After launching the cheaper variant of Bullet 350 called Bullet X 350, Royal Enfield has now launched a cheaper variant of their best selling motorcycle – the Classic 350. Sales of Classic 350 have declined heavily in recent months. The new cheaper Classic 350 S variant is expected to bring boost in sales.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 S (single-channel) is priced at Rs 1.45 lakh (ex-showroom), a decent Rs 9,000 cheaper than the dual-channel model and Rs 10,000 cheaper than the Jawa single ABS variant.
In addition to adopting rear drum brake instead of disc, the motorcycle also features black finish for the engine and wheels. This way, RE has found a way to reduce the usage of expensive chrome finishes while also aligning the new variant in line with the tastes of younger audience.
The Classic 350 S is currently available in Pure Black and Mercury Silver colour options. As of now, the motorcycle is available only in Tamil Nadu and Kerala but we expect it to be introduced across the nation in the coming months.
There are no other changes to the Classic 350 S whatsoever. The retro classic bike continues to be powered by the long standing 346 cc single-cylinder air/oil-cooled engine which employs a 5-speed gearbox. The power and torque figures stand at 20.1 bhp and 28 Nm respectively.
It is not secret that Royal Enfield is working on next generation modular J platform which will underpin the company’s existing Classic, Bullet and Thunderbird family of motorcycles. The prototypes are out testing in full swing. In addition to new frame, the next gen models will feature all-new BS-VI compliant engines with improved performance, refinement and maintainability. The company has also hired experts to improve quality at multiple levels.
We expect the new low-cost Royal Enfield Classic 350 S variant to migrate to the new platform as and when it is ready sometime early next year. The addition of single-channel ABS model allows the company to make its much sought-after model accessible to wider audience base.
The RE Classic 350 S is pitted against the Jawa 42 which is priced at Rs 1.55 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). So far, Jawa’s inability to meet the delivery deadline is playing well into RE’s hands.
