The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is more than just a motorcycle, it symbolizes heritage, power, and timeless design. This machine has won the hearts of riders worldwide with its robust build, vintage aesthetics, and smooth performance. Let’s explore every aspect of this legendary bike, from its design to its performance, features, and real-world riding experience.
Royal Enfield Classic 350
Design and Aesthetics
The Classic 350 carries the old-school charm Royal Enfield is known for. With its teardrop fuel tank, round headlamp, and metal body, it exudes a retro feel. The bike’s chrome accents add to its premium bike’s chrome accents on the road. The attention to detail in every curve and contour speaks volumes about its craftsmanship.
Build Quality and Materials
The Classic 350 is designed to last for decades and is built with a strong steel chassis. Its high-quality paint finish and durable metal parts ensure longevity. Unlike many modern bikes that rely heavily on plastic, this one stays true to its roots with a sturdy metal frame. The seats are well-padded and stitched with precision for added comfort on long rides.
Headlamps and Lighting
The round halogen headlamp enhances its vintage appeal while offering decent illumination. The classic look is retained with a small visor on top of the headlamp unit. The turn indicators are positioned elegantly, complementing the bike’s overall aesthetics. Though LED lighting is becoming a trend, Royal Enfield sticks to the traditional setup to maintain its nostalgic charm.
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Instrument Cluster and Controls
The semi-digital instrument cluster combines modern functionality with old-school design. It includes an analog speedometer with a digital fuel gauge and trip meter. The switchgear feels solid, with tactile buttons that ensure ease of use. The handlebar-mounted controls are within easy reach, adding to the convenience of the rider.
Engine and Performance
Powering the Classic 350 is a 349cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. This unit is designed for smooth and consistent performance, making it a reliable companion for daily commuting and highway cruising. The long-stroke design of the engine delivers excellent low-end torque, ensuring effortless riding.
Power Output and Torque
The engine produces 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. This ensures that the bike has a strong mid-range performance, making overtakes effortless. The power delivery is linear, providing a steady acceleration curve.
Fuel Injection System
With the introduction of fuel injection, the Classic 350 now offers better throttle response and fuel efficiency. This system ensures smoother power delivery while reducing emissions. The refined fuel mapping helps maintain consistent performance across varying riding conditions.
Riding Experience
The Classic 350 is not about aggressive speed, it’s built for relaxed cruising. The engine vibrations are well-controlled setup. The exhaust note is deep and thumpy, giving it that signature Royal Enfield sound that enthusiasts love. Riding this bike through city traffic or open highways feels effortless and enjoyable.
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Suspension and Handling
A well-balanced suspension setup ensures that the Classic 350 handles various terrains with ease. The telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers contribute to a plush ride quality.
Front and Rear Suspension
The front features 41mm telescopic forks with a 130mm travel, offering good shock absorption. At the rear, twin gas-charged shock absorbers with 6-step adjustable preload help in maintaining stability on bumpy roads. This setup makes the bike comfortable even on long journeys.
Braking Performance
Equipped with a 280mm front disc and 240mm rear disc, the braking system provides adequate stopping power. The dual-channel ABS ensures safety by preventing wheel lock-up in emergency situations. The bite and feedback from the brakes inspire confidence in all riding conditions.
Tires and Grip
The bike comes with 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, providing excellent road grip. The tubeless tires offer better puncture resistance and stability on uneven surfaces. Whether on highways or city roads, the Classic 350 maintains firm traction.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Classic 350 is designed to offer maximum comfort, making it suitable for long rides. The upright seating position and wide handlebars ensure a relaxed riding posture.
Seat Design
The seat is well-cushioned, providing excellent support for both the rider and pillion. The split-seat option is available for those who prefer additional pillion comfort. The seat height of 805mm makes it accessible to a wide range of riders.
Handlebar and Footpeg Positioning
The handlebars are positioned at an ideal height, reducing strain on the wrists and shoulders. The forward-set footpegs contribute to a comfortable stance, ensuring that even long-distance rides don’t cause fatigue.
Wind Protection
Though the Classic 350 does not come with a windshield, aftermarket options are available. Riders who frequently cruise at higher speeds can install one for better wind deflection.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
The Classic 350 offers an impressive fuel economy considering its engine size. It provides around 35-40 km/l, making it an efficient choice for both city and highway rides. The 13-liter fuel tank ensures a decent range before needing a refill.
Features and Technology
While the Classic 350 retains its traditional charm, it also includes modern features to enhance the riding experience.
Tripper Navigation System
The bike now comes with an optional Tripper Navigation system, powered by Google Maps. It provides turn-by-turn navigation, making long-distance touring easier.
USB Charging Port
A USB charging port is integrated, allowing riders to charge their devices on the go. This is a useful addition for those who rely on GPS or need to keep their smartphones powered during rides.
Security Features
The Classic 350 is equipped with engine kill switch and side-stand cut-off, ensuring safety. The lockable fuel tank cap and handlebar lock add an extra layer of security.
Variants and Color Options
Royal Enfield offers the Classic 350 in multiple variants and color schemes, catering to different preferences.
- Redditch Series – Inspired by vintage RE models
- Halcyon Series – Classic retro colors
- Signals Edition – Military-themed paint jobs
- Chrome Series – Premium finish with chrome detailing
Price and Availability
The pricing of the Classic 350 varies based on the variant and region. On average, it ranges from ₹1.90 lakh to ₹2.20 lakh (ex-showroom India). The availability depends on dealerships, and waiting periods may vary.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Timeless design with premium build quality
- Smooth and torquey engine performance
- Comfortable ergonomics for long rides
- Reliable braking with dual-channel ABS
- Good fuel efficiency for a 350cc bike
Cons
- Slightly heavy for new riders
- No LED headlamp option
- Windblast at high speeds due to lack of windshield
Conclusion
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 continues to be a top choice for riders who appreciate heritage, comfort, and reliability. Its charm lies in its simplicity, offering a pure riding experience with a nostalgic feel. Whether for daily commutes or long tours, this bike delivers on all fronts. If you are looking for a motorcycle that stands the test of time, the Classic 350 is an excellent investment.
