Royal Enfield Bullet 350

From being the choice of steed for the Indian Army and police in 1955 to gradually seeping into common people’s garages, the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 has developed a cult following in India that doesn’t seem to fade away anytime soon. It is the oldest running production motorcycle in the world, can you imagine? Some of its traits like the characterful thump, the sense of solidity, and the simple yet evergreen design continue to strike a chord with classic bike enthusiasts even today. 

Now, the Chennai-based brand has rolled out the new-generation Bullet 350 to keep its unmatched legacy alive while delivering a more finished and modern riding experience. But with RE changing almost everything in the motorcycle, does it have the same charm, the same allure, and the same timeless elegance as the original Bullet? We try to answer this by spending some time with the motorcycle.

Royal Enfield has intently worked on keeping the overall stance and silhouette of the new Bullet as close to the previous model as possible. So, it boasts of the same no-nonsense yet likable design that is quintessentially retro. While it looks almost identical to the Classic, setting it apart are the golden pinstripes on the fuel tank and side panels, a squared-off rear fender and the single-piece seat with a ribbed pattern. While I deeply adore the design, I feel RE should’ve retained the boxy tail lamp and made the rear fender more angular and longer to give the Bullet a stronger visual identity of its own.

The motorcycle is available in three different colour variants; the one you see in these pictures is the top-end Black and Gold trim which maintains an all-black theme throughout. RE purists might prefer the more affordable variants which boast of chrome-finished engine casing. 

Before listing down the upgrades in the new Bullet, it’s important to know that the bike is mechanically almost identical to the new Classic 350, except for a different handlebar and seat and a few other visual elements. Even the dimensions like the ground clearance and seat height are the same as the Classic. 

Powering the bike is the new 349cc, air/oil-cooled engine that makes 20.2bhp and 27Nm and comes mated to a five-speed gearbox. This motor holds on to a twin downtube chassis, as opposed to the previous single downtube frame. Damping duties are handled by thicker 41mm telescopic forks with 130mm of travel and dual springs at the rear. However, it continues to ride on a 19-18-inch spoke wheel combination. The stopping power comes from a single disc at both ends with dual-channel ABS in the higher two variants. The cheapest trim, meanwhile, gets a rear drum brake. 

Royal Enfield has also equipped the bike with a more densely cushioned seat for better comfort. In terms of features, the new model is significantly more modern with a USB charging port, hazard lights, and a semi-digital console. Just like the Classic 350, the new Bullet can be equipped with an optional  tripper navigation system.

Chugging along effortlessly at 50kmph of speed in fifth gear with the characterful ‘dug, dug, dug’ sound for company. This is the kind of riding experience the Bullet has forever been admired for. And the new model does that, and much more, with aplomb. The engine has an impressive amount of low and mid-range torque which makes it an effortless and stress-free city riding tool. Even if you’re in a gear higher for a given speed, a slight twist of the throttle pulls the bike ahead briskly and executing overtakes is easy. This is accompanied by a slick-shifting gearbox which is crisper than the older Bullet. The clutch, however, is heavy and could be bothersome to use while riding in dense traffic for a long time. 

As you go faster on the highway, the refinement of the new 349cc engine truly shines as there are negligible vibrations. Even if you riding between 80-100kmph, there’s just a slight buzz on the fuel tank which never gets bothersome. And overtaking, although takes some time, is always doable on dropping a gear. All of this is accompanied by a thumping exhaust sound which is less clattery but deeper and bassier than the older Bullet. 

Another highlight of the new Bullet is its ride quality. Although it’s not outright cushy, the front and rear suspension iron out minor dips and crests like a charm at any given speed. It’s only the sharper undulations that are felt at the back but not to the extent of sending a nasty jolt. Apart from the suspension tuning, even the large 19-18-inch wheel combination aids in rolling over obstacles with ease. Adding to the comfort is the upright riding stance with a cushy seat that not only contributes to shock absorption but also has enough real estate to accommodate a large-sized individual. 

For changing directions, you need to apply some force on the handlebar. But once it’s leaned over in a corner, it feels composed and predictable and following the intended line isn’t a task. Even the footpegs don’t scrape too early to hamper your cornering experience. However, if you’re in the mood for some left-to-right tomfoolery in traffic, it does require some muscling. As for the brakes, the front disc delivers ample bite to stop this 195kg machine quickly. Even the lever feel is decent. The rear brake, though, could do with a stronger bite. On the positive side, the ABS never feels too intrusive. 

I strongly feel the new Bullet 350 lives up to the strong legacy of the previous generation models. It has all the qualities that the legendary brand stands for – the thumping engine feel, a wide-chested riding stance, and a timeless design. In fact, the new model does everything better than its predecessor with top-notch engine refinement, better acceleration, stronger brakes, comfier ride quality, sturdier build, and more features. 

We also think the Bullet 350 makes more sense than the Classic 350 for those who want a similar riding experience at a more affordable price tag. While both bikes share nearly identical mechanicals, the entry-level variant of the Bullet 350 is Rs 20,000 cheaper than the corresponding trim of the Classic. 

Photography by Kaustubh Gandhi