Few motorcycles carry the kind of emotional weight that the Royal Enfield Bullet does. From the cherished 1980-era machines to the contemporary Classic 350, the Bullet name blends nostalgia with accessible, road-friendly engineering. This article reimagines that story and gives a clear, modern overview for riders and enthusiasts.
History
Design
The modern Royal Enfield Classic 350 deliberately channels the visual cues of older Bullets: a round headlamp, teardrop fuel tank, chrome touches and a comfortable, upright riding posture. Yet beneath the nostalgic exterior, fit and finish, paint quality and manufacturing tolerances are markedly improved compared to decades past. The result is a motorcycle that reads as heritage when parked, and dependable on the road.
Engine
Today’s Classic 350 is powered by a single-cylinder, air-cooled ~349 cc engine engineered to prioritize low-end torque and relaxed cruising. Peak outputs are typically in the neighborhood of 20 bhp with torque figures that make overtaking and steady highway work comfortable — the emphasis is on easy tractable power rather than outright speed. In everyday riding, owners report practical fuel economy in the mid-30s kmpl under mixed use, with variations depending on riding style, load and traffic.
The five-speed gearbox is tuned for smooth shifts and suits both city commutes and longer runs. Because the power delivery is linear and predictable, the Classic 350 is approachable for new riders and satisfying for experienced ones who value character over lap times.
Brakes
Modern Classic 350 models come with disc brakes and dual-channel ABS on most variants, addressing a core safety expectation lacking in older motorcycles. The braking setup provides steady, confidence-inspiring feedback for normal speeds and everyday conditions.
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Suspension tuning is typically on the softer side, with long-travel forks and dual rear shocks designed to soak up poor road surfaces while preserving a composed ride. The upright ergonomics and cushioned saddle reduce fatigue on long rides — a big part of the Bullet’s enduring appeal is that it’s comfortable to ride for hours.
Price
Price points for the Classic 350 vary by market, trim level, color and optional accessories. In general terms, the mid-range pricing places it firmly in the affordable-heritage segment: buyers get a strong visual identity and manageable running costs compared with larger, higher-performance motorcycles. Insurance and maintenance are reasonable for the class; Royal Enfield’s widespread dealer network also helps with parts availability and service convenience.
| Spec | Typical value |
|---|---|
| Engine | ~349 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled |
| Power | ~20 bhp |
| Torque | ~27 Nm (approx.) |
| Transmission | 5-speed gearbox |
| Fuel economy | ~35–37 kmpl (mixed) |
| Safety | Disc brakes + Dual-channel ABS (on many variants) |
Is the Bullet 1980 being re-launched?
There is constant interest and speculation among fans about a formal re-launch of an authentic ’80s-style Bullet. Manufacturers sometimes respond to nostalgic demand with limited editions or retro-styled models that borrow classic details while meeting modern safety and emissions rules. Whether a full re-issue identical to an original 1980 machine will happen remains uncertain; what’s clear is the appetite for classic-feel motorcycles, which the Classic 350 and special editions aim to satisfy.
Buying tips
- Test ride first: The Classic 350’s charm is in its ride feel; a test ride will show whether you enjoy the thump, ergonomics and power delivery.
- Check service history: For older Bullets and second-hand machines, inspect maintenance records and wear items like chain, brakes, and suspension.
- Consider warranty and service plans: Extended warranties or scheduled maintenance packages reduce long-term ownership hassle.
- Join the community: Bullet owners often benefit from active clubs and forums for technical help and sourcing rare parts.