The Royal Enfield 350 and 500 Trials, the scrambler derivatives of the regular Classic variants, have been in the news ever since they were spotted testing in India last year. Royal Enfield has been going through a rough patch of late due to a slow down in growth rate after a long time. The highly successful entry of Jawa Motorcycles didn’t help its case either. With the introduction of Trials variants, RE would be hoping to bring back some of the lost attention.
Thanks to a teaser video, it is now revealed that the Royal Enfield 350 and 500 Trials are scheduled to be launched on March 27. The estimated prices are around Rs 1.9 lakhs and 2.3 lakhs respectively. The Trials variants are essentially accessorized versions of the popular Classic 350 and 500. They duo pay homage to the original Trials scrambler which was on sale roughly half a century ago.
Like the original model, the new Trials variants feature spoke wheels with dual-purpose tyres, an up-swept exhaust canister, high-mounted rear mudguard, and a luggage rack in place of pillion seat. It is to be noted that, in the international markets, the Classic 350 and 500 variants can be converted into Trials by merely accessorizing them at the dealer level.
The leaked pictures and spyshots reveal that the soon-to-be-launched Royal Enfield Trials will receive chrome color themes, contrast paint job for the chassis (red for 350 and green for 500), headlamp protector, new RE logo which is seen on the 650 Twins, rubber gaiters on the front fork, chrome finished mirrors, etc. The suspension, powertrain, and braking system appear to be carried over from the Classic variants without any changes. The Trials variants are most likely to receive dual-channel ABS as standard fitment.
Royal Enfield 350 and 500 Trials are expected to be introduced as limited edition models at first. In the recent past, the company has been highly successful in selling its limited edition offerings and the Trials shouldn’t be any different. If they are successful, they might be converted into regular models.
In other news, Royal Enfield is working on a comprehensive plan to maintain its stronghold of the medium-displacement segment. The plan includes development of next generation platform for 300-400 cc motorcycles, having a holistic approach on quality, improving after sales experience, etc.
