The Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350 – as the name suggests – is based on the Classic 350, but distinguishes itself by means of its wheel size, colour palette, handlebar, rider ergonomics and superior finish levels. It retains the tried-and-tested J-series 350cc engine.
Here are 3 reasons why you should consider this retro-bobber from Royal Enfield
1. Design, colour palette.
Design is one of the most prominent aspects that set the Goan Classic apart from the standard model. Beginning at the front, it sports retro-inspired whitewall tyres – an exceedingly rare feature on motorcycles today.
The Goan Classic trades the Classic's handlebar for tall ape-hanger bars that put your arms almost straight and in line with your shoulders.
The Goan Classic’s colour palette is bold and unconventional, perfect for riders who enjoy making a statement with their machines. Buyers can choose from four distinct paint options.
2. Uniqueness without compromises.
The Goan Classic sets itself apart from the rest of the J-series line-up with its distinctive bobber-inspired styling. While traditional bobbers usually feature a single seat – sacrificing the practicality of carrying a pillion or luggage – Royal Enfield has taken these factors into account. The bike comes with a bolt-on pillion seat mounted on the rear suspension, providing comfort for your passenger on shorter rides or allowing you to carry luggage when needed.
3. Tubeless tyres.
With its gorgeous whitewall tyres – retro in aesthetic but admittedly tricky to maintain – the Goan Classic pleasantly surprises with cross-spoke laced wheels that allow for tubeless rubber. It rides on CEAT’s new Zoom Classic tyres, developed specifically for this model. The front wheel measures 19 inches, staying true to the bike it’s based on, while the rear is a 16-incher, embracing proper bobber proportions.
2 reasons to look elsewhere
1. Not as comfortable as the Classic.
The Goan Classic 350’s seating position, combined with the tall ape-hanger handlebars, means you sit more upright than on the standard Classic. While comfortable, this also makes you more susceptible to bumps and uneven roads compared to the Classic’s more relaxed posture.
2. Price.
The Goan Classic 350 stands out among the 350cc line-up for its superior fit and finish, quality and distinctive character. This is reflected in its pricing, as it is Royal Enfield’s most expensive 350cc model. Prices start at Rs 2.35 lakh and go up to Rs 2.38 lakh (ex-showroom, Chennai), making it Rs 5,000-8,000 costlier than the top-spec Emerald Chrome Classic 350.
Autocar India News Desk
Rishaad Mody
Vishal Venugopal
Deepak Pachauri
