me.  

Verdict

The Roadster is undoubtedly a better product now. And with its prices starting from Rs 2,06,142 (ex-showroom Delhi), it’s well priced too for its segment. If Yezdi can just sort out the little niggles we mentioned earlier, the Roadster would be a much more well rounded product. 

What the Roadster brings is an unapologetically bratty nature. While the other bikes in the segment focus on offering a laidback riding experience, this bike, with its flat handlebar, upright ergos and revvy nature, loves keeping the rider on the edge. And that is an experience we’re sure a lot of people will love.