Royal Enfield

Credit – Nitin Autoroids
Classic 350 is the most preferred cruiser motorcycle in the country and the primary volumes and revenue generator for Royal Enfield

However, just like everything else, it is not completely perfect. One issue that has often been pointed out is the significant vibration that the motorcycle generates. This issue has acquired even more prominence in recent times, as rivals like Jawa and recently launched Honda CB350 seem to be doing relatively better in terms of vibration.
Is Meteor 350 vibration free?
To take on rivals and meet evolving customer expectations, Royal Enfield recently launched its Meteor 350 motorcycle. This is the first of the several next-gen products that the company will introduce in the coming years.
While Meteor 350 comes with a long list of features, the basic thing that many people want to know is whether the vibration issue has been fixed. The answer to that is quite clear in this video uploaded on YouTube.
While a vibration meter would have provided scientifically verifiable evidence, this test utilizes a more basic tool – a glass of water. However, this test methodology seems quite effective in comparing vibrations coming from two motorcycles. A plastic glass has been used in this test, which is more sensitive to vibrations as compared to other materials such as metal or glass.
[embedded content]
When kept on Meteor 350 rear seat (with the engine on), the glass of water creates just a few ripples on the surface. There is no movement of the glass or water drops bouncing off the surface. When the engine is revved up, the vibrations seem to be even lower. The test is then carried out on the front seat with similar results.
Things change dramatically on Classic 350, as the glass of water kept on the rear seat starts to move as soon as the engine is started. When revved up, the glass takes just a few seconds to move and fall from the motorcycle. This clearly shows that Meteor 350 has significantly less vibration, as compared to Classic 350.
Reasons for low vibrations on Meteor 350
There are several factors that have helped reduce vibrations on Meteor 350. The motorcycle utilizes an entirely new J series platform and completely new engine with SOHC setup that generates smooth tractable power. The engine is also equipped with a counter balancer that minimizes vibrations.
Another factor is the enhanced chassis setup, which is stiffer, more durable and stronger. High specification suspension and improved seat cushioning could also contribute to low vibration on Meteor 350.
With close to zero vibrations, Meteor 350 will be a lot more enjoyable on long journeys. Royal Enfield will also update its other products including Classic and Bullet with the new engine and chassis. Features like integrated Bluetooth powered navigation system are also expected to be offered as standard with several next-gen Royal Enfield motorcycles. More

Royal Enfield Meteor 350 tested across India, Spain and the UK.
The video describes what changes and improvements have been made on Meteor 350 over the older Thunderbird 350

Biking enthusiasts, especially Royal Enfield fans had been waiting for Meteor 350 with bated breath and its launch earlier last week sent the automotive industry into a frenzy. The cruiser replaces the outgoing Thunderbird model from Royal Enfield’s portfolio and has generally received a positive response from across the industry.
While everyone is singing praises for the new bike, it is important for readers to know what went into development of the mid-segment cruiser. A team of leading technicians and engineers explain in a video released by Royal Enfield on its official Youtube channel, the development process and special attributes of Meteor 350.
Updates on Meteor 350
Meteor 350 has rightly been described as a progression and evolution from the outgoing Thunderbird as the Royal Enfield team had the exact thing in mind while developing the Meteor 350. Essentially Meteor 350 is the next generation of Thunderbird 350 with a brand new engine, chassis and subtle updates to design. This fact can also be established when one rides the Meteor and Thunderbird back to back.
The development team consists of technicians, engineers and designers from various countries, with the new bike jointly developed and tested in Spain, the United Kingdom and India. Take a look at the video below.
[embedded content]
The video features inputs from following people;– Mark Wells, Head, Product Strategy & Development– Simon Warburton, Head, Product Strategy & Development– Chittaranjan Gogoi, Industrial Design– Anuj Dua, Product Strategy– James Young, Engine Development– Takashi Yamamoto, Head, Electronic Management System– Martin Neczaj, Chassis Design– S Sivakumar, Head, Industrial Design– Matthew Cardenas, Product Manager, Tripper Navigation
Improvements made
Even though most of its components are brand new and designed from scratch, it still retains most of Royal Enfield’s signature elements such as its characteristic exhaust thump and its road presence. The new engine though slightly low on torque than the previous generation 350cc engine has a wider torque band of 1000 rpm which makes it provides the essential low-end and mid-range thrust thus providing a comfortable ride in city as well as highway conditions.
What the extra 1000 rpm of peak torque also does is reduce vibrations on the bike considerably which makes it easier to cruise at slightly higher speeds. The rake angle incorporated is optimised both for city commute as well as long-distance cruising.
For the first time, Royal Enfield is also providing mass customisation for its customers through the brand’s ‘Make It Yours’ program from where the owners can choose from thousands of components and accessories to make their Meteor look exclusive.
Other Details
Royal Meteor 350 is the first bike from the retro classic motorcycle brand to be based on an all-new J platform which is set to underpin future models as well. The company also incorporated a brand new 349cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, long-stroke engine which makes 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. It is available in three variants namely- Fireball, Stellar and Supernova and is offered at a starting price of Rs 1.75 lakh (ex-showroom). More

RE Meteor 350 Supernova Blue
Royal Enfield Meteor 350 cruiser motorcycle replaces the Thunderbird 350 in company line-up

The upcoming launch from Royal Enfield is the new Meteor 350. This cruiser bike has been spied on test on numerous occasions and images have also been leaked online telling us a lot of what is in store. Launch date was initially set for earlier this year but the COVID-19 pandemic threw a spanner in the works, delaying launch by a few months.
With launch set for later today, 6th November, the motorcycles have arrived at dealer showrooms. Thanks to which, multiple first look and walkaround videos of the new Meteor 350 have hit the web. Here are few such videos from MRD Vlogs, DSD Cars and Shaik Raunaq Fardeen; which details the top of the line Supernova Meteor 350 as well as other variants of the RE M350.
[embedded content]
Variants and Colour Options
The new Meteor 350 will be positioned on an all new ‘J’ platform. This will result in comparatively lower weight, higher level of agility and thanks to high set handle bars, will also offer the rider a more comfortable and upright seating position. The Meteor 350 will be offered in three variants of Fireball, Stellar, and Supernova. Each variant will be differently equipped with specific colour choices.
The Fireball will be the most affordable variant. It will come in with two solid gloss colours of Fireball Red and Fireball Yellow and will receive sporty decals and all other parts finished in gloss black as it misses out on chrome accents seen on the other two variants. RE Meteor Fireball will sport ‘Royal Enfield and ‘Meteor 350’ stickers in place of 3D logos and will get a colour coded fuel tank with matching rim stickers.
[embedded content]
The Stellar variant gets colour options of Stellar red (metallic gloss), Stellar Black (matte) and Stellar Blue (metallic gloss). It receives body coloured panels, chrome accents on handle bars, fuel cover and exhaust while for added rider comfort it will sport a back rest.
The Stellar variant receives a premium appeal with its chrome finished exhaust, fuel injector cover and handlebars while 3D badging will see be seen on fuel tank and side panels. Its features also include a windscreen and it will ride on machine finished alloy wheels.
[embedded content]
Colour options for the top of the line Supernova variant will be dual tone shades of Supernova Brown and Supernova Blue. It gets a more premium finish as compared to the other two variants with a revised seat cover, cushioned back rest, windscreen and chrome finished indicators.
RE Meteor 350 – Engine Specs
The RE Meteor 350 engine specifications were also leaked earlier. It is slated to be powered by a 350cc, single cylinder engine offering 20.2 hp power and 27 Nm torque mated to a 6 speed gearbox. It will be a long stroke engine delivering torque at lower rpms and a low thump exhaust sound. The engine will be capable of lower emissions and instant acceleration resulting in an easier riding experience both in city and on highways.
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 which will be positioned above the Classic 350 and Himalayan in the company lineup could be priced between Rs.1.60-1.80 lakhs. It will rival the likes of Honda CB350, Jawa 300 and Benelli Imperiale 400. More

Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Exhaust Sound
In a yet another leak of Royal Enfield Meteor 350, exhaust sound has been fully revealed

Just when you thought that there could be no more leaks about the Royal Enfield Meteor 350, there comes yet another leak. This has been the story of Meteor 350 till now, a leaky affair – pun not intended. Except the price, everything else about this motorcycle has been already leaked.
This at a time when a rival brand managed to launch a product in such a manner that almost no one had an idea what they were launching till the last minute.
Yes, we are talking about the Honda CB350; whose launch to delivery start process was so sudden; that this was probably the reason behind Meteor 350 launch getting delayed to 5th November, instead of earlier planned launch in Sep 2020.
Meteor 350 Exhaust Sound
Anyways, coming back to Meteor 350 and its leaks. The latest leaked video gives a walkaround of the motorcycle. In addition, it also reveals the exhaust sound of the motorcycle – at idle as well as while revving to higher engine rpms. Take a look at the video by GreenFish TV.
[embedded content]
The Meteor 350 Supernova variant in the video is seen in dual tone finish of Brown and Black. The exhaust sound at idle has the iconic thump, for which the Royal Enfield motorcycles are known. But when the throttle is turned and revs are increased; it seems that the thump disappears and what you get is a motorcycle sound like most single cylinder motorcycles – and without the thump.
Thump Missing At Higher Revs
Royal Enfield motorcycle exhaust sound had the thump because of the push-rod engine setup along with longer stroke. Now with the new gen engines on board the Meteor 350; it is reported that the push-rod setup is no more. Instead, what is employed is most likely an SOHC setup and shorter strokes.

What this does is reduces the vibrations and delivers a much smoother ride experience. It also delivers better performance and throttle response. But at the same time, has probably caused reduce in the thump effect at higher revs. Will this disappoint RE fans and buyers, only time will tell.
New Gen Engine and Chassis
The upcoming Meteor 350 and Classic 350 is based on the Chennai-based motorcycle brand’s new ‘J’ architecture. This means the overall mechanical packaging would be slightly different from the current model.
From the spy images, it is evident that the 2020 Royal Enfield Meteor BS6 gets a redesigned headlamp unit, an updated semi-digital instrument cluster and a reworked handlebar design. Towards the rear, the fender and tail lamp have undergone changes as well. The split-seat configuration has been tweaked a bit to provide better ergonomics and pillion comfort.
Owing to the mechanical changes required to cut down emissions, the engine casing is noticeably different from the current UCE unit. To improve efficiency, new FI system is employed. The engine misses the kicker as well. Overall, the changes are subtle to the eye, but well-rounded to provide a better riding experience. Price of Meteor 350 will be revealed at launch on 6th Nov. Exp price range is Rs 1.6-1.8 lakh, ex-sh. More

Credit – Neelesh Bajaj
Meteor 350 is all set to be launched in India on 6th Nov at an expected price tag of Rs 1.7 lakhs, ex-sh

The successor to Thunderbird range, Royal Enfield Meteor 350 will be launched on November 6. A retro cruiser, Meteor 350 is distinguishable with its round halogen headlamp, LED DRLs, raised handlebars and forward-set footpegs. It will be offered in three variants – Fireball, Stellar and Supernova.
Meteor will be utilizing an entirely new ‘J’ platform and a 349 cc single cylinder, air cooled engine. Power and torque output are 20.5 hp and 27 Nm. Engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. A rival to the recently launched Honda H’ness CB350, Meteor 350 is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 1.60 lakh to Rs 1.80 lakh, ex-sh.
Meteor 350 RTO Registration
Ahead of the actual launch, now an image of the Meteor 350 has surfaced with an RTO registered number plate. When checked with the RTO website, the bike is registered with Delhi RTO. Owner name is mentioned as Eicher Motors. Registration date mentioned is 22 Sep 2020 and validity is up to 21st Sep 2035.
This is actually around the same time when the bike was originally planned for launch. But then Honda CB350 came into the picture out of nowhere, and RE’s Meteor launch plans were derailed.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350 RTO registered.
The above motorcycle is probably a media test ride unit. Ahead of launch this week, Royal Enfield has started media test rides across major cities of India. First ride reviews of Meteor 350 will be out on the same day of launch.
Meteor 350 engine and chassis
As revealed earlier, Meteor 350 will have an entirely new 349 cc, single cylinder, air cooled, FI engine. As compared to the earlier unit that had push-rod actuated valves, the new engine will have an SOHC (single overhead cam) setup. The new engine will deliver slightly more power and it will be smoother, as compared to the current BS6 350 cc engine that powers Royal Enfield motorcycles.
The new engine is capable of delivering 20.2 bhp of max power at 6100 rpm and 27 Nm of max torque at 4000 rpm. That’s around 1 bhp more than the current engine. However, torque output has gone down by 1 Nm. The new engine will be mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
Among other key changes, Meteor 350 will be utilizing the entirely new J platform. This platform will also be used for several other next-gen products that Royal Enfield will launch in the future.
It is expected that Meteor 350 will be competitively priced in the range of Rs 1.60 lakh to Rs 1.80 lakh, ex-sh. It will rival the likes of Honda CB350, Jawa 300 and Benelli Imperiale 400. More

Image – Aung
Royal Enfield’s Oct 2020 total sales including exports stood at 66,891 units – a decline of over 7%

As the world awaits Royal Enfield Meteor 350 launch scheduled on November 6, 2020, the manufacturer has reported October 2020 sales. Albeit at a decline, the manufacturer has reported MoM sales gain.
Total sales including exports amount to 66,891 units, down 7 percent from 71,964 units reported a year earlier. Exports fell 9 percent to 4,033 units from 4,426 units.
Disruptions in global business logistics have played some part in this, and a recovery is expected as business operations ease. Royal Enfield is committed to exports in the mid-segment, and has been increasing export destinations in recent months.
Domestic Sales
Domestic sales fell to 62,858, down 6.9 percent from 67,538 units sold in October 2019. In the up to 350cc segment, sales stood at 60,467 units, down 6 percent from 64,257 units. The segment is Royal Enfield’s stronghold for decades at an end.
Royal Enfield Sales Oct 2020
For now though Royal Enfield is building on its classic appeal in the segment. It already has the Himalayan to do what Classic can’t.?? 6,424 units were sold in the segment above 350 cc (Himalayan, ). Segment sales contracted by 17 percent, down from 7,707 units sold in October 2019.
And the company is now set to introduce yet another segment offering with Meteor 350. Though launch was expected last month, it’s still in time for the ongoing festive season. Pre-booking numbers are available at the moment. ?
Battle For 200-500cc Segment
The mid-size segment has seen growing interest not just from potential buyers, and has seen manufacturers step up to the game. It’s also a segment that’s dear to Royal Enfield, and the brand would need to diversify as an opportunity presents itself to ensure little chunks of the segment aren’t snatched from it. Currently, RE has a market share of 81% in the 200-500cc segment motorcycles in India.
??While Royal Enfield has for long enjoyed the classic and retro tag in the 350 segment, the cc range as a whole has seen a range of new offerings from manufacturers in recent years. While this doesn’t pose a sales challenge for RE, it does recognise the fact that there are those who would buy a mid-segment bike, and this number though small, is growing. Honda CB350 launched last month is however a direct RE Classic 350 cc competitor.
Honda is selling CB350 DLX at Rs 1.85 lakh and DLX Pro at Rs 1.9 lakh at its Big Wing dealerships. Considering, the number of such dealerships are limited for now, Honda two wheelers is quickly remedying that by inaugurating more such dealerships. Jawa and Jawa 42 pose a small challenge to RE. Total Jawa retail sales in September 2020 was reported at 2,121 units. There’s also the Benelli Imperiale 400. Other mid segment plays include the BMW twins, Apache 310, and a range of KTM and Duke bikes. More