When Royal Enfield launched the J platform Classic 350, it marked a tectonic shift for the company’s bestselling model. It had a thoroughly modern riding experience that still retained the heritage and character of its predecessor. However, the premium motorcycle landscape in India has changed a lot since then, and to combat the multiple opponents that have launched since, we have exclusively learnt that Royal Enfield will be updating its Classic line-up very soon.
- LED headlight, pilot lamps to come as standard
- Will be available in multiple variants, rear drum brake to continue
- Likely to be mechanically identical to current bike
Royal Enfield Classic 350 update details
The focus of this update will only be to upgrade the feature-set of the Classic 350 and there are likely to be no mechanical changes to the bike. As is the case with the existing Classic 350 line-up, there will be multiple variants on offer and there is likely to be a model with a rear drum brake available on the lower variants. The biggest visual change is likely to be the LED lighting that the updated Classic models will have. The headlight, tail-light and pilot lights will be LED units.
Sales figures for the Royal Enfield Classic 350 have been eaten into by rivals from Honda, Triumph, Harley-Davidson, Hero and Classic Legends. Not to mention its own sibling, the popular Hunter 350. With these updates, Royal Enfield will be aiming to revitalise its bread-and-butter model and claw back some lost ground. The launch of the updated Classic 350 line-up is likely to be held in the first half of August, before the BSA Gold Star 650 makes its way to India.
Currently, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is priced between Rs 1.93 lakh and Rs 2.25 lakh (ex-showroom, Chennai). With the launch of this updated model, it will be interesting to see whether the company hikes prices in the face of increased competition.
Ved Janve
Vishal Venugopal
Dinshaw Magol
