The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is one of the most popular motorcycles in India, especially among those who love the retro charm and the distinctive thump of the iconic brand. The Classic 350 has been around for more than a decade, but it has recently received a major overhaul that makes it better than ever.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is more than just a motorcycle; it’s an experience. With its iconic design, rich heritage, and signature thump, it has captured the hearts (and garages) of riders worldwide for decades. But amidst the nostalgia, does the 2024 Classic 350 hold up in today’s modern motorcycle landscape? Buckle up, as we delve into the details to help you decide if this single-cylinder wonder is your next two-wheeled companion.
Specification of Royal Enfield Classic 350
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 is powered by a 349 cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that produces 20.2 bhp of power at 6100 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is mated to a five-speed gearbox and features fuel injection, a balancer shaft and an electric starter. The engine is based on the same platform as the Meteor 350, but has been tuned differently to suit the character of the Classic 350.
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 also gets a new twin-downtube chassis that replaces the old single-cradle frame. The chassis is claimed to improve the handling and stability of the bike. The suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at the front and twin gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear, both with 130 mm of travel. The braking system comprises of a 300 mm disc brake at the front and a 270 mm disc brake at the rear, with dual-channel ABS as standard. The bike rides on 19-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels shod with tube-type tyres.
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 has a kerb weight of 195 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 13 litres. The seat height is 805 mm and the ground clearance is 170 mm. The bike has a wheelbase of 1390 mm and a length of 2160 mm.
Highlights of Specification
- Engine: 349cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled BS6 engine
- Power: 20.2 bhp @ 6100 rpm
- Torque: 27 Nm @ 4000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
- Brakes: Front disc, rear drum (single-channel ABS or dual-channel ABS depending on variant)
- Weight: 192-195 kg (varies by variant)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13-13.5 L (varies by variant)
- Mileage: 35-37 kmpl (claimed)
Engine Performance
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 delivers a smooth and refined performance that is suitable for both city and highway riding. The engine has a linear power delivery and a strong mid-range torque that makes it easy to cruise at low speeds or overtake with confidence. The engine also has a pleasant exhaust note that adds to the charm of the bike. The fuel injection system ensures a crisp throttle response and an improved fuel efficiency. The balancer shaft reduces the vibrations and enhances the comfort of the rider.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350’s heart lies in its air-cooled single-cylinder engine. While it may not boast earth-shattering power figures, its charm lies in its characterful thump and unhurried delivery. It’s not built for speed demons, but rather for laid-back cruising and soaking in the scenery. The new engine, compared to its predecessor, offers smoother performance and reduced vibrations, making for a more pleasant riding experience.
Royal Enfield Classic 350 Top Speed
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 can reach a top speed of around 120 kmph and can accelerate from 0 to 60 kmph in about 5 seconds.
Classic 350 Mileage
The bike has a claimed mileage of around 35 kmpl, which gives it a decent range of over 450 km on a full tank.
Build and Design of RE Classic 350
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 retains the timeless design cues of its predecessor, but with some subtle changes that make it look more modern and premium. The bike has a classic teardrop-shaped fuel tank with chrome badges, a round headlamp with LED DRLs, a chrome-rimmed analogue speedometer with an LCD display, a single-piece seat with contrast stitching, a tail lamp with LED elements, chrome-plated exhaust pipes and fenders, and an array of accessories to customize the bike.
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 is available in six variants and fifteen colours, each with its own theme and personality. The variants are Redditch (single-channel ABS), Halcyon (single or dual-channel ABS), Signals (dual-channel ABS), Dark (dual-channel ABS with alloy wheels) and Chrome (dual-channel ABS). The colours range from solid shades like Redditch Red, Halcyon Black and Signals Airborne Blue to dual-tone schemes like Halcyon Green/Black, Dark Stealth Black/Matte Black and Chrome Black/Chrome Silver.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350’s design is timeless, drawing inspiration from its long lineage. The retro silhouette, chrome accents, and teardrop fuel tank exude classic charm. Build quality is decent, with the motorcycle feeling sturdy and well-put-together. However, some might find certain fit and finish aspects could be improved.
Riding Comfort
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 offers a comfortable riding posture that is ideal for long-distance touring. The rider sits upright with a relaxed reach to the handlebars and footpegs. The seat is wide and well-padded to support the rider’s back. The pillion seat is also spacious and comfortable, with grab rails for support. The suspension is tuned to absorb the bumps and potholes on Indian roads without compromising on the handling. The tyres provide adequate grip on various surfaces and conditions.
The new Classic 350 also comes with some features that enhance the convenience and safety of the rider. These include a turn-by-turn navigation pod called Tripper that connects to the rider’s smartphone via Bluetooth and displays directions on the instrument cluster, a USB charging port below the handlebars to charge devices on the go, and a hazard light switch to indicate emergency situations.
Comfort is a strong suit of the Royal Enfield Classic 350. The upright riding position and well-padded seat ensure fatigue-free rides, even on longer journeys. The suspension, while on the stiffer side, handles bumps adequately, and the motorcycle feels planted and stable at cruising speeds.
Service
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 has a service interval of 10,000 km or one year, whichever comes first. The bike also has a warranty period of three years or 40,000 km, whichever comes earlier. The bike can be serviced at any of the authorized Royal Enfield service centres across the country. The service cost is estimated to be around Rs. 2000 per service, excluding the cost of consumables and spare parts.
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 also has a low maintenance cost, as most of the parts are durable and reliable. The bike does not require frequent oil changes or chain adjustments, as it has a wet sump lubrication system and an O-ring chain. The bike also has a self-diagnosis system that alerts the rider of any faults or errors in the engine or electrical system.
Royal Enfield boasts a vast service network across India and other countries, making maintenance and repairs readily available. Spare parts are also easily accessible, contributing to the motorcycle’s practicality.
What is the Royal Enfield Classic 350 price
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 is priced between Rs. 1.93 lakh and Rs. 2.25 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant and colour. The bike is available for booking online or at any of the Royal Enfield dealerships across the country. The delivery time may vary depending on the availability of stock and the waiting period in different regions.
What are the rivals of the Royal Enfield Classic 350?
If you are looking for a retro-styled motorcycle with a thumping engine and a classic appeal, you might have considered the Royal Enfield Classic 350. This bike has been one of the most popular models from the iconic brand, and has recently been updated with a new engine, chassis, features and variants. But how does it stack up against its rivals in the segment? Here are some of the bikes that can give the Classic 350 a run for its money.
Honda H’ness CB350
The Honda H’ness CB350 is a direct competitor to the Classic 350, as it offers a similar design, engine size and features. The CB350 has a 348cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 21.1hp and 30Nm of torque, slightly more than the Royal Enfield Classic 350’s 20.2hp and 27Nm. The CB350 also has a slipper clutch, which the Classic 350 lacks. The CB350 comes in two variants: DLX and DLX Pro, with the latter offering dual-tone colours, dual horns and Bluetooth connectivity. The CB350 is priced from Rs 1.96 lakh to Rs 2.06 lakh (ex-showroom), which is slightly higher than the Classic 350’s price range of Rs 1.84 lakh to Rs 2.15 lakh (ex-showroom).
Benelli Imperiale 400
The Benelli Imperiale 400 is another retro-styled motorcycle that competes with the Classic 350. It has a 374cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that makes 21hp and 29Nm of torque, almost identical to the CB350. The Imperiale 400 has a more relaxed riding posture and a longer wheelbase than the Royal Enfield Classic 350, making it more suitable for long-distance cruising. The Imperiale 400 also has a larger fuel tank of 12 litres, compared to the Classic 350’s 10 litres. The Imperiale 400 is priced at Rs 1.89 lakh (ex-showroom), which is slightly more than the base variant of the Classic 350, but less than the top-end variant.
Jawa 42
The Jawa 42 is a modern take on the classic Jawa motorcycles, and offers a different flavour than the Royal Enfield Classic 350. The Jawa 42 has a smaller but more powerful engine than the Royal Enfield Classic 350: a 293cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder unit that churns out 27.3hp and 27Nm of torque. The Forty Two also has a six-speed gearbox, which the Classic 350 does not have. The Jawa 42 is lighter and more agile than the Classic 350, and has a sportier riding position. The Jawa 42 comes in two variants: single-channel ABS and dual-channel ABS, priced at Rs 1.68 lakh and Rs 1.83 lakh (ex-showroom) respectively.
Bajaj Dominar 250
The Bajaj Dominar 250 is not exactly a retro-styled motorcycle, but it can appeal to those who want a powerful and versatile bike that can handle city and highway riding with ease. The Dominar 250 has a 248cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 27hp and 23.5Nm of torque, which is more than the Classic 350’s output. The Dominar 250 also has an upside-down fork, a slipper clutch, dual-channel ABS and LED lights, which are not available on the Classic 350.
The Dominar 250 has a more aggressive and modern design than the Classic 350, and offers a comfortable riding posture with a split seat and raised handlebar. The Dominar 250 is priced at Rs 1.54 lakh (ex-showroom), which is significantly lower than the Classic.
Who should buy the Royal Enfield Classic 350?
While the Royal Enfield Classic 350 boasts its own unique charm, it won’t resonate with every rider. Here’s a breakdown of who might find the Classic 350 a perfect fit:
Cruisers and Leisure Riders:
- If you prioritize enjoying the ride over chasing speed, the Classic 350’s relaxed, comfortable ergonomics and unhurried pace make it ideal for leisurely cruises and scenic explorations.
- The comfortable upright riding position is perfect for soaking in the sights and sounds, making it great for weekend getaways or relaxed city commutes.
New Riders:
- The Classic 350’s manageable power, well-balanced handling, and forgiving nature make it a good choice for beginners. It’s easy to maneuver and inspires confidence, allowing you to focus on learning the fundamentals of riding.
Aesthetics Connoisseurs:
- If you’re drawn to classic, timeless design, the Classic 350 delivers in spades. Its iconic silhouette, chrome accents, and vintage flair are sure to turn heads and attract those who appreciate heritage and character.
Budget-Conscious Riders:
- Compared to many other motorcycles, the Classic 350 offers an attractive price point, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious riders. The readily available service network and easy spare part availability add to its practicality.
However, the Classic 350 might not be for everyone:
Speed Demons:
- If you crave adrenaline-pumping acceleration and highway cruising at high speeds, the Classic 350’s modest power output won’t satisfy your needs. Consider sportier or performance-oriented motorcycles for that thrill.
Long-Distance Tourers:
- While the Classic 350 can handle long rides, its limited wind protection and luggage capacity might not be ideal for hardcore touring enthusiasts. Look for motorcycles designed specifically for long-distance comfort and practicality.
Those Prioritizing Modern Features:
- The Classic 350 focuses on its classic charm and lacks some modern features found in many other motorcycles. If you prioritize connectivity, advanced rider aids, or cutting-edge technology, this might not be your ideal choice.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you value character, heritage, comfortable cruising, and affordability, the Classic 350 is a compelling option. If speed, performance, or modern features are your priorities, there might be other motorcycles better suited for you. Take a test ride, consider your riding style, and choose the motorcycle that speaks to your soul (and matches your needs!).
Conclusion
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 is a significant improvement over its predecessor in terms of engine performance, handling stability, build quality and features. It is a motorcycle that appeals to both the heart and the mind of the rider with its timeless charm and modern convenience. It is a motorcycle that can take you on long journeys across different terrains and conditions with ease and comfort. It is a motorcycle that can make you feel nostalgic and proud of its rich heritage and legacy. It is a motorcycle that is stronger than time.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is not just a motorcycle; it’s a statement. It’s for those who value character, heritage, and a unique riding experience over pure performance. If you’re looking for a motorcycle that turns heads, provides comfortable cruising, and comes at an attractive price point, the Classic 350 might just be your perfect match. However, if you crave highway speeds and neck-snapping acceleration, you might want to look elsewhere. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you prioritize in a motorcycle. But remember, with the Classic 350, the journey is just as important as the destination. So, are you ready to experience the timeless thump?
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