Royal Enfield has announced that it will be undertaking what it calls as a “proactive field service action” to sort a brake system related issue in its Bullet and Bullet Electra models. The voluntary recall which involves replacement of faulty brake caliper bolt covers the aforementioned models manufactured between 20th March 2019 and 30th April 2019.
Around 7,000 motorcycles are affected by the recall. Explaining the recall, the retro classic bike maker stated that the caliper bolt, as supplied by its vendor, is found not to maintain proper torque as required by the company standards on few motorcycles. The bolt which holds the caliper and brake hose is a critical component of the braking system. A failure of this bolt could potentially be disastrous.
Owners of the affected motorcycles will be contacted by the Royal Enfield dealerships and the replacement would be done free of cost. Measures are also being taken to avoid similar issues in the future.
The Royal Enfield Bullet is available in 350 and 500 avatars. The Bullet 350 is powered by a 346 cc single-cylinder twin-spark air-cooled engine which is tuned to produce 19.8 hp and 28 Nm of torque. The range-topping Bullet 500 employs a 499 cc fuel-injected air-cooled single-cylinder mill which dishes out 27.2 hp and 41.2 Nm of torque. Both models come with 5-speed gearbox.
Royal Enfield recently introduced the Trials Works Replica of both 350 and 500 models with special color themes and additional chrome accents. It is unclear if the Trials Works Replica models are also covered by the recall campaign.
All the Bullet variants are now equipped with 280 mm front disc with 2-piston calipers. While the 350 makes do with single-channel ABS with rear drum brake, the 500 sports dual-channel unit with disc at the rear as well. Prices for the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 ABS starts at INR 1.21 lakhs (ex-showroom) while the Bullet 500 ABS retails for INR 1.87 lakhs (ex-showroom).
Royal Enfield is currently working on its next generation platform which will underpin the future versions of its mainstream models. The new products are expected to be ready with BS-VI engines before the April 1, 2020 deadline. Improved product quality and reduced maintenance are RE’s key areas of focus for the next generation models.
