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  • Royal Enfield Himalayan and 650 Twins Sep 2020 Prices – New vs Old

    After increasing prices of the Classic and Bullet range, RE has increased prices of their Himalayan and 650 range
    Auto entities are working on strategies to make the most of business, especially now with the expectation of improved activity owing to the ongoing festive season. This is all the more necessary considering FY21 started on a note of no activity across the industry.

    With this came deferred decisions including the need to increase product prices, a necessity in the face of increase in input costs. As business continues to pick up, manufacturers have used recent weeks to introduce vehicle prices for the model year line-up.
    Royal Enfield has increased the price of its retro-classic, and also the iconic brand’s adventure tourer. The BS6 compliant Himalayan which was launched in January this year had been initially priced at Rs 1.87 lakh. After upgradation to the latest emission norms, the makers revised price for the first time in May.
    Old vs New Prices
    Himalayan and 650 Twins – Sep 2020 Prices
    Following the current revision in prices, BS6 Himalayan range is now offered at a starting price of Rs 1.91 lakh and goes up to Rs 1.96 lakh depending on the colour one chooses. All prices mentioned are ex-showroom. Colour options include Granite Black, Snow White, Sleet Grey, Gravel Grey, Lake Blue, and Rock Red. With this, Himalayan is pricier by about 1,800 bucks. The periodic price hike doesn’t entail any cosmetic mechanical change and can be attributed to offsetting increasing input costs.
    Himalayan is powered by a 411cc air-cooled, single-cylinder unit that cranks out 24.5 bhp and 32 Nm of torque. Transmission is carried out by a 5-speed gearbox. Recently, the adventure motorcycle was inducted into the Argentinian police. Royal Enfield also inaugurated a new manufacturing facility in Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina.
    Apart from Himalayan, Royal Enfield 650 twins too now cost more, starting at a hike of Rs 1,800 depending on model. While a price hike is inevitable, the manufacturer has had to power through with a reduced product lineup since April 1, 2020 owing to mandated BS6 emission. Also Read – RE Classic, Bullet Prices Sep 2020
    Upcoming RE’s
    Business decisions led to some bikes being discontinued as they were not given a BS6 update. Moving on, the bike manufacturer is geared up to introduce new products. Of its new launches, Meteor 350 is the first new product available, and is ready for launch.
    Alongwith focus on regaining lost ground in the domestic market, Royal Enfield is keen on improving its market share in the international arena, especially where mid-size bikes are concerned. In the segment, apart from the current 650 twins, Royal Enfield is already testing a 650cc cruiser. More

  • BS6 Royal Enfield Classic, Bullet Prices Increased – Ahead of Meteor Launch

    The BS6 compliant Classic 350 and Bullet 350 draw their powers from the same 346cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine
    Royal Enfield has increased the prices of two of its most popular commuter bikes- Bullet 350 and Classic 350. This is the second price revision for both the bikes since the transition from BS4 emission norms to the updated BS6 standards. While the bullet has received a price hike of Rs 2,756 on all its variants, the Classic 350 has witnessed an increment of Rs 1,837.

    This makes both the models about Rs 16,000 dearer to their BS4 counterparts which seems a very steep hike considering these models have not received any sort of upgrades. The BS6 models carry forward the same features and cosmetic elements from the BS4 models as they just tweaked the engine’s emission levels.
    The Bullet 350 is now offered at a starting price of Rs 1.27 lakh and goes up to Rs 1.42 lakh for the top-spec trim. The Classic 350, on the other hand, is offered at a price range of Rs 1.61 lakh and Rs 1.84 lakh. All prices mentioned are ex-showroom. This is not a surprise since almost all models in the recent past have undergone multiple price hikes post the BS6 transition.
    Royal Enfield Bullet 350 and Classic 350 Prices Sep 2020
    Powertrain Details
    The Bullet 350 and Classic 350 are powered by the same 346 cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine which generates 19.2 bhp and 28 Nm of peak torque. The power output is slightly lower than the BS4 model whereas the torque has increased by 1 Nm. This unit is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Both bikes have an increase in their kerb weight by 1 kg due to a larger catalytic converter.
    Despite the price hike, the Classic 350 remains the most affordable retro commuter in its segment which also comprises Benelli Imperiale 400 and Jawa Forty Two. The Bullet 350, on the other hand, competes with the Jawa Classic and is also way cheaper than its Czech counterpart. The Jawa Classic is offered at a starting price of Rs 1.74 lakh whereas the Bullet 350 is available at a starting price of 1.27 lakh. All prices mentioned are ex-showroom.
    Upcoming Launch
    Meteor 350 is replacement to Thunderbird 350X
    The Chennai-based bike manufacturer is currently gearing up to launch the upcoming Meteor 350 which is set to replace the outgoing Thunderbird 350 and Thunderbird 350X. The new cruiser bike will be powered by an all-new 350cc engine under the new ‘UCE350’ range. The upcoming cruiser will be based on an entirely new architecture which is being called ‘J1D’. Most of the details of the bike has already been revealed. The bike is expected to be launched in a few days. More

  • Royal Enfield Twins FT debut at 2020 American Flat Track – Finish 7th

    Royal Enfield created history of sorts by competing in the American Flat Track competition
    Royal Enfield Twins FT Production Twins racer saw the brand compete in its first American Flat Track (AFT) event in production twins class at Williams Grove Speedway in Pennsylvania, USA. The feat was accomplished following months of development and testing. The Royal Enfield Twins FT is a joint effort between Royal Enfield and Moto Anatomy race team, that racer Johnny Lewis owns and operates.
    Team behind the machine

    In the last six months, Johnny’s team worked with Royal Enfield, road racing chassis builder Harris Performance, and engine tuning specialists S&S Cycle. With Lewis getting on track in the weekend’s AFT races, overall focus remains on Twins FT platform development.
    The remainder of the season will be effectively utilised to introduce necessary changes and adjustments. Lewis said, “The bike performed well and we’ve got a great foundation to build upon.” The race bike was shipped from India on Monday (September 07th) as more or less a flatpack, and the team worked endlessly to put it together.

    In March 2020, the current AFT season was postponed owing to Covid-19. The prototype motorcycle had been developed early in the year. All partners continued working through chassis changes and updates as he prototype was tested at Lewis’ Center Hill, Fl facility.
    The team was undaunted by multiple time zones, and challenges of shipping parts overseas, and worked tirelessly for weeks, culminating in the weekend’s successful race. With focus on development, the team aims to utilise all its learning from race weekend to better the bike for the next race in two weeks time on September 25-26 at the Dallas Half Mile.
    2020 AFT race season
    At the Atlanta and Daytona Beach AFT rounds, Lewis will be accompanied by participants of Royal Enfield’s Build Train Race (BTR) programme, who will compete in an exhibition, using custom INT 650 motorcycles. The 2020 AFT race season will be crucial to gather data and feedback on the Royal Enfield FT package ahead of the 2021 AFT season. With the race motorcycle arriving in the US only three days prior to race day, the following two days were spent in assembling the unit, leaving no time for a track test.

    Friday’s official practice session was the first time Lewis rode the Twins FT, and went on to secure 3rd place Semi-final finish, and 6th place finish in the Main race. On Saturday, new chassis setups were tested to improve handling than the previous day.
    During the Semi Final, a weakened head gasket failed and he had to pull off the track. This was identified and fixed with an hour and a half to go before the Main. Once fixed, the bike was back onto the track in 13th spot, minutes before the green flag. At the end of race weekend, the team secured seventh place. More

  • Royal Enfield Himalayan in New Blue Livery for Argentinian Police

    Royal Enfield has literally spread its wings just like its symbol when it inaugurated its first overseas assembly plant in Argentina
    A couple of days ago Royal Enfield announced that it will be setting up a new manufacturing facility in Argentina which will assemble some of its models locally. These models include the Himalayan, Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. This is the brand’s first overseas manufacturing facility outside India.

    The facility is situated in Buenos Aires, the country’s capital. It has been set up in partnership with Grupo Simpa, Royal Enfield’s local distributor in Argentina since 2018. Considering the monumental development, the inauguration event was attended by none other than Alberto Fernández, President of Argentina.
    In addition, the country’s police has employed the services of Royal Enfield Himalayan. The police have inducted a specific number of Himalayan units into its force, with special blue livery. There are also some modifications made, it has the PFA (Argentina Police) logo on the fuel tank of Himalayan, there is a PA system installed along with police lights.
    Himalayan in Indian Police

    This is a proud moment for Indian bike brand Royal Enfield as well as its fans in India, as a Police Force of another country inducts RE motorcycles into their force for official use. Himalayan is being used by select units of the Indian Police as well. Some time back, Royal Enfield in association with Bengaluru Police drafted ‘We for Women‘. This is an all women police officer’s brigade – focusing on making life for women and children safer in the city.
    Apart from Argentina, the iconic Indian bike maker has five exclusive stores in China while there are 31 stores and 40 other retail touch points spread across Latin America. Overall, the brand has its presence in over sixty countries across the globe. Furthermore, with new launches lined up, Royal Enfield may decide to locally produce the upcoming models in Argentina and export it to the rest of Latin America.
    Upcoming Launch
    In India, Royal Enfield is currently gearing up for the launch of the much anticipated Meteor 350 which will replace the Thunderbird 350 and 350X from the company’s lineup. The Meteor 350 will be a cruiser motorcycle and will be offered in three derivatives- Fireball, Stellar and Supernova.
    The Meteor 350 is going to be the first model under the new range of UCE350 motorcycles from Royal Enfield. This new range will employ a completely new 350cc air-cooled motor and a brand new platform called ‘J1D’. This new engine ditches the old push-rod tech for a SOHC setup. The new generation classic 350 will also fall under this category.
    The new 350cc powertrain is said to put out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. This is 0.4 bhp more but 1 Nm less than the older unit. The bike will come with technology such as Bluetooth technology, inbuilt turn-by-turn navigation called ‘Tripper Navigation’ and much more. The bike is expected to go on sale in a few days’ time. More

  • Royal Enfield Meteor 350 to Launch as Easy Cruiser – New Details

    Royal Enfield Meteor Easy Cruiser is going to be launched on 22nd Sep in India in three variants – Fireball, Stellar and Supernova
    Indian bike maker Royal Enfield gears up for the launch of a new motorcycle set to be a replacement of the Thunderbird. Called the Meteor 350, this upcoming bike is positioned on a new “J” platform. Many details regarding this upcoming RE has already been leaked. Now, another set of new information has leaked, which tells us more about its specs, as well as how the company plans on marketing the new Meteor.

    Meteor 350 will be presented in three variants of Fireball, Stellar and top of the line Supernova. Each of these variants will be set apart by a series of cosmetics though all three will sport Tripper Navigation, a Bluetooth-enabled GPS system as standard.
    Royal Enfield will market the M350 as an Easy Cruiser. As per the leaked marketing material, Meteor 350 is Easy as well as Cruiser. Easy because it has Easy Turning Ability, Smoother Gear Shifts, Low Cost Ownership, Refined Engine. Cruiser because it has Leant Back Seating, Forward Footpegs, Raised Handlebars, Low Seat Height.
    Royal Enfield Meteor Easy Cruiser
    Royal Enfield Easy Cruiser Specs
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 engine specifications get detailed in a leaked document. It will be powered by an updated BS6 compliant, 349cc, single cylinder engine offering 20.2 hp power and 27 Nm torque mated to a 5 speed gearbox. This new long stroke engine is now an SOHC setup, and not push-rod setup like that of older Thunderbird or that of Classic 350 BS6. In comparison, this new UCE350 engine offers about 0.4 bhp more power and 1 Nm of less torque. Below are the detailed specs.
    Specs
    Meteor 350
    Engine
    Single Cylinder
    Cooling
    Air Cooled
    Displacement
    349cc
    Setup
    OHC
    FI
    Yes
    Power
    20.2 bhp @ 6100 rpm
    Torque
    27 Nm @ 4000 rpm
    Drive
    Chain
    Transmission
    5 Speed
    Front Suspension
    Telescopic 41mm Forks, 130 mm Travel
    Rear Suspension
    Adjustable Twin   Springs
    Front Brakes
    300 mm Single Disc
    Rear Brakes
    270 mm Single Disc
    ABS
    Dual Channel
    Front Tyre
    100/90
    Rear Tyre
    140/70
    Front Wheel
    19 inch Alloy
    Rear Wheel
    17 inch Alloy
    Fuel Tank
    15 liters
    Equipment and Colour Options
    The RE Meteor 350 base Fireball variant will get two colour options of Gloss Yellow and Red. It will sport coloured decals and will miss out on some chrome accents which will be seen on the two other variants.

    The Stellar variant is presented in colour options of Stellar Red (metallic gloss), Stellar Black (matte) and Stellar Blue (metallic gloss). It will get body coloured panels, chrome accents seen on handle bars, fuel cover and exhaust. A back rest will be an added feature for rider comfort while it will sport a 3D logo.
    The top of the line Supernova trim will see two dual tone colour scheme of blue and black or brown and black. The Supernova also gets premium dual tone, machine finished alloy wheels, a revised seat cover and windscreen while it also receives chrome finished indicators.
    Features and Launch Date
    Common to each of the variants are a semi digital instrument cluster, TFT navigation unit, turn by turn indicators and smartphone connectivity. The Meteor will be the first motorcycle from Royal Enfield to feature this level of technology. The instrument cluster consists of 8 LED signs and an LCD screen revealing information on odometer, trip meter, time, service reminder, etc. It gets a rounded halogen headlamp with an LED ring and the same feature is also seen on its tail lamp. For a more comfortable ride position over longer distances, the bike maker has fitted the Meteor 350 with raised handle bars and a back rest.
    The new Meteor 350 is expected to be launched in India on 22nd Sep. No prices have been detailed as on date but estimates put the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 in a price range from Rs.1.65-1.70 lakhs. RE Meteor 350 will compete with the likes of other similarly priced motorcycles like Jawa.
    Source More

  • Royal Enfield 650 GT Modified Custom Sidecar Looks Absolutely Stunning

    Powering this modified Royal Enfield 650 GT sidecar, is the same 650cc parallel twin engine which dishes out 47 bhp and 52 Nm
    Motorcycles with sidecars are quite fascinating to look at and are functionally relevant as well. These have a history dating back to more than a century and were used extensively during World War I and II. Sidecar customization projects are quite popular and we have seen some really interesting creations over the years. In a recent project, Walter Harrius from Cuxhaven, Germany has added an elegant, retro-styled sidecar to his Royal Enfield Continental GT 650.
    Sidecar customization details

    For this project, the owner has used parts sourced from other motorcycles. For example, the end pipes come from a Triumph 1200. The wheel for the sidecar comes from a Harley whereas the brakes are taken from a Yamaha bike. Talking about the structure of the sidecar, it has been custom built by the owner himself using arches and pipes.
    Duna sidecar
    The key highlight of this customization project is the Duna sidecar that has been painted in the same colour shades as that of GT 650 Black Magic colour variant. The Black Magic theme has golden strips on a glossy black fuel tank, which can also be seen on the Duna sidecar. The nose of the sidecar sports a metallic shade, which is the same as can be seen on the engine, exhaust, front fender and headlamp casing of Royal Enfield Continental GT 650.

    It is worth noting that Duna sidecars were originally offered with motorcycles produced by Hungarian manufacturer Pannonia in the mid twentieth century. As the sidecars were manufactured at a facility located along the Danube river, they were given the name ‘Duna’. These sidecars came with a futuristic design and had a unique rocked shaped nose.
    While earlier versions were built using steel, the need to reduce weight prompted the manufacturer to use aluminium at a later stage. These gorgeous sidecars were relegated to history books in 1975 when Pannonia went out of production.

    Interiors of this customized Duna sidecar come with a quilted design seat in black and beige colour theme. This enhances the overall look and feel of the sidecar. Together, the GT 650 and the sidecar come across as a seamless unit. It looks like a factory-fitted sidecar and there’s hardly anything that feels out of place.
    Smooth run at fast speeds
    The owner said that the project was not that difficult even though there were some challenges along the way. He has already tested his three-wheeled creation and it runs quite well. He was able to achieve a top speed of 140 km/h in 5th gear. The owner also said that the sidecar is completely detachable. It takes just around ten minutes to remove the sidecar and go solo again on the Conti GT 650. More

  • Royal Enfield Himalayan, 650 Twins rolls out of New Argentina Plant

    The Royal Enfield assembly plant in Argentina will roll out Himalayan, Continental GT 650 and Interceptor 650 for now
    In what could be considered as an important step towards its goal of achieving global leadership in medium displacement segment, Royal Enfield has announced the setting up on its first overseas assembly plant. Located in Campana, Bueons Aires, Argentina, the new assembly line will be of strategic importance for the brand’s Latin American operations.
    Royal Enfield in Latin America

    Latin America, especially Argentina, is an important medium displacement motorcycle market. The Indian retro-classic motorcycle brand established a partnership with Grupo Simpa to distribute its products in Argentina starting from 2018. The brand now has 5 exclusive stores across the country and 31 across Latin America.
    This is in addition to 40 other touch points in the region. The new assembly plant has also been set up in association with the same partner. The plant was recently inaugurated in the presence of Argentinian president Alberto Fernandes. Below is the video shared by Royal Enfield Argentina.
    [embedded content]
    As of now, Royal Enfield’s Argentinian assembly plant will source CKD kits from its Chennai facilities and will be rolling out the Himalayan, Continental GT 650 and Interceptor 650 models. We expect the facility to also assemble next generation models including the upcoming Meteor 350 and KX concept-based 650 cc cruiser in due course.
    Global expansion plans
    Speaking about the new assembly plant in Argentina, Royal Enfield’s CEO Vinod Dasari stated that the company has expanded its retain presence to 60 countries in the recent years and is planning to establish production footprint in key Asia-Pacific and South American markets. The new plant is first of these.
    Royal Enfield Argentina
    With local assembly, the brand can take advantage of tax benefits and would be able to price its products competitively. The Latin American market is important for the brand to achieve global leadership in middleweight segment. The CEO stated that the response from Argentina has been very encouraging since inception.
    Proportion of export market
    For a company with global aspirations, Royal Enfield still has a lot of territory to cover. For now, the brand operates 660 dealerships across the world of which 82 are exclusive stores. Over 90% of Royal Enfield’s total sales comes from the domestic market but the 650 Twins have are getting increasingly popular in international markets.
    With aggressive expansion and overseas CKD assembly plants, the company is planning to grow its export operations in the coming years. The next Royal Enfield CKD assembly plant is expected to come up in South East Asia, from Thailand. In fact, RE had announced the setting up of Thailand plant in 2019, and it was to go operational sometime earlier this year. But due to unknown reasons, that has been delayed, and the Thailand RE plant is now expected to produce RE motorcycles from 2021. More

  • Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Engine Specs Leak – Power increases, Torque decreases

    The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 will employ a new 350cc motor under the ‘UCE350’ range – Likely mated to 5-speed transmission unit
    Motorcycle enthusiasts have been eagerly and patiently waiting for the Meteor 350 for a very long time. Sources tell us that the launch is expected to take place on 22nd Sep. Ahead of launch, Youtube Channel Rider Lal has managed to reveal interesting new details about the motorcycle.
    Engine

    Meteor 350 will replace the Thunderbird 350 and Thunderbird 350X in the Chennai-based bike maker’s portfolio. The motorcycle is built upon a completely new platform codenamed ‘J1D’. Meteor will be the first of the new ‘UCE350’ range which will employ a completely new 350cc air-cooled motor which is set to be more efficient. The new generation Classic 350 is also being developed under this range.
    As per the leaked image, this new BS6 350cc engine of Meteor 350 will deliver 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. This when compared to the existing BS6 350cc engine of Classic 350, is about 0.4 bhp more, but 1 Nm less. Current Classic 350 BS6 which is on sale in India, delivers 19.8 bhp and 28 Nm torque. Do note that the current Classic 350 UCE engine is based on the older push-rod tech, while the new Meteor 350 UCE engine is based on the SOHC setup.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Engine Specs
    Speaking about transmission, it is most likely a 5 speed unit. The leaked image states that the new transmission offers smooth gear shifts. Just like the engine, the clutch and transmission system is also newly developed. It has less number of parts and linkages – resulting in better clutch life and reduced friction.
    Variants & Features
    From the images leaked earlier, we know that Meteor 350 will be available in three variants- Fireball, Stellar and Supernova. Each variant will feature its unique set of components which distinguish them apart. The base Fireball trim will feature a coloured rim tape, body graphics with decals, single colour fuel tank and blacked-out components.

    The mid-spec Stellar variant will sport chrome finish on handlebars, premium badges, body-coloured components and a backrest for the pillion. On the hand, the top-end, Supernova trim will offer a premium seat upholstery, machined alloy wheels, chrome on indicators, a dual-tone colour scheme and a windscreen. Also, standard features such as inbuilt turn-by-turn navigation called ‘Tripper Navigation’ and semi-digital twin-pod instrument cluster will be offered across the range.
    Meteor 350 will be the most feature loaded RE motorcycle ever. Other features include bluetooth enabled turn by turn navigation system, USB charger for charging your devices on the go.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Riding Stance
    Along with the actual motorcycle, miniature scale models will also go on sale later this month, as official merchandise. Leaked images give a clear visual understanding as to how the bike would actually look like. There will be a total of seven colours on offer across the range- Fireball Red, Fireball Yellow, Stellar Matte Black, Stellar Red Metallic, Stellar Blue Metallic, Supernova Blue dual-tone, Supernova Brown dual-tone.
    Royal Enfield will be using Ceat / Ace tyres for Meteor 350. The front and rear tyres will measure 100/90-19 and 140/70-17, respectively. Fuel tank capacity is 15 liters. Prices of the bike are expected to start from around Rs 1.65 lakh (ex-showroom). More