Royal Enfield has announced that its manufacturing operations across Thiruvottiyur, Oragadam and Vallam Vadagal facilities will remain shut between Thursday, 13 May 2021 and Sunday, 16 May 2021. During this period, the company will undertake maintenance activities at its factories.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Meteor Touring Screen Fits Perfectly on Honda H’ness

Royal Enfield has also said that considering the local lockdowns across states and Union Territories impacting retail operations, it does not foresee any significant impact of temporarily halting production on its ability to fulfil the demand. However, the company will continue to monitor the situation closely and take appropriate actions as the situation progresses; and in line with the directives being issued by the government and administrative authorities.

Royal Enfield teams are focused on ensuring support for employees and communities around its facilities. The company has issued advisories to all dealerships in India to adhere to local regulations and follow local administrative orders, as may apply. All other employees across Royal Enfield's offices, including corporate offices in Chennai and Gurgaon, continue to work from home until further notice.

Royal Enfield is not the only automobile company to shut down its manufacturing facilities in light of the second wave of the deadly coronavirus. Earlier this month, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. (HMSI) had also announced that it will temporarily halt the production operations across all its four manufacturing plants in the country (from 1st May to 15th May 2021).

In other news, expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia even further, Royal Enfield has started its operations in Singapore. It has set up a new flagship store at Ubi road.

For more Royal Enfield news and other two-wheeler updates, stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com.

Expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia even further, Royal Enfield has now entered Singapore. The oldest continuous-production motorcycle manufacturer in the world will reach out to its customers in the city-state via its new flagship store located at Ubi road. The outlet showcases multiple Royal Enfield motorcycles, unfortunately, the Meteor 350 isn’t one of them as of now. The showroom, however, has a complete range of the brand’s apparel, riding gear, and genuine accessories for its models.

Also Read: Watch US Rider Review Royal Enfield Himalayan - VIDEO

Royal Enfield is expanding aggressively across Asia as it aims to tap into the world’s biggest motorcycle market after India. The company now operates in several countries in the region including Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines. In Thailand, RE has 36 showrooms and plans to open a new factory which would be the second overseas plant for the company after its manufacturing facility in Argentina. Royal Enfield’s Thailand plant would be a hub for exports to other countries in Asia.

In the last few years, Royal Enfield has started its operations in several ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries including Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia. With the brand’s major share of sales coming from India, which is the world’s biggest market for motorcycles, Royal Enfield will be increasingly looking to expand its presence in other strong motorcycle markets in the region.

In other news, Royal Enfield had filed a trademark application for the moniker “Royal Enfield Shotgun”. The application was submitted online in April 2021. While any further details about the same are unavailable at the moment, speculations say that the company could be planning to use this name for its upcoming 650cc Cruiser.

For more Royal Enfield news and other two-wheeler updates, stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com.

In the video, the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 owner shares that he hasn’t been able to pay much attention to his motorcycle’s chain for the last month. He has noticed that the chain has become hard and also contains rust marks. Hence, he visits a motorcycle garage that provides an unconventional chain lubrication method.

Also Read: Watch Royal Enfield Bullet 500 Being Ridden on Scenic Twisty Road

To use this chain lubrication technique, the mechanic removes the chain from the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 and cleans it properly. Meanwhile, another mechanic attends a metal box. Inside the box, there’s liquefied grease and an arrangement to implement heat using electricity. The increase in temperature melts the grease.

The cleaned chain of the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 is placed inside the box with the help of a metal wire. It is completely submerged into the liquefied grease. The lid is closed and the electrical connection to the box is provided. After around 20 minutes, the chain is removed from the box and put aside to cool down. The melted grease seeps deep into the linkages and later solidifies, thus, lubing the chain thoroughly.

The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 owners tells that he notices a huge difference in his motorcycle’s ride quality after getting this treatment done. It almost feels like a brand-new chain-sprocket set is installed. He also shares that the particular device used for lubricating his chain is almost 25 years old. Hence, it isn’t a new technology rather a very old-school method that is not practised widely now.

How do you lube your motorcycle’s chain? Have you ever used or come across this lubrication method? Let us know in the comments below.

For more such interesting stories, keep checking IndianAutosBlog.com.

We can see in the footage that the route on which the Royal Enfield Bullet 500 is being ridden is, indeed, breathtaking. We’re quite sure that most of the motorcyclists out there would love to take this fantastic road on their beloved machines. However, apart from the picturesque view, what amazes us is the raw sound of the Bullet 500 that has been captured in the video. It feels like there’s an aftermarket exhaust slapped on as the note is louder than the usual but not too loud to become annoying. We can also hear some pops and bangs while the rider is rev-matching and downshifting.

Also Read: New Royal Enfield Classic 350 Instrument Console Detailed in Video

While the speedometer of the Royal Enfield Bullet 500 isn’t crystal clear in the footage, we reckon that during some parts of the road, the retro-styled motorcycle managed to achieve triple-digit speeds which in itself is quite commendable, isn’t it? We can say that this particular model has been very well maintained by the owner. To jog up your memory, the Bullet 500 runs on a 499cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine. While it might not impress you with its power output, it generates tarmac-ripping torque. The motor is capable of producing 27.2bhp of max power at 5250rpm and 41.3Nm of peak torque at 4000rpm.

In other news, the new Royal Enfield Classic 350 has been recently spotted testing once again. It has been undergoing road tests for quite a while now and should be launched in India in the near future.

For more such interesting stories, keep checking IndianAutosBlog.com.

The video has been recorded on the world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge located in San Francisco, USA. We can see in the footage that the Royal Enfield Bullet 500 rider joins the road that leads to the bridge and spots two Harley-Davidson motorcycles cruising down the same path. There’s no doubt that the American-made bikes are much more powerful than the Bullet 500 but the rider still gives a try to see if he can keep up with them.

Also Read: Watch 650cc Royal Enfield Cruiser Coasting at 120-130km/h

As the video progresses, we can see that Royal Enfield Bullet 500 rider doing triple-digit speeds. While the speedometer of the motorcycle isn’t crystal clear in the footage, we reckon that the retro-styled two-wheeler is running above 110-120km/h, which is quite commendable, don’t you think? We can also hear the beautiful exhaust note of that, most likely, aftermarket pipe.

The Royal Enfield Bullet 500 uses a 499cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine which pumps out 27.2bhp of max power at 5250rpm. The peak torque of 41.3Nm is generated at 4000rpm. With the help of these figures, the rider eventually overtakes the Harleys, although it seems that they slowed down a bit to allow him to catch up!

In other news, the Chennai-based company is said to be working on multiple models, including a cruiser, based on the highly successful 650cc platform. It’s being anticipated that there could be a Royal Enfield Meteor 650 and Classic 650 under development.

For more such interesting stories, keep checking IndianAutosBlog.com.

Probably, to achieve that, Royal Enfield Riders Club has been announced which will make its debut from the European market. So, what’s exactly it is all about and why should it be launched in India, too?

Royal Enfield Riders Club of Europe

As the name suggests, it is a special and official club for Royal Enfield enthusiasts. Its goal is to bring Royal Enfield riders together as a community. Its members will get access to exclusive rides, brand experiences, events, training, and national and international tours. They will also be entitled to a few perks, like VIP access to shows and events, but only when it's safe to organise and attend such events in the post-Covid world.

How to Join?

For existing Royal Enfield owners, the first year of membership with the Riders Club will be free, and all members will receive a gift at the time of their joining. To sign up, they need to log on to the Royal Enfield Riders Club of Europe through the brand’s official website. Future owners will receive the option to sign up for the Riders Club when purchasing a new Royal Enfield motorcycle.

Why Should it be Launched in India, too?

India is one of the biggest markets for Royal Enfield. The brand has already got a gigantic fan following in the country. Opening an exclusive club for existing, new, and future Royal Enfield owners would indeed help the brand grow more as a community.

In many cities, most of the Royal Enfield Brand Stores are already in the habit of creating certain WhatsApp groups with RE owners as members. Information regarding local rides is shared on them. With the official Royal Enfield Riders Club, things would take place on a much higher scale and in a more organised fashion, thus, bringing the Royal Enfield riders together. Like-minded people would be able to become a part of several interesting activities and events, including exclusive rides.

What are your views about the Royal Enfield Riders Club? Do you think it should be launched for the Indian market, too? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Speaking about the Royal Enfield Riders Club of Europe, Arun Gopal, Head of Business Markets, EMEA, said:

At Royal Enfield, we're all about our riders - they are the real custodians of the brand. For everything that we do as a company; from the motorcycles that we develop to the entire brand ecosystem, we carefully curate, we put the end rider at the core of our thinking. We appreciate that riders come in many forms and different guises; the purists, the adventure tourers, the retro bike enthusiasts or the everyday commuters that seek self-reliance and convenience. However, what unites them all is a yearning to get out and ride. We love motorcycling in its purest form, it binds and grounds us, and we welcome anyone into our world. We're excited to write the next chapter of Royal Enfield's enduring story, and we envision the Riders Club of Europe to be an integral part of this for many years to come.

For more such interesting stories, keep checking IndianAutosBlog.com.

Now with the price hike, the starting price of the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 BS6 has become INR 1.27 lakh*. Even then, it continues to be the most affordable Royal Enfield motorcycle available in the country at the moment. Apart from the price, no other changes have been implemented. The specs and features of the Bullet 350 remain the same.

The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 BS6 has two variants - Standard and ES (Electric Start). The former is available 4 colour options whereas the latter has 3 paint schemes. All the models are powered by a 346cc single-cylinder engine which comes equipped with a fuel injection system for precise throttle response and improved performance and fuel economy. This air-cooled motor is capable of producing 19.1 bhp of maximum power at 5,250 rpm and 28 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm and is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

Also Read: Royal Enfield competes in its first American Flat Track race with Twins FT

Some of the key features of the Bullet 350 BS6 include:

• Round headlight with a chrome mask
• Tiny fog lamps on either side of the headlamp
• Chrome exhaust
• Classic rearview mirrors
• 35 mm telescopic front forks and 5-step preload-adjustable twin rear shock absorbers
• 280 mm front disc brake and a 153 mm rear drum brake
• Single-channel ABS

For more Royal Enfield news and other two-wheeler updates, stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com.

*Ex-showroom, Delhi

Royal Enfield has 59 dealer stores and 25 studio stores in Kerela. On the auspicious day of Onam, the Chennai-based company delivered 1000 Royal Enfield bikes to the customers across the entire state through its stores. The motorcycles included Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, Bullet, and more.

Royal Enfield’s current product line-up in India consists of the 650 Twins, Bullet, Classic, and Himalayan. Soon, there will be a new motorcycle added to this list and that is going to be the Royal Enfield Meteor 350. The launch of the Thunderbird successor is due for many months now. It is being speculated that Royal Enfield will finally introduce the all-new Meteor 350 next month.

The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 will be the company’s first motorcycle to be based on its all-new 350cc platform which consists of a brand-new 350cc engine, gearbox, double-cradle chassis and frame. Thanks to the leaked brochure, several details of the upcoming motorcycle have been revealed. For example, the Meteor 350 will have 3 variants - Fireball, Stellar, and Supernova - and all of them will have the Tripper Navigation feature as standard. The company will provide a total of 7 colour choices with the new bike.

Also Read: Classic 500 Tribute Black marks the end of 500cc Royal Enfield bikes in the UK

In other news, a new twin-cylinder Royal Enfield Cruiser has been spotted testing for the first time. It is likely to use the same 650cc engine that has been fitted in the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. The spied prototype appears to be in the later stages of development and thus, perhaps, the 650cc Royal Enfield Cruiser might be introduced in the first quarter of 2021.

For more Royal Enfield news and other two-wheeler updates, stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com.

Royal Enfield and CEAT Tyres have joined hands for the first time with a campaign on Friendship Day to strengthen their bond.

Commenting on this association, Mr Amit Tolani, Chief Marketing Officer, CEAT Tyres, said:

We have a strong and long-standing relationship with Royal Enfield and what better occasion than Friendship Day to affirm our partnership? Royal Enfield and CEAT are celebrating the long journeys together and the inimitable bond that they share on-road and off-road.

The Chennai-based two-wheeler manufacturer uses CEAT tyres in several of its models including the Royal Enfield Classic 350, which was the company’s first BS6 vehicle to be launched in India, Royal Enfield Bullet, and Royal Enfield Himalayan. Established in 1958, CEAT Tyres produces over 15 million tyres a year and offers the widest range of tyres to all segments and manufactures world-class radials for heavy-duty trucks and buses, light commercial vehicles, earthmovers, forklifts, tractors, trailers, cars, motorcycles and scooters as well as auto-rickshaws.

With CEAT tyres, bikes like the Himalayan get the required amount of grip and support they need to perform to their fullest and enhance the overall riding and ownership experience for the customers of both Royal Enfield and CEAT Tyres.

Also Read: Modified Royal Enfield Himalayan fitted with a turbocharger makes 50PS [Video]

In other news, Royal Enfield has announced its new Service on Wheels initiative for its customers in India. Under this programme, the company has deployed 800 units of purpose-built Royal Enfield bikes (based on the Royal Enfield Trials 350) across its widespread dealership network in the country to provide motorcycle servicing to customers at their doorsteps.

The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 BS6 has two variants - Standard and ES (Electric Start). The Standard variant is available 4 colour options - Black, Forest Green, Bullet Silver and Onyx Black. At the time of the launch, the Bullet Silver and Onyx Black colour options retailed at INR 1,21,583* whereas the Black and Forest Green colour options were priced at INR 1,27,750*. On the other hand, the Bullet 350 ES BS6 is available in 3 colour options - Jet Black, Regal Red and Royal Blue. The ES variant had a sticker price of INR 1,37,194*. Royal Enfield has now hiked the prices of all the Bullet 350 BS6 configurations.

Even after the price hike, the Bullet 350 BS6 continues to be the most affordable Royal Enfield bike available in the country right now.

The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 BS6 uses a revised 346 cc single-cylinder engine that has fuel injection. This mill churns out 19.1 BHP of maximum power at 5,250 rpm and 28 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm and is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

Some of the key features of the Bullet 350 BS6 include:

• Round headlight with a chrome mask
• Tiny fog lamps on either side of the headlamp
• Chrome exhaust
• Classic rearview mirrors
• 35 mm telescopic front forks and 5-step preload-adjustable twin rear shock absorbers
• 280 mm front disc brake and a 153 mm rear drum brake
• Single-channel ABS

Also Read: Royal Enfield offers worth INR 10,000 announced for new bikes

Apart from the Bullet 350 BS6, the Royal Enfield Himalayan BS6 has also received a price hike.

For more Royal Enfield news and other two-wheeler updates, stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com.

*Ex-showroom, Delhi

Royal Enfield Bullet 350 BS6 Specs

The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 BS6 is powered by an upgraded 346 cc single-cylinder engine with a fuel-injection system. This revised engine produces 19.1 BHP of maximum power at 5,250 rpm and 28 Nm of peak torque at 4000 rpm. The transmission here is the familiar 5-speed unit. To comply with the stricter BS6 emission norms, the Bullet 350 BS6 has a bigger cat-con located in the exhaust header pipe. It is easily visible and perhaps, is one of the elements that help in differentiating between the Bullet 350's BS4 and BS6 models.

Royal Enfield Bullet 350 BS6 Features

The new Bullet 350 BS6 doesn’t include any extra goodies. Like the BS4 version, it has round headlight with a chrome mask, tiny fog lamps on either side of the headlamp, single-piece tubular handlebar, single-piece seat, chrome exhaust, classic rearview mirrors, etc.

Even the cycle parts are unchanged. 35 mm telescopic forks and 5-step preload-adjustable twin shock absorbers handle the suspension duties at the front and rear respectively. The braking setup includes a 280 mm front disc with a 2-piston brake calliper and a 153 mm drum brake at the rear. There is also a single-channel ABS.

Also Read: Production-ready Royal Enfield Meteor 350 leaked, to be launched soon

Royal Enfiled Bullet 350 BS6 Colours, Variants, and Prices

The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 BS6 is available in two variants - Standard and ES (Electric Start). The Standard variant has four colour options - Black, Forest Green, Bullet Silver and Onyx Black. The Silver and Onyx Black colour options retail at INR 1,21,583* whereas the Black and Forest Green colour options have been priced at INR 1,27,750*. On the other hand, the Bullet 350 ES BS6 is available in three colour options - Jet Black, Regal Red and Royal Blue - and all of them cost the same - INR 1,37,194*.

For more Royal Enfield news and other two-wheeler updates, stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com.

*Ex-showroom, Delhi

The new BS6 regulations are so tight that the transition isn't feasible for every model. There are three Royal Enfield discontinued models, including Royal Enfield Bullet 500, Royal Enfield Classic 500, Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500. Following are the top 10 bikes that will be axed this month:

1. Royal Enfield Bullet 500

Rumours about Royal Enfield putting a full stop to the production of its 500 cc motorcycles started emerging in late 2019. In January 2020, these rumours turned out to be true when the Chennai-based two-wheeler manufacturer announced the discontinuation.

The first Royal Enfield discontinued model is the Royal Enfield Bullet 500, which has a 499 cc single-cylinder Unit Construction Engine. The UCE 500 powerplant was first introduced in the Bullet 500 back in 2008. This air-cooled engine delivers 27.2 BHP of maximum power at 5,250 rpm and 41.3 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. It is paired with a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox. The braking setup includes disc brakes with dual-channel ABS.

2. Royal Enfield Classic 500

The next Royal Enfield discontinued model is another 500 cc motorcycle that won’t make it to the BS6 era is the Classic 500. It is one of the most popular Royal Enfield bikes globally. The company announced a Classic 500 Tribute Black limited edition model to formally bid adieu to its 500 cc engine in January. The Classic 500 is powered by the same 499 cc UCE powerplant as the Bullet 500.

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 BS6 model was the brand’s first BS6 model to be launched in India. Royal Enfield is also working on next-gen Classic models.

3. Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500

The Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 was one of the top choices of enthusiasts looking for a rock-solid and powerful cruiser. With a relaxed riding posture and cruiser-like appearance, t managed to bring a smile on many faces. And for those who wanted a sportier motorcycle, Royal Enfield had the Thunderbird 500X. The engine of these motorcycles was the familiar 499 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled mill, and it was mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

Royal Enfield is working on a Thunderbird successor that goes by the name Meteor. Various prototypes of the same have been spotted recently. It is being anticipated that the Royal Enfield Meteor will be launched in India sometime in mid-2020.

4. Honda CBR 250R

Honda’s only offering in the 250 cc segment in India is the Honda CBR 250R. Launched back in March 2011, the CBR 250R successfully transitioned from BS3 to BS4 in 2008. Unfortunately, Honda decided to end the CBR 250R’s journey now. The Honda VFR 1200F-inspired quarter-litre sports bike didn’t get any major design or style updates in its entire lifetime.

Powering the CBR250R is a 249.60 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with 4 valves and a DOHC setup. It produces 19.5 kW or 26.5 PS of maximum power at 8,500 rpm and 22.9 Nm of peak torque at 7,000 rpm. With Honda’s PGM-Fi system, the CBR250R has a crisp and precise throttle response. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.

5. Yamaha Saluto RX

With the Saluto RX, Yamaha tried to grip the 110 cc commuter segment in India. The Saluto RX was launched in 2016. Later, it was updated and UBS (Unified Braking System) was included. It is powered by a 110 cc, 4-stroke, 2-valve, single-cylinder engine with Yamaha’s Blue Core technology. It produces 7.48 PS of maximum power and 8.5 Nm of peak torque. However, the Saluto RX didn’t garner the sales figure Yamaha was hoping it would. It is priced at INR 53,080 (ex-showroom Delhi).

6. Yamaha Saluto 125

The Yamaha Saluto 125 is the elder sibling of the Yamaha Saluto RX. In terms of looks and style, the Saluto 125 is very similar to the Saluto RX. However, there are a few differences. For example, the Saluto 125 comes with clear lens side turn signals, different graphics, wider rear grab rail, etc. Also, as the name suggests, it has a bigger, 125 cc single-cylinder engine with SOHC and Yamaha’s Blue Core technology. This engine produces 8.3 PS of maximum power and 10.1 Nm of peak torque. The Saluto 125 retails at INR 61,580 (ex-showroom, Delhi) in the disc brake variant.

7. Yamaha Fazer 25

Earlier this month, Yamaha made an announcement suggesting that it has completed its BS6 transition. The Japanese brand released a list of products that have made it through the conversion process. The Yamaha Fazer 25 wasn’t in that list. This could mean that the quarter-litre Fazer will be discontinued this month.

The Yamaha Fazer 25 features a 249 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine with a SOHC setup and a fuel-injection system. This engine is capable of producing 20.9 PS of max power and 20 Nm of peak torque and is coupled to a 5-speed gearbox. It is the same engine that used to power the Yamaha FZ 25 BS4, whose BS6 version has already been launched. The Yamaha Fazer 25 is costs INR 1.44 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

8. Yamaha R3 (could be relaunched later)

The old Yamaha R3, priced at INR 3.52 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), will no longer be available after the end of this month. The R3 has a BS4-compliant 321 cc parallel-twin engine which produces 42 PS and 29.6 Nm. It is known for its smooth and rev-happy engine and brilliant performance.

Internationally, the old Yamaha R3 was replaced by the facelifted version which in 2018. Yamaha has tweaked the R3 to make it much sportier with the mid-cycle refresh.

Some of the new Yamaha R3's key features are Yamaha YZR-M1 MotoGP bike inspired design, twin-LED headlight set up, faux RAM air intake, digital instrument cluster, etc. Maybe the plan is to launch this bike in India directly with a BS6 engine later this year.

9. KTM 790 Duke (will be relaunched later)

The KTM 790 Duke was launched in India in September 2019. Only 100 units of the Scalpel was made available for the Indian market. The bike offers good performance and comes equipped with some of the best safety features available in the segment, like Bosch Cornering ABS with a Supermoto mode, Lean-angle-dependant traction control, etc.

The 799 cc parallel-twin engine of the KTM 790 Duke that produces 105 BHP and 86 Nm is BS4-compliant. It will be upgraded to BS6 later this year.

10. Suzuki Hayabusa

The legendary Suzuki Hayabusa has been permanently discontinued in the Indian market. A BS6 version of the current generation model isn't planned. The Suzuki Hayabusa BS4 costs INR 13.80 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai). It is known for its utmost performance. It has a massive 1,340 cc 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which produces a whopping 197 BHP of power and 155 Nm of torque. No wonder why it is one of the fastest motorcycles in the world.

For more such featured stories, stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com.

Dealer sources have told us that the base model of the BS-VI Bullet 350 will cost INR 1,40,500* whereas the Standard variant will set you back by INR 1,47,500*. And if we talk about the range-topping Electric Start variant, that will cost INR 1,57,500*.

Compared to the outgoing BS-IV Bullet 350, the BS-VI Bullet 350 would be very similar in terms of looks, styling, and design. In fact, it is being anticipated that the list of features will be more or less the same and the only change will be the engine.

The BS-VI Bullet 350 will have the same 346 cc single-cylinder engine that we have seen in the BS-IV model. However, to meet the more stringent BS-VI emission norms, it will have gone through a handful of changes. For example, Royal Enfield will have replaced the carburettor with a fuel-injection system which will not only help to reduce the output of the harmful emissions but also improve the throttle response and fuel efficiency of the motorcycle. Also, the company would have added a bigger cat-con in the bike’s exhaust system.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Bullet transformed into a poor man’s Harley-Davidson Fat Boy [Video]

In the BS-IV state of tune, the 346 cc engine of the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 produces 19.8 BHP of max power and 28 Nm of peak torque. It is being anticipated that the power of the BS-VI version could be marginally less powerful but deliver the same amount of torque.

In other news, Royal Enfield plans to launch a new motorcycle codenamed J1D next month.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Royal Enfield updates and more two-wheeler news.

*On-road, Delhi

This time we have come across a poor man’s Harley-Davidson Fat Boy which was originally a Royal Enfield Bullet. A Delhi-based motorcycle customisation shop took the opportunity and modified the Bullet into a Fat Boy and that too quite nicely.

By looking at this custom build, it is clear that a lot of time, skill, and money has been put into it. The attention to detail is commendable. So much so that it is very hard to recognise the original bike this project is actually based on, a Royal Enfield Bullet.

A plethora of different parts have been installed to ensure that this modified Bullet looks as similar to the original Harley-Davidson Fat Boy as possible. For example, the front end of this custom build features an aftermarket single-pod full-LED headlamp with LED DRLs. Front fork covers have been installed to give them a beefier look. The handlebar has been replaced for a more cruiser-like riding posture.

The design of the fuel tank is different and has various chrome elements mounted on it. A fully-digital instrument console has been placed on the fuel tank as well. To achieve the cruiser-like low-profile stance, it seems that the frame of the motorcycle has been modified as well.

Also, while the original engine of the Bullet has been kept unchanged, it has been packed inside a casing which resembles that of the V-twin engine of the actual Harley-Davidson Fat Boy. Dual-exhaust pipes have been installed, too, but we think that one of them is just for the aesthetics. The original 2020 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy is available in two engine options - Milwaukee-Eight 107 and Milwaukee-Eight 114, which produce 144 Nm and 156 Nm of peak torque respectively.

Also Read: Enthusiast converts a Yamaha FZ into a Yamaha RX100

Some of the other custom parts used in the build include a fat 200 mm section rear tyre, relocated licence plate holder, side turn signals, redesigned footpegs ND different alloy wheels. Overall, the entire project looks quite well-executed. What do you guys think? Let us know in the comments section below.

[Source: YouTube]

Some Royal Enfield dealerships have also started accepting pre-bookings for the BS-VI Bullet 350 unofficially. So, interested people can reserve one for themselves by paying a token amount of INR 10,000.

If we talk about the changes in the upcoming 2020 BS-VI Bullet 350, the biggest one will be the engine. It would be the same 346 cc single-cylinder engine but now compliant with the more stringent, BS-VI emission norms that will be enforced in the country on 1 April 2020.

In its BS-IV state of tune, the engine produces 19.8 BHP of max power and 28 Nm of peak torque. It is being said that the power of the BS-VI version could be marginally lower whereas the torque would be the same.

There have been various speculations about Royal Enfield introducing a new colour option for the Bullet 350 with the BS-VI version. As per our dealer sources, the base or standard variant of the bike will not get any new paint schemes, perhaps to keep the prices in check. However, there’s a possibility that the company might introduce a new colour scheme with the top-end ES variant with dual-channel ABS, and maybe it could be the Forest Green colour of the Bullet 500 which has been discontinued.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Meteor name confirmed by test mule rider on record [Video]

The prices of the BS-VI Royal Enfield Bullet 350 aren't out yet but we wouldn’t be surprised to see them being around INR 10,000 to INR 15,000 higher than the BS-IV model's prices. For reference, the BS-IV version is priced from INR 1.22 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Royal Enfield will stop selling the 500 cc variants of the Classic, Bullet and Thunderbird by 31 March 2020. The company will not revise its 500 cc engine to meet the upcoming BS-VI emission norms.

Each of the Royal Enfield Classic 500 Tribute Black will carry a hallmark commemorative ‘End of Build’ serial numbered plaque making it unique to its owner. The UCE (Unit Construction Engine) 500 powerplant was first introduced in the Royal Enfield Bullet 500 way back in 2008. The Royal Enfield Classic 500 Tribute Black will be sold online on 10 February 2020 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Also Read: Next-gen Royal Enfield Classic with optional accessories spied

This is not the first time that Royal Enfield is selling limited-edition motorcycles online and if the track record is taken into account, the new commemorative edition is expected to be sold out in a matter of minutes if not seconds.

The Royal Enfield Classic 500 Tribute Black Limited Edition motorcycles will bear the iconic pin-strip seen in the original Classic 500 launched in 2009. For the first time, the company will have a dual-tone scheme on the fuel tank with fenders carrying glossy black and matt black.

Also Read: BS-VI Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350 production begins, to be launched soon

Powering the Royal Enfield Classic 500 Tribute Black Limited Edition is the same 499 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, twin-spark, fuel-injected engine. Coupled to a 5-speed gearbox, the engine produces 27.58 PS of power and 41.3 Nm of torque. The motorcycle weighs 196 kg (wet) and has a 135 mm ground clearance.

Royal Enfield will continue to sell the 500 cc variants of its motorcycles in the international markets even after 31 March 2020. It has also confirmed that existing customers of 500 cc Royal Enfield motorcycles will be able to get service and spares at all touchpoints of the company across India.

Also Read: BS-VI Royal Enfield Himalayan launched in India

Also Read: BS-IV Royal Enfield Interceptor INT 650 and Continental GT 650 dispatches stopped

Regular followers would know that a report from November last year started the talks of discontinuation of the Royal Enfield 500 series. The source report quoted people close to the developments, stating that the 500 cc engine powered motorcycles are ‘unviable for the domestic market’.

The 350 cc range accounts for the majority of the sales, while the 500 cc models account for a very negligible share. Moreover, the new 650 cc range – the Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650 – are delivering promising sales performance (domestic and exports), and thus, retaining 500 cc range may not be the most popular opinion.

If you have been following our website, you would know that Royal Enfield's year-on-year sales performance in the domestic market has been negative. At the same time, exports started showing positive performance since late 2018, which incidentally is the same time when the new 650 Twins were introduced.

In other updates, the company has launched its first BS-VI compliant motorcycle, the BS-VI Classic 350, in the domestic market, and the bookings for the motorcycle have begun at the dealerships. The online bookings for the BS-VI Royal Enfiled Classic 350 are yet to begin. In fact, the company has not listed the BS-VI model on its website yet. The BS-VI Classic 350 features new colour options and a few updates to the instrument cluster. The updated model is available from INR 1,65,025*.

Check out the complete price list below:

The Chennai-based two-wheeler brand has also released a teaser video for the BS-VI Himalayan, and the motorcycle should be launched in our market very soon. An updated, BS-VI Thunderbird 350 could also arrive soon.

Also Read: Specially commissioned Royal Enfield Himalayan Sleet gets gloss finish

On the other hand, the company is testing its next-generation models that will use Royal Enfield’s new architecture. The next-generation model range will reportedly arrive by mid-2020.

*Ex-showroom Mumbai

Also Read: BS-VI 2020 Royal Enfield Himalayan with updated instrumentation spied

The new motorcycle is codenamed J1C. Apart from a lighter build, the new motorcycle will also carry a lower seat height, which would make it more accessible to shorter riders. A spokesperson told The Economic Times:

While we cannot comment about future product line-ups, we can confirm that at Royal Enfield, we assign huge focus on keeping our motorcycles accessible and approachable to all, in an endeavour to bring more people to experience pure leisure motorcycling.

The source report further adds that about 7-8% of the existing Royal Enfield volumes are contributed by women buyers. The new product would help the two-wheeler brand to clock better sales, especially in places like Goa, Chandigarh, Maharashtra, Kerala and Karnataka. According to the Road Transport Year Book 2016, Goa (23%) has the highest ratio of licences issued to women, followed by Chandigarh (18.47%) and Maharashtra (18.28%).

The new product should help the two-wheeler brand to secure better sales numbers than the current levels. Regular followers would know that Royal Enfield has been suffering from lacklustre sales in the domestic market. The exports, however, are doing commendably well since December last year, which incidentally is the same period when Royal Enfield launched the Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650.

Apart from introducing new products, Royal Enfield also aims to improve its sales by delivering a better ownership experience, through its Ride Sure extended warranty program. The new Ride Sure program brings an additional two-year warranty over the standard two-year coverage. Thus, buyers who opt for the new program will get a four-year/50,000 km warranty* on their bikes. The more premium package of the Ride Sure program also offers unlimited free replacement of brake pads, brake shoes and cables for four years or 50,000 km*.

*Whichever comes before

Also Read: Next-gen Royal Enfield Thunderbird spied in detail

In other updates, Royal Enfield is working on its next-generation models that are expected to arrive in mid-2020.

[Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com]