Expert Views on the Royal Enfield
Bullet 350
Rajesh Kumar have developed a deep connection with the world of motorcycles.
Does the motorcycle still
have the same timeless elegance appeal and attraction as the original Bullet
even if RE changed practically every aspect of it?
Overview
From serving as the
Indian Armys and polices preferred horse in 1955 to slowly making its way into
the garages of regular people the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 has gained a cult
following in India that doesnt appear to be abating anytime soon.
Can you believe that it is the oldest motorcycle still in
production in the world?
Even now fans of vintage bikes are drawn to some of its
characteristics such as its distinctive thump sense of solidity and
straightforward yet timeless design.
In an effort to
preserve its unparalleled heritage while providing a more refined and
contemporary riding experience the Chennai based company has now introduced the
new generation Bullet 350.
Does the motorcycle still have the same timeless elegance
appeal and attraction as the original Bullet even if RE changed practically
every aspect of it?
We spend some time with the motorcycle in an attempt to find
an explanation.
The Pictures
The new Bullets
overall attitude and shape have been meticulously maintained by Royal Enfield
to be as similar to the previous model as feasible.
It therefore has the
same straightforward yet endearing design that is distinctly retro.
Despite having a
nearly identical appearance to the Classic the single piece seat with a ribbed
pattern the squared off rear fender and the golden pinstripes on the side
panels and fuel tank distinguish it.
Although I absolutely love the design I believe that in
order to give the Bullet a more distinct visual character RE should have kept
the boxy tail lamp and made the rear fender larger and more angular.
The top end Black and
Gold trim which has an all black theme throughout is the one you see in these
photos. The motorcycle comes in three distinct color options.
The less expensive
models with chrome finished engine casings may be preferred by RE purists.
The Bundle
Before going into the
new Bullets improvements its crucial to understand that aside from a few minor
cosmetic changes and a revised handlebar and seat the bike is nearly
mechanically identical to the new Classic 350.
The ground clearance
and seat height are identical to those of the Classic.
The new 349cc air/oil
cooled engine which produces 20.2bhp and 27Nm and is paired to a five speed
gearbox powers the bike..
Thicker 41mm
telescopic forks with 130mm of travel and two springs at the back handle
damping tasks. It still rides on a 19 to
18inch spoke wheel combination though.
In the higher two versions dual channel ABS provides
stopping power from a single disc at both ends.
In contrast the least expensive grade has a rear drum brake.
For increased comfort
Royal Enfield has also fitted the bike with a more heavily cushioned seat.
The updated model
has a USB charging connector warning lights and a semi digital console making
it much more current in terms of features.
to the Classic 350 a tripper navigation system is an
optional feature for the new Bullet.
The Journey
Chugging along in
fifth gear at 50 kmph with the distinctive dug dug dug sound for
companionship. The Bullet has always
been admired for this type of riding experience.
And the new model
adeptly accomplishes all of that and much more.
It is an easy and stress free city riding tool because of the engines
remarkable low and midrange torque.
The bike moves quickly forward with a small twist of the
throttle and overtaking is simple even if youre in a gear higher for the pace.
A smooth shifting
gearbox that is crisper than the previous Bullet comes with this. However the clutch is hefty and may be difficult
to use for extended periods of time when riding in heavy traffic.
The new 349cc engines
refinement really comes into its own as you accelerate on the highway because
the vibrations are so little.
The fuel tank buzzes a little but it never gets annoying
even while youre traveling at 80 to 100 kmph.
Additionally
overtaking is always possible when a gear is dropped even though it takes some
time.
Alongside all of this comes a pounding exhaust sound that is
deeper and bassier than the previous Bullets but less clattery.
The new Bullets
riding quality is yet another impressive feature.
At any speed the front and rear suspension smoothes out
small dips and crests flawlessly despite not being very soft.
The back only feels the sharper undulations but not enough
to give you a terrible shock.
In addition to the
suspension adjustment the huge 19 to 18inch wheel combination makes it easier
to roll over obstacles.
The comfortable
upright riding position and plush seat which not only helps absorb shocks but
also offers enough room to fit a large person further enhance comfort.
You must exert some
force on the handlebar in order to change directions.
It feels calm and predictable once its leaned over in a
corner though and its easy to follow the planned line. Your cornering experience wont be hampered by
the footpegs scraping too soon.
It does involve some
muscling though if youre feeling like doing some lefttoright tomfoolery in
traffic.
Regarding the brakes the front disc has enough bite to bring
this 195 kg machine to a swift stop
Personal suggestion
I firmly believe that
the new Bullet 350 upholds the impressive tradition of the models from the
previous generation.
Its timeless look wide chested riding stance and pounding
engine feel are all characteristics that the iconic brand is known for.
With superior engine refinement greater acceleration
stronger brakes a more comfortable ride a more robust build and more features
the new model actually outperforms its predecessor in every way.
Additionally we
believe that for anyone seeking a comparable riding experience at a lower cost
the Bullet 350 is a better option than the Classic 350.
Although the technical components of the two bikes are
almost the same the entry level Bullet 350 model costs Rs 20000 less than the
Classics equivalent trim..
Author Bio Rajesh Kumar
Rajesh Kumar is an avid bike rider and passionate motorcycle reviewer based in Pune Maharashtra India.
Over the past two years Rajesh has explored diverse terrains across India gaining first hand experience with various bike models in real world conditions.
His deep enthusiasm for biking combined with technical knowledge allows him to provide insightful reliable and engaging reviews that help fellow riders make informed decisions.
Resource
https://www.bikewale.com/royalenfield-bikes/bullet/
Credits
All image and featured by bikewale
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