Royal Enfield Classic 350 – Timeless Style, Modern Engineering
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is not just a motorcycle — it’s an emotion, a legacy, and a lifestyle. With its vintage British-era design and unmistakable thump, the Classic 350 has captured the hearts of millions of Indian motorcyclists for over a decade.
In its new-generation avatar, the Classic 350 combines its retro charm with modern refinement, better ride quality, and enhanced comfort — making it the perfect motorcycle for both nostalgic enthusiasts and today’s long-distance riders.
🛠️ Engine & Performance
The new Classic 350 is built on Royal Enfield’s J-Series platform, the same one used in the Meteor 350. The result is reduced vibration, improved refinement, and more linear power delivery.
- Engine: 349cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled, SOHC
- Maximum Power: 20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm
- Maximum Torque: 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
- Top Speed: ~115 km/h
- Cruising Sweet Spot: 80–90 km/h
The Classic 350 is not a bike meant for speed, but rather for a relaxed, enjoyable ride with strong low-end torque and a smooth, thumpy feel.
⛽ Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Despite its heavyweight build and retro look, the Classic 350 is reasonably fuel-efficient for a 350cc cruiser.
- Claimed Mileage: 35–37 km/l
- Real-World Mileage: 32–36 km/l
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13 liters
- Riding Range: Around 400–450 km on a full tank
Ideal for weekend touring, long rides, or even daily commutes for those who prefer a more commanding ride.
🎨 Design & Styling
Design is the biggest USP of the Classic 350. Its styling hasn’t changed much because it didn’t need to — it’s already a classic.
- Teardrop Fuel Tank with Pinstripes
- Round Headlamp with Chrome Housings
- Classic Single Saddle with Springs (optional split seat)
- Chrome Exhaust & Retro Fenders
- Spoke Wheels or Alloy Wheels (depending on variant)
- Color Options: Halcyon Black, Signals Edition, Redditch Red, Chrome Bronze, Dark Stealth Black, and more
The Classic 350 evokes the spirit of post-war British motorcycles, and every ride feels like a journey through time.
⚙️ Features & Technology
While maintaining its vintage soul, the new Classic 350 packs in several modern upgrades:
- ✅ New Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster – Shows odometer, fuel gauge, trip meter, and Eco indicator
- ✅ Optional Tripper Navigation Pod (on select variants) – Turn-by-turn Google Maps powered via Bluetooth
- ✅ Refined J-Series Engine – Less vibration, smoother ride
- ✅ Electric Start & Kill Switch
- ✅ USB Charging Port (hidden under handlebar)
- ✅ Dual-Channel ABS with Rear Disc (in higher variants)
It’s not feature-rich like sport bikes, but the Classic 350 offers exactly what its riders want — simplicity, comfort, and elegance.
🪑 Ride Comfort & Handling
One of the biggest improvements in the new Classic 350 is ride quality. With a new double-cradle frame and better suspension, it’s more stable, more planted, and easier to control, even for beginners.
- Seat Height: 805 mm – accessible for most Indian riders
- Kerb Weight: 195 kg – heavy but stable
- Suspension:
- Front: 41 mm telescopic forks
- Rear: Twin gas-charged shock absorbers with adjustable preload
- Riding Posture: Upright and relaxed
This makes the Classic 350 ideal for city cruising, highway touring, and pillion rides.
🛑 Braking & Safety
Royal Enfield has significantly improved braking on the newer models:
- Front Brake: 300 mm disc
- Rear Brake: 270 mm disc (in dual disc variants)
- ABS: Single-channel (base) or Dual-channel (higher variants)
- Tyres:
- Front: 100/90 – 19
- Rear: 120/80 – 18
While it’s not designed for aggressive braking or sharp cornering, the Classic 350’s brakes now feel predictable and dependable.
💰 Price & Variants
Royal Enfield offers multiple variants of the Classic 350, differentiated by wheel type (spoke or alloy), paint finish, and ABS setup.
- Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi): ₹1.93 lakh – ₹2.25 lakh
- On-Road Price (Delhi): ₹2.20 lakh – ₹2.60 lakh (depending on variant)
With its customization options and broad variant list, the Classic 350 appeals to a wide audience — from solo tourers to café racer lovers.
✅ Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Timeless, iconic retro styling | Heavier than most bikes in this segment |
| Smooth and refined new J-Series engine | Not performance-oriented |
| Excellent ride comfort and stability | Limited features compared to modern bikes |
| Great low-end torque for city riding | Still lacks a 6th gear |
| Multiple variants and colors to choose from | Rear drum brake in base model |
🔄 Competitors
The Classic 350 competes with:
- Honda CB350 H’ness – More features, equally refined
- Jawa 42 / Jawa Classic – Lighter and peppier engine
- Benelli Imperiale 400 – Bigger engine, heavier price
- Yezdi Roadster – More aggressive design and performance
- Bajaj Avenger 220 – More affordable cruiser alternative
Despite stiff competition, the Classic 350 remains the king of its category, thanks to its brand legacy and broad fanbase.
🏁 Final Verdict
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is more than just a motorcycle — it’s a retro riding experience with modern engineering. With its timeless design, smoother engine, and enhanced comfort, it appeals to those who value character, history, and soulful riding over aggressive performance or flashy tech.
If you’re a rider who dreams of open highways, scenic routes, and long soulful journeys, the Classic 350 is the perfect companion.
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