The next-generation Royal Enfield Classic has been spotted on test again, showing the motorcycle on the move, and giving us a look at the bike’s front, side and rear. Further, the pictures confirm all the changes the previous spy shots revealed, and give us a clearer view of the upcoming model.
The mechanical and cosmetic changes on the upcoming motorcycle come as welcome additions – during the last couple of years, the bike has only got new colour schemes. One of the biggest mechanical changes to the Classic range only came recently in the form of a rear disc brake and dual-channel ABS.
These pictures – like the earlier set – show that the all-new Classic 350 is equipped with front and rear disc brakes on the right-hand side, instead of on the left like the current model. This change has resulted in the chain shifting over to the left from the right. The switch could very well be to accommodate a revised engine and drivetrain. While most of the engine looks identical to the one on the current Classic bikes, it's likely that it comes with revised internals. It also looks like the next-generation will not have the option of a kick-start.
It also remains to be seen whether Royal Enfield will retain the 350cc and 500cc configurations, but initially, we believe that the Classic bikes will be offered with the same engine displacements. The bike is seen with a new transmission casing as well. Given how close we are to the BS6 norms coming into effect, it's highly likely that the fuel-injected engine will comply with the upcoming emission norms. The motorcycle also has a new exhaust system, further indicating that this could be the all-new BS6 model that is running a reworked engine and exhaust setup.
Also visible in the image is the new dual-cradle frame in place of the single-down tube one seen on the current model. We also saw this frame on the spy shots of the upcoming, next-gen Thunderbird model. This frame mounts the engine in a different way and Royal Enfield could also use rubber mounts in order to reduce vibrations; however, that remains to be seen.
The bike in the images continues to run the retro fenders, though it has ditched the large tail-light and number housing for a sleeker unit. The tail-light could be an LED unit and also appears to have a new chrome bezel. Another cosmetic change is the redesigned rear seat that now has rounded edges. The grab rail also appears to be raised, which we expect has been done in order to make it more ergonomic. The test mule in the image also appears to be equipped with the chrome mirrors and silver bar-ends from the Interceptor 650.
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
