More stories

  • in

    Upcoming Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser Exhaust Note – New Spy Video

    New Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser. Image – Karthik G.
    Royal Enfield has been testing multiple new prototypes of upcoming models for the near future
    Royal Enfield currently has many test models on-field since it has a whole new lineup to be launched in the coming few months. While the launch cycle has been affected slightly due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the bikemaker has intensified its testing process of all its upcoming models in recent times.
    The 650cc cruiser from Royal Enfield is one such motorcycle that has been frequently spotted over the last few months. Apparently, multiple iterations of this bike are in development, however, the test mule spotted recently was that of a traditional cruiser. New spy video credit to automotive enthusiast Karthik G, captures the bike’s exhaust note.
    While earlier spy shots of the 650cc cruiser wore production-ready body panels, the recent prototype spied wore heavy camouflage with panels that don’t appear to be closer to production. This indicates that the motorcycle might have undergone some changes in its design.
    RE 650 Cruiser Styling?
    As mentioned previously, the overall design draws inspiration from the KX Bobber Concept which made its appearance at the EICMA 2018. Therefore, it receives a low stance of a traditional cruiser with forward set footpegs, a wide handlebar and a low seat which contribute to relaxed riding ergonomics. Other retro-style highlights include a circular headlamp, teardrop-shaped fuel tank and circular rearview mirrors.
    [embedded content]
    The twin exhaust pipes release a very muffled note which is evident in almost every B6 emission Royal Enfield bike. Alloy wheels along with disc brakes on both ends is a given for this segment of motorcycles.
    On taking a closer look at its front end, we can notice a large circular dial in its instrument console accompanied by a small dial which is most likely to be the display for Tripper Navigation.
    Specifications
    The upcoming Royal Enfield 650 cruiser will be powered by a 648cc parallel-twin air-cooled motor that pumps out 47 bhp and 52 Nm of peak torque when paired with a six-speed gearbox. The architecture will be suspended on upside-down USD forks at front and twin shock absorbers at rear which are mounted at a greater angle than what is seen on 650 Twins.
    650cc Cruiser from Royal Enfield will be positioned above the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 in the company line up in India. It is slated to be launched sometime next year and is likely to be priced around Rs 3.5-4 lakh; a premium over the current 650 twins. More

  • in

    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Fully Undisguised – First Look Walkaround

    New Gen Royal Enfield Classic 350. Image – MRD Vlogs
    As per the latest info, the new-gen Royal Enfield Classic 350 will make its debut on August 31, 2021
    Numerous spy shots of the new generation Royal Enfield Classic 350 have been doing the rounds on the internet in recent times which suggest its launch might be around the corner. Test mules of the retro classic motorcycle have been spotted testing on the roads for a very long time which has revealed a few details.
    The latest set of spy pics have revealed another interesting feature about the upcoming new-gen Classic 350. The particular testing prototype was spotted tolling on curved, multi-spoke, dual-tone alloy wheels. These units are different from the one spotted in Signals Edition during a TVC shoot in Rajasthan a few weeks ago.
    Design
    Getting into the details, the new-gen Classic 350 retains its modern retro-style design of the outgoing models with signature elements such as a round halogen headlamp, teardrop-shaped fuel tank with rubber grips, tiger-eyed position lights, etc. The spring under the rider’s saddle in the current Classic is not present in the new model.
    The pillion seat, as usual, is a separate unit and gets an integrated single-piece grab rail. Watch the detailed walkaround video of new gen Classic 350 below, credit to MRD Vlogs.
    [embedded content]
    The tail section gets a round taillamp held in a redesigned housing accompanied by round turn indicators in line with the old-school design philosophy. The circular rearview mirrors are embellished in chrome in this model. The seats also get a ribbed pattern. As mentioned earlier, most of the design of Classic 350 has been retained in the new model.
    Specs & Features
    The major update will be underneath as it gets an all-new J platform also underpinning Meteor 350. The new dual-cradle frame will be suspended on 35mm telescopic forks at front with a travel of 135mm and twin gas-charged shock absorbers with five-step preload adjustability and 80mm travel at rear. Braking duties will be handled by disc brakes on both wheels assisted by a dual-channel ABS as standard.
    It will be powered by the same 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that propels Meteor 350. This engine kicks out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque while paired with a new 5-speed gearbox. The motor is also known to produce much less vibration than its predecessor thanks to the use of a counter-balance shaft.
    The most impressive addition, though, has been the updated instrument cluster which now comes with a Tripper Navigation pod. Tripper Navigation provides turn-by-turn navigation when paired with the Royal Enfield App on the rider’s smartphone via Bluetooth. The console also features an analogue speedometer while the digital display could read out information from an odometer and fuel gauge. More

  • in

    2022 Royal Enfield 650 Cruiser Spied With New Camo Ahead Of Launch

    Royal Enfield 650cc CruiserRoyal Enfield is working on multiple new motorcycles for launch in India – One of them is the 650cc cruiser
    Royal Enfield has plans to launch one new motorcycle every 4 months. In the past 9 months, they have launched Meteor 350, updated Himalayan and the updated 650 Twins. Now, they are getting ready to launch new gen Classic 350 (on 31st Aug), all new Hunter 350 and flagship 650cc cruiser.
    It is this 650cc cruiser that has now been spied. Though this is not the first time this motorcycle has been spied, this time it is seen with a new camouflage. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Karthik G for sharing these spy shots via Rushlane Spylane.
    Royal Enfield 650 Cruiser is expected to be launched sometime next year. This new motorcycle will not only play a major role in enhancing sales, but also help RE with brand building – especially in global market.
    It was at the EICMA 2018 that RE had showcased the KX bobber design concept. Though that was a 800cc+ machine, the upcoming 650cc cruiser does take some design inspiration from that concept.
    Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser
    Design Updates
    RE 650cc cruiser gets an almond shaped fuel tank, a low slung tail section, forward positioned foot pegs and rides on alloy wheels. Tyres will be tubeless. It gets USD forks in the front – a first for Royal Enfield. Braking is via disc brakes at the front and rear with dual channel ABS offered as standard.
    Low mounted silencers, lower ground clearance are also seen on the RE 650 Cruiser. True to its cruiser styling, the RE 650 along with its long wheelbase, will also sport a backrest for the pillion rider, as was seen on earlier test mules. However, this could not be a part of the standard features and may be offered as an accessory.
    Features on offer
    RE650 Cruiser will be one of the most feature-rich Royal Enfield motorcycle ever. As can be seen in the images above, it will get a large speedometer with digital display within. On the side will be tripper navigation pod, that RE has developed in association with Google.
    Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser
    Engine specifications on the 650cc Cruiser would include the same 648 cc twin cylinder engine, which in its current format makes 47 hp power at 7,250 rpm and 57 Nm torque at 5,250 rpm mated to a 6 speed transmission. The RE 650 Cruiser will be the first bike in the company lineup to receive upside-down forks at the front while it could also get tripper navigation which is currently offered on the Meteor 350 and updated Himalayan. The same will also be on offer with the Classic 350 new gen.
    The 650cc Cruiser from Royal Enfield will be positioned above the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 in the company line up in India. It is slated to be priced from around Rs.3.5-4 lakhs. More

  • in

    New Royal Enfield Classic 350 Launch Date 31st Aug – Unofficial Bookings Open

    Image for reference. Credit – Bullet Tower.New Classic 350 will share most of its mechanicals including chassis and engine with Meteor 350
    After a long wait, new-gen Royal Enfield Classic 350 will be available at showrooms soon. It is expected that new Classic 350 will continue to delight users, just like its predecessors. Even though there have been new rivals like Honda CB350, Jawa and Benelli Imperiale 400, Classic 350 continues to lead with a comfortable margin. New-gen Classic 350 will have to take on new rivals including upcoming retro-styled products from Suzuki and Yamaha.
    New-gen Classic 350 design and features
    New Classic 350 continues with the signature retro elements such as round headlamp, tear-drop shaped fuel tank and turn indicators, and broad rear fenders. The motorcycle offers a comfortable riding stance with its mid set foot pegs and ergonomically shaped handlebar. The seats are expected to offer superior comfort. New-gen Classic 350 will be available in both single-seat and dual-seat variants.
    Updated Classic 350 will get new colour options. Based on the theme, the motorcycle could sport a blacked-out look or have chrome-heavy styling. Parts that qualify for chrome finish include the headlamp cowl, turn indicators, handlebar, front and rear suspension, rims, engine and exhaust. Exact details will vary based on the variant and colour.
    In other updates, new Classic 350 gets semi-digital instrument console. It combines an analogue speedometer and a digital display for odometer and fuel indicator. The bike has also been equipped with Tripper navigation system, which displays navigational arrows to the destination. It works when paired with the user’s smartphone via Bluetooth.
    New Gen Royal Enfield Classic 350 Launch Date 31st Aug 2021. Image – Power On Wheel
    New-gen Classic 350 engine and specs
    In terms of performance and ride quality, new Classic 350 will be far superior in comparison to its predecessor. The motorcycle utilizes an entirely new engine and J1D platform. These were first introduced with Meteor 350, which was launched in November last year. The new platform and engine will be used for upcoming new/next-gen 350cc products as well.
    The new 349cc, air-oil cooled, long stroke motor is capable of generating 20.2 bhp of max power at 6100 rpm and 27 Nm of peak torque at 4000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh transmission. The engine is known for its smooth power delivery and adequate amount of bottom-end torque. With the use of a counter balance shaft, engine vibrations have been reduced significantly.
    New platform for Classic 350 comprises twin downtube spine frame integrated with telescopic forks at front and twin tube emulsion rear shock absorbers. The motorcycle is expected to get option of disc-drum (with single channel ABS) or disc brakes at both ends (with dual-channel ABS).
    Launch date of the new gen RE C350 is set for 31st Aug, 2021. Ahead of that, unofficial bookings have opened at select dealerships for a payment of Rs 10-20k – depending on the dealer. Official bookings have not opened yet. More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Continental GT Electric Motorcycle – Powered By Saietta

    Royal Enfield Electric Motorcycle
    Climate change objectives can be achieved faster with conversion of existing vehicles to electric
    It’s good to know that electric two-wheelers are registering greater acceptability among users. However, sales of new electric scooters alone may take a long time to achieve the goal of 100% electric ecosystem. One also needs to focus on millions of fossil-fuel powered two-wheelers that continue to pollute the environment. The need of the hour is dedicated conversion kits that can be produced on a mass scale, are affordable and can be easily fitted in existing two-wheelers.
    Saietta electric motor for Continental GT
    UK-based Saietta Group specializes in developing electric drive systems for electric vehicles (EVs). It has come up with an electric motor that can be fitted directly onto Royal Enfield Continental GT. A number of tests are currently underway to assess overall performance and viability of converted Continental GT.
    Royal Enfield Electric Motorcycle
    The company has plans to mass-produce the motors, once everything has been fine-tuned and perfected. These motors will also be distributed to Indian OEMs through Padmini VNA. The latter is a leading manufacturer of advanced auto components.
    It is to note that Royal Enfield is in the process of developing its own range of electric motorcycles. These will continue to use the retro theme that can be seen on existing Royal Enfield motorcycles. However, it’s not certain when exactly these motorcycles will be launched. It’s also not certain if Royal Enfield will be able to dominate the electric segment, just as it does in 350cc to 650cc segment. It will be interesting to see how the king of thump performs in a green, silent world.
    [embedded content]
    Hero Xtreme electric motor
    Targeting the commuter segment, Saietta has converted a Hero Xtreme with an electric motor. This too has been equipped with a swappable battery system. As compared to charging an electric two-wheeler, a swapping ecosystem offers multiple benefits.
    Hero Xtreme Electric Motorcycle
    Batteries can be swapped within seconds whereas charging can take several minutes even with fast charger. Another benefit is that customers don’t have to invest in buying the battery. They just need to pay for using the battery, which works out much cheaper.
    From a design perspective, it is obvious that converted Continental GT and Hero Xtreme will need some sort of a body kit. In their current form, the motorcycles come across as a work-in-progress unit.
    Hero Xtreme Electric Motorcycle
    Existing users of these motorcycles are unlikely to make the switch to electric until the visual shortcomings are take care of. Even though the motor is an innovative work and pioneering move by Saietta, one cannot completely ignore aesthetics associated with a motorcycle. More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Spied Again – New Look Front And Rear

    Image – Fast Bikes India / InstagramRoyal Enfield is working on an all new motorcycle which will likely be styled as a scrambler
    After successful launch of Meteor 350, Royal Enfield will soon be introducing another new product in 350cc segment. It could be launched as ‘Hunter’, a name that was earlier registered by the company.
    Royal Enfield Hunter design
    Hunter does continue using the signature retro styling that Royal Enfield motorcycles are known for. That’s evident in features such as circular headlamp, round rear view mirrors and tear drop fuel tank.
    However, the rest of the design is quite different from the current breed of Royal Enfield motorcycles. Hunter is relatively compact and has some unique features such as stubby exhaust, sleek seat design and short tail. Hunter also has a lower seat design as compared to exiting Royal Enfield motorcycles.
    As some of these design aspects are entirely new for a Royal Enfield motorcycle, it has led to speculations that Hunter could be targeted at female bikers. Things like lower seat height and compact design would certainly be advantageous for female users. As the community of female bikers is on the rise in the country, the possibility of Royal Enfield launching a dedicated product for them could not be entirely denied.
    Royal Enfield Hunter 350
    Royal Enfield Hunter engine and specs
    To minimize development costs, Hunter will borrow key components from recently launched Meteor 350. It will have the new J series 349 cc, air-oil cooled motor that is capable of generating max power of 20.2 hp and peak toque of 27 Nm. The engine comes mated to a 5-speed gearbox. With an SOHC setup, the new engine is a lot smoother and responsive, as compared to its predecessor. Vibrations have also reduced significantly with the new engine.
    Hunter is expected to get Tripper navigation, a segment-first feature introduced with Meteor 350. It comprises a dedicated display screen that shows navigational directions for the destination. Tripper system works in combination with Royal Enfield app and Google Maps.
    Launch of Hunter and other new products is part of the company’s strategy to introduce a new model almost every three months for the next seven years. Royal Enfield dominates the 200cc – 500cc segment with a market share of more than 85%. These new models will help the company to maintain its supremacy and possibly boost sales even further.
    By expanding its product portfolio, Royal Enfield will be able to target a much larger customer base. It will also help the company to fend off competition from new products launched by rival two-wheeler manufacturers such as Honda, Jawa, and Benelli. With the cult-like following for its motorcycles, coupled with an extended range of new products and next-gen models, Royal Enfield is at an advantageous position to dominate this decade.
    Source More

  • in

    Royal Enfield July 2021 Sales – Classic 350, Meteor, Bullet, 650 Twins

    Image – Bullet TowerRoyal Enfield is getting ready to launch updated Classic 350 this month – New gen version of their best selling motorcycle in India
    In July 2021, Royal Enfield reported total sales of 44,038 units. YoY growth is reported at 9 percent, up from 40,334 units. Volume growth stood at under 4k units. Exports almost doubled, up at 4,748 units from 2,409 units.
    350cc Top Gainer
    The 350cc segment continues to be a strong performer. Sales is up at 37,556 units, up from 36,384 units at 3 percent growth. In this segment, Royal Enfield offers the Classic, Meteor, Bullet and Electra. The above 350cc segment grew to 6,482 units, up from 3,950 units. Volume growth stood at just over 2.5k units. In this segment, RE offers 650 Twins and the Himalayan.
    Royal Enfield Sales July 2021
    MoM total sales is up from 43,048 units at 2.30 percent growth. Volume growth stood at just under a grand. MoM exports fell by about a third, down from 7,233 units at volume decline of just under 2.5k units.
    MoM domestic sales growth is reported at 9.7 percent, up from 35,815 units at volume growth of 3,475 units. 350 cc MoM sales was stable. In the above 350cc segment, growth is reported at 11.95 percent, up from 5,790 units at volume growth of 692 units.
    Royal Enfield Sales July 2021
    Royal Enfield sees its efforts to steady the ship bearing fruit. The past 15 months have been difficult for the world, more-so for the Indian auto industry. As the country prepped for Covid-19 pandemic, a complete lockdown was announced in late March last year. And this many months later, auto manufacturers are still picking up the pieces. In the meantime there have been good months, and lean months.
    Efforts To Tackle Covid-19
    Royal Enfield has introduced ‘Home Test Ride’ ‘Online Booking’ facility and recently also launched ‘Service on Wheels’. The Chennai based bike maker has also brought in ‘Contactless Purchase and Service Experience’ so as to enable customers to buy their favourite bike without stepping out of the safe confines of their home.
    Home Test Rides allows for customers to visit the company website, select their most preferred vehicle and get a test ride of their desired RE motorcycle at home. Online booking then permits the buyer to visit the official website, select the motorcycle variants, colour options and view the accessories and have a look at the bike with all these selections prior to making an online booking. The buyers are then linked to the nearest dealership for further interaction with regard to completion of payment formalities while the motorcycle is then delivered to the buyer’s doorstep.
    Service on Wheels is another initiative introduced by the company in view of social distancing so as to prevent the customer from visiting a service center. This contactless service initiative sees a host of modified motorcycles specially fitted to carry all tools, equipment and spares so as to undertake upto 90 percent of all service and repair requirements at the owner’s homes.
    This service is available at all dealerships from July while those desiring can also avail of pick up and drop service facility. While these are some of the initiative introduced by the company immediately following the lockdown, there would be more customer centric offers and services introduced in the days ahead for a better customer experience. More

  • in

    2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan New Variant Leaks Via Clay Model

    2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan. Image – Nikhil Renunathan (@69_thewanderlust)Besides the road-biased Himalayan, Royal Enfield is also developing a new Himalayan with a more powerful 650cc parallel-twin motor
    Towards the end of last year, Royal Enfield claimed that it will be launching one model every quarter for the next four years here on. The company has been testing prototypes for upcoming new models round the clock throughout the year. This indicates that the bikemaker has plenty on its plate to cover.
    Recently, another updated test mule was caught on camera. This prototype is likely to be a road-biased version of Himalayan. Now, another image of this variant has gone viral which brings its design to light. This prototype of road-focused Himalayan is a clay model and shares a lot in common with the current off-road capable Himalayan.
    2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan – Updated Styling & Features
    While the overall design is more or less similar, the new model also features noticeable styling variations which makes it distinct. For instance, the upcoming road-biased model misses out on a large windscreen. Also, Himalayan’s signature exoskeleton has made way for newly designed tank shrouds. Further, tank shrouds are seen imprinted with ‘411’ signifying that it will continue to be powered by the same engine.
    Like the test mule spotted earlier, this clay model stood on a smaller 19-inch front wheel. The regular Himalayan gets a 21-inch front wheel. Both modes however get similar wire-spoked rims shod by block pattern, dual-purpose tyres. The tail section also seems to be redesigned with the relative positioning of its taillamp and rear turn indicators appearing slightly different from the current bike. It also misses out on its signature luggage rack.
    2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan New Variant Clay Model Leaks.
    Another interesting piece of difference is that the road-biased model gets revised front and rear mudguards. It also misses out on a traditional beak-like fender as seen in the current Himalayan. A redesigned headlight mask has been added for a cleaner look. It is also being speculated that Royal Enfield will be offering a slightly smaller and simpler instrument console in this road-biased Himalayan which will include Tripper Navigation as well.
    Less Components, More Value
    Additionally, the tail section also gets a new grab handle and a new single-piece seat. The recently spied test mule did not feature fork gaiters which this clay prototype features. In a similar manner, the clay model did not showcase side pannier boxes which were spotted in the testing prototype previously. This suggests that these components are more likely to be offered as optional add-ons from the official accessories package.
    With components such as the windscreen and luggage rack removed, a simpler instrument cluster and a smaller front wheel on offer, this road-biased version of Himalayan could be more affordable than the current model on sale. This would make it accessible to a larger section of consumers.
    As mentioned earlier, this new road-biased Himalayan will likely be powered by the same 411cc single-cylinder air-cooled SOHC that returns an output of 24.3 bhp and 32 Nm of peak torque. There might be a little tweak to its suspension setup which would focus more towards on-road dynamics.
    IMAGE SOURCE More