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  • New Royal Enfield Classic 350, Meteor, Sherpa, 650cc – Spied Together

    Royal Enfield has a string of upcoming launches starting with the Meteor 350 next month
    Royal Enfield has been one motorcycle manufacturer that has been able to retain its old-school charm and yet top the sales charts in the segment. While the Chennai-based bike maker has been best known to make retro-styled motorcycles, it has consciously decided to part away from this general convention. In the coming months, Royal Enfield is planning to launch a few motorcycles in modern renditions.

    The company has already started working on these new products that have been in development for a very long time now. Some of them, in fact, have been recently spotted testing together on the road.
    In a video uploaded on Youtube by Vilvakumar P, we can see the upcoming Meteor 350, the new generation Classic 350 and two entry-level lightweight motorcycles, which are currently being referred to as ‘Sherpa’ or ‘Hunter’. There is also a twin cylinder motorcycle in the video. Take a look at the video below. Interestingly, the video also somewhat manages to capture the exhaust note of each motorcycle.

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    As you can see in the video, the Classic 350 and the Meteor 350 are clearly recorded. But the other two motorcycles, which appear towards the end of the video, are barely visible. They are more like a blur, blink and you will miss type. But slow the video down, and you will be able to see the Hunter / Sherpa’s silhouette and the twin exhausts of the last test mule.
    New Generation Classic 350

    New Classic 350
    The first bike being spotted is the new generation Classic 350. With similar design and structure, The bike is an upgrade of the popular retro-styled motorcycle. Although there is no official information regarding the bike, we do know that all the new bikes will be built upon a new ‘J’ platform.
    Meteor 350

    New Meteor 350
    The next bike in line as seen in the video was the Meteor 350. Since unofficial images of the upcoming cruiser bike have been leaked online, it was relatively easier to identify this one. The Meteor 350 is slated to be launched next month and is expected to be undergoing the final testing phase. The Meteor 350 is the first bike to be launched which will be based on a completely new ‘J’ platform.
    As we all know, the Meteor 350 is expected to replace the Thunderbird 350X. It is set to carry forward all attributes of Thunderbird with minor design modifications. It will also be powered by a new single-cylinder engine and it will be interesting to see whether it will be able to retain its original characteristics or not.
    The Meteor is also expected to employ a new twin-cradle design frame which is expected to improve the handling and stability. The Thunderbird utilised a single downtube architecture instead.
    Sherpa/Hunter

    Royal Enfield Sherpa / Hunter
    A lightweight motorcycle was spotted which was referred to as ‘Sherpa’ although there is considerable confusion regarding the nomenclature as many have been calling it the Hunter. It should be pointed out that both names- Sherpa and Hunter have been registered by Royal Enfield. Both the trademarks could be utilised by the company for its upcoming new products. Or they could be variants of their new motorcycle.
    For reference, the Sherpa was a lightweight bike manufactured by Royal Enfield in the 1960s and 70s which employed a 173cc engine. Therefore, it is more fitting that the entry-level is named ‘Sherpa’. However only time and Royal Enfield could tell us which bike will be named what.
    650 cc RE

    650cc RE on test
    The last RE test mule to be seen in the video can hardly be recognized, if it was not the twin exhausts. From whatever we make from the blur, it seems like the Continental GT 650. Maybe the maker is testing a new part or some sort of upgrade. More

  • Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Leaks – 7 Colours, 3 Variants of Fireball, Stellar, Supernova

    The new-gen ‘UCE 350’ Royal Enfield Meteor 350 comes in three variants (Fireball, Stellar & Supernova) and seven colours
    Chennai-based motorcycle manufacturer Royal Enfield is almost ready to launch its new-gen ‘UCE 350’ range that starts with the much-awaited Meteor 350. Essentially a replacement to the now discontinued BS4-compliant Thunderbird and ThunderbirdX 350 siblings, the 2020 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 sits on an all-new platform, gets an improved air-cooled power plant and features a host of modern equipment.

    Over the months, we have shared multiple spy images and videos of the Meteor 350. Many have spotted the cruiser doing test runs across the stretches of India. Exciting times lie ahead of Royal Enfield fans since the British-origin automaker plans several interesting products for the near future. Using the same ~350cc mill, another prototype (supposedly dubbed ‘Hunter 350’) is also doing rounds wearing heavy camouflage.

    To the surprise of many, the company has even revealed that it is working on all-electric models for the years to come. A Royal Enfield without the typical ‘thump’, or virtually zero noise for that matter, may upset hardcore ‘RE fans’. However, this is something to think about at a later stage. Let us dive into what is hitting our market in a few months’ time or maybe even weeks.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 brochure leaked
    We bring you an exclusive glimpse into what the upcoming new-gen ‘UCE 350’ model offers. In a brochure leak (more like a dealers’ overview), one can understand the variants, colours and cosmetic features of the new Royal Enfield Meteor 350. There are seven colours in total: Fireball Yellow, Fireball Red, Stellar Red metallic, Stellar Black matte, Stellar Blue metallic, Supernova Brown dual-tone and Supernova Blue dual-tone.

    As the names suggest, the 2020 Meteor 350 comes in three variants: Fireball, Stellar and Supernova. It is worth mentioning that the ‘Fireball’ variant was previously leaked from an online configurator page.
    Cosmetic highlights of the Meteor Fireball variant include blacked-out components, single-colour fuel tank, body graphics, machined cooling fins and coloured wheel rim. ‘Stellar’ adds body-coloured components, premium badges, chrome elements and a backrest. Finally comes the Supernova variant sporting dual-tone paint scheme, machined alloy wheels, premium seat upholstery, flyscreen and chrome turn signals.

    ‘Tripper Navigation’ (most likely inbuilt navigation with turn-by-turn directions) remains standard. We have already shared a real-life image of the same. The semi-digital dual-pod instrument console also features Bluetooth connectivity — a first for Royal Enfield.
    Possible engine characteristics & pricing

    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Speedometer
    Unlike the archaic tappet-valve arrange of the current-gen BS6 ‘UCE 350’ mill, the new avatar might have an OHC (Over Head Cam) setup. This can boost output by a significant margin. For reference, the existing 346cc air-cooled FI single-cylinder engine generates just about 20bhp and 28Nm. The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is expected to get a 5-speed transmission as its predecessor. Ex-showroom prices should start at roughly Rs 1.65 lakh (Rs 10,000-15,000 over the Thunderbird 350). More

  • Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Digital Display Offers Navigation – Spied

    Replacement of the Thunderbird range, new Royal Enfield Meteor 350 will launch next month in India
    Equipped with a new engine and an entirely new platform, Meteor 350 will be the newest edition to Royal Enfield’s product portfolio. A replacement for Thunderbird 350 and Thunderbird X 350, Meteor 350 will launch in Sep 2020.

    It will be the first of several other next-gen products that Royal Enfield has plans to launch in the near future. Spy shots had earlier revealed another new RE motorcycle that appeared to have the same power plant as that of Meteor 350.
    Design upgrades
    Meteor 350 sports a new bodywork, even though things like round headlamps, teardrop indicators and wide fenders give it the quintessential RE flavour. It has a brooding character, as can be seen with the blacked out components such as engine, wheels, and exhaust pipe. The motorcycle has a beefy profile and comes with a relaxed, upright riding stance. The motorcycle seems close to perfect for long distance rides and cruising at high speeds on wide open roads.

    Royal Enfield Meteor 350
    Key features of Meteor 350 include halogen headlamps with integrated LED DRLs, semi-digital instrument cluster, and long split grab rails. The digital cluster will connect to your smartphone via bluetooth, and offer turn by turn navigation. Components that have been updated include new alloy wheels and brake and clutch levers. Fuel tank design has been refreshed and it comes with a new fuel-filler cap. The side profile also looks distinct as compared to existing RE motorcycles.
    Meteor 350 engine
    Powering Meteor 350 will be the next-gen UCE 350 air cooled, single cylinder engine that gets OHC (Over Head Cam). It will be mated to a 5-speed transmission. Meteor 350 will be the first next-gen RE product to get this new engine. The new engine is expected to offer a range of benefits including higher power output and faster acceleration.
    The existing BS6 compliant UCE 350 engine is a 346 cc single cylinder, FI engine that churns out 20 bhp of max power and 28 Nm of max torque. It comprises an archaic tappet valve system.

    Royal Enfield Meteor 350
    Another key change in Meteor 350 is the new modular J platform. This is expected to be used for various other 350 cc Royal Enfield motorcycles. The new chassis and engine will allow Meteor 350 to be more responsive and have less vibration. The motorcycle will have disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard.
    To make the rides even more comfortable and safer, Royal Enfield will be offering a range of accessories to go with Meteor 350. These include a tall flyscreen or windscreen, broad footpegs, pannier mounts and crash guards. Meteor 350 will primarily compete with the likes of Bajaj Dominar 400 and Jawa. Launch price is expected to be close to Rs 1.65 lakh (ex-showroom).
    Image Source More

  • Royal Enfield Launches Mobile App – Classic, Bullet, Himalayan, 650 Twins

    Royal Enfield has introduced a new dedicated app for its customers which provides a number of functionalities
    The Chennai based bike maker, as of recently, is coming out with many customer centric conveniences to make their lives a little easy. Now, with the new app Royal Enfield consumers may avail of many services from the comfort of their home without having to step outside.
    Services Offered Though The App

    This New Mobile App caters to all– new, prospective as well as existing customers of Royal Enfield. Prospective buyers can purchase their new motorcycles by booking through the app. They can select a certain model with the preferred variant and colour options. The payment options are also integrated into the app. The bike can be collected from their selected nearby dealership with the final payment to be made at the showroom.
    The new app also gives people to register themselves for Royal Enfield rides and events. One can even save his/her rides and routes and share it with their peers. Bikers can also join their friends for rides or create their own rides and head out for an adventure. Apart from this, people can also book their servicing slots at a nearby service station as per their convenience and mention the issues they are facing with their motorcycles.

    Royal Enfield Mobile App screenshots
    Royal Enfield is also providing pick-up and drop facilities at the service stations. Also, the new app lets you surf through DIY guides that help you fix minor issues yourself and also help you get prepared for the next ride. In addition, the app also helps you contact roadside assistance in case of an emergency. All these services are provided so that the consumers need not have to visit the showrooms and service stations unnecessarily.
    Initial Reviews of RE App
    Some customers have found issues with this new Royal Enfield App. One star review by Ajay Sharma states – “A lot is wrong with this app. The development of the app is quite poor. It is confused in itself and the coding is misplaced. If you have decided to come up with an app, you have to ensure ease and user friendliness which is completely missing. The app misses to fulfill the basic purpose of service booking and purchase booking as it fails to provide the essentials required by a customer while doing either. Please look into it and get it fixed. Don’t let this app be a bloat on the legend RE.”

    Royal Enfield Mobile App screenshots
    To this, RE has replied, “Hi Ajay, thank you for sharing your experience with the Royal Enfield App. At the moment, the app has been launched with an initial set of features. However, we assure you we plan to keep adding new features over time.”
    Upcoming Bikes From Royal Enfield
    While social distancing has become the general norm for everyday life, this app will go a long way in providing hassle-free services to people in these trying times. Currently, Royal Enfield has five motorcycles under its product portfolio. These are Classic 350, Bullet 350, Himalayan, Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. The company is also preparing the launch for its upcoming bike- the Meteor 350 which is set to replace Thunderbird.
    The Meteor will be built upon a completely new architecture called the ‘J’ platform. Apart from this, the manufacturer, which traces its origin back to the UK, is planning to develop an all-new electric motorcycle. More

  • Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Launch In Sep 2020 – Exp Price Rs 1.65 Lakh

    An entirely new product and a replacement for Thunderbird 350, Royal Enfield Meteor 350 will launch next month
    The earlier plan to launch Meteor 350 in April has been shelved on account of the ongoing pandemic. Meteor 350 comes with entirely new bodywork, even though it retains the core character of a tourer.

    Launch of Meteor 350 will be an exciting moment for motorcycling enthusiasts who have been waiting for quite some time to see the next generation of Royal Enfield motorcycles. Some of the major changes that are easily noticeable include large front and rear fenders, new fuel tank with a redesigned fuel-filler cap and updated side panels. When viewed up close, the bike looks quite bulky.
    Other features that outline the motorcycle’s unique profile include updated headlamp, new alloys, new brake and clutch levers, longer split grab rails, asymmetrically mounted semi-digital instrument dial, and new tail light design. Meteor 350 makes a dominating stance with its blacked-out colour theme, as can be seen on the engine, exhaust and wheels.

    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Test Mule
    Powering Meteor 350 is the new overhead camshaft (OHC) engine, which will also power the next generation of other Royal Enfield 350 cc motorcycles. Existing 350 cc RE motorcycles are powered by a 346 cc single-cylinder engine that utilizes the tappet-valve system. This is quite outdated and has lived its useful life.
    Engine
    RE’s new 350 cc engine is BS6 compliant and comes with fuel injection (FI) system. Meteor’s engine details are yet to be revealed, but power and torque is expected to be close to that of existing 350 cc engine. For records, the BS4 350 cc engine outputs 19.8 bhp of max power and 28 Nm of max torque. Engine is mated to a 5-speed transmission.
    Meteor 350 utilizes the new modular J platform, which seems to have a tubular frame configuration like its predecessor. Other components that have been carried forward include telescopic front forks and twin gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear. Braking duties are performed by disc brakes at both ends. It is likely that Meteor 350 will be offered with dual-channel ABS as standard.
    With its new platform and next-gen engine, Meteor 350 will have improved ride dynamics. As compared to its predecessor, Meteor 350 will be lighter, powerful, and more responsive. It will allow faster acceleration, have less vibration and come with improved braking capability.
    Users can also expect comfortable rides, as the motorcycle comes with broad seats and a relaxed riding stance. With the BS6 upgrade and other new features, Meteor 350 is expected to be priced a bit higher than Thunderbird 350. Expect prices to be in the region of Rs 1.65 lakhs, ex-sh. More

  • Royal Enfield July 2020 Sales Data, Exports – Classic, Bullet, Himalayan

    Royal Enfield says that demand for their motorcycles is on the rise, but there are constraints due to breaks in supply chain
    Even though footfall is increasing at dealerships, most two-wheeler manufacturers continue to report negative YoY growth. The situation was the same in July for most manufacturers including Royal Enfield. The company sold a total of 37,925 units in July, which is YoY loss of –22.89%. Royal Enfield sales during the same period last year was 49,182 units.
    Royal Enfield domestic sales

    Talking about sales performance of individual products, Classic 350 continues to the bread and butter of Royal Enfield. In July, a total of 25,534 units were sold, resulting in YoY loss of -13.26%. A total of 29,439 units of Classic 350 were sold during the corresponding period last year. Classic 350 was among the first Royal Enfield bikes to get BS6 update.
    The company is currently testing the next-gen Classic 350, which is expected to be launched during the festive season. New Classic 350 will have a range of upgrades such as all-new platform, refreshed exteriors, and semi-digital instrument cluster.

    Royal Enfield Domestic Sales July 2020
    Next in the list is Bullet 350 with 7,112 units sold in July. YoY sales are down -18.06%, as compared to 8,680 units sold in July last year. Bullet 350 was upgraded to BS6 in March. Apart from the engine, it did not have any other major updates. At third place is Electra 350 with 3,742 units sold in July. YoY sales have almost doubled in comparison to 1,943 units sold in July last year. Electra is the only motorcycle to register positive growth in July 2020.
    The enticing 650 twins take the fourth place with 1,058 units sold in July. YoY sales have more than halved, as compared to 2,225 units sold in July last year.
    The highly capable off-roader Himalayan is placed at fifth place with 479 units sold in July. Himalayan YoY sales have dropped by -70.41%, as compared to 1,619 units sold in July last year. It appears that off-roading has taken a backseat in the times of Covid-19. Royal Enfield motorcycles that did not even open their account in July include Thunderbird 350, Bullet 500, Classic 500, and Thunderbird 500.
    Royal Enfield Exports

    Royal Enfield Exports July 2020
    Exports have turned out to be even worse for Royal Enfield in July in percentage terms. A total of 2,409 units were exported, which is YoY loss of -51.85%. A total of 5,003 units were exported during the same period last year.
    As compared to domestic sales, the exports list of RE motorcycles is almost upside down. Leading the pack in July is 650 twins with 1,274 units sent overseas. Export numbers have more than halved, as compared to 2,570 units exported in July last year.
    Next is Himalayan, which seems to be doing much better in international markets. One key reason could be its affordable pricing. A total of 825 Himalayan motorcycles were exported in July, as compared to 910 units in July last year. YoY loss stands at -9.34%.
    Other RE motorcycles in the list include Classic 500 (213 units), Classic 350 (41), Thunderbird 350 (40), Bullet 500 (15), and Electra 350 (1). Motorcycles with zero exports include Bullet 350 and Thunderbird 500.
    No
    Royal Enfield Domestic
    Jul-20
    Jul-19
    Diff
    %
    1
    Classic 350
    25,534
    29,439
    -3,905
    -13.26
    2
    Bullet 350
    7,112
    8,680
    -1,568
    -18.06
    3
    Electra 350
    3,742
    1,943
    1,799
    92.59
    4
    650 Twins
    1,058
    2,225
    -1,167
    -52.45
    5
    Himalayan
    479
    1,619
    -1,140
    -70.41
    6
    Thunderbird 350
    0
    4,471
    -4,471
    -100.00
    7
    Bullet 500
    0
    94
    -94
    -100.00
    8
    Classic 500
    0
    627
    -627
    -100.00
    9
    Thunderbird 500
    0
    84
    -84
    -100.00

    Total
    37,925
    49,182
    -11,257
    -22.89
     
     
     
     
     
     
    No
    Royal Enfield Exports
    Jul-20
    Jul-19
    Diff
    %
    1
    650 Twins
    1,274
    2,570
    -1,296
    -50.43
    2
    Himalayan
    825
    910
    -85
    -9.34
    3
    Classic 500
    213
    533
    -320
    -60.04
    4
    Classic 350
    41
    488
    -447
    -91.60
    5
    Thunderbird 350
    40
    18
    22
    122.22
    6
    Bullet 500
    15
    484
    -469
    -96.90
    7
    Electra 350
    1
    0
    1

    8
    Bullet 350
    0
    0
    0

    9
    Thunderbird 500
    0
    0
    0


    Total
    2,409
    5,003
    -2,594
    -51.85 More

  • Royal Enfield 650 Owner Explains Mods Done Worth Rs 3 Lakhs

    Owner of a RE 650 Conti GT has spent more almost the same amount of money on modification, as he spent on buying the motorcycle
    Launched in November 2018, Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 have gained wide popularity in the country and in overseas markets as well. The 650 twins are currently the most affordable twin cylinder motorcycle available in India. Although the bikes are near-perfect in terms of design and performance, there’s always room for enhancements.

    That’s exactly what YouTuber Ashwin Singh Takiar had in mind when he started a new customization project on his Continental GT 650. Below is the video that details all the changes and upgrades carried out on the motorcycle.
    Key modifications
    Ashwin’s primary objective was to enhance the retro flavour of Continental GT 650. In its stock version, the bike features a mix of retro and contemporary design. At the front, various parts have been removed and replaced with either custom designed units or parts sourced from other motorcycles. These include the handlebar, clutch assembly, brake lever, headlamp, and instrument cluster. The headlamp is a used unit from Harley-Davidson whereas the analogue meter has been sourced locally. Front suspension is of KTM Duke 390.

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    The front mudguard has been replaced with a custom built unit, which is shorter than the stock unit. Stock tyres have been replaced at both ends with Pirelli MT 60 RS at the front and Metzeler tyres at the rear. Wheels get a golden coat on the spokes and black coat on the rim. The callipers are also done in gold. This creates a regal look for the bike. Overall also, the bike’s core theme is primarily a combo of black and gold.
    Some radical changes
    It has been clearly mentioned in the video that this modification project is aimed at creating a show bike. This is why certain modifications may not be street legal. For example, the exhaust muffler has been removed and the exhaust pipe has been cut to achieve the drag pipe look. The pipe then gets an exhaust wrap to give it a classy appeal. The modified exhaust meets emission norms, as the catalytic converter is fitted inside the pipe. However, its significantly loud exhaust note is likely to get you ‘challaned’ by traffic police officials.
    Other key changes include blacked out engine and other cycle parts, addition of bash plate, chopped down chassis, and removal of rear mudguard. In terms of performance, the engine’s ECU has been tweaked to deliver 8 bhp more power.
    According to the modifier, this project has been going on for nearly 1.5 years. The bike has passed through various technicians and modifiers and it is still a work-in-progress. Total cost till date is almost Rs 3 lakh which includes Rs 37k labour charges. The modifier has assured that the final version will be showcased shortly in his garage and YouTube channel. More

  • Royal Enfield electric motorcycle prototypes are ready – Launch by 2022 ?

    Royal Enfield reveals that it has developed several EV prototypes by a newly formed dedicated team
    Across global automotive industries, EVs or Electric Vehicles are clearly the next big thing. The Indian government is also encouraging EV startups and emission-free alternatives in the passenger vehicle segment. Choices are very narrow at the moment but major automakers are investing a lot into new EV platforms, especially for the affordable category.

    Presently, there are only three desirable EVs among four-wheelers: Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona. Mahindra’s eXUV300 or XUV300 Electric will join the party very soon. It was only recently that the Delhi Government announced substantial incentives for electric vehicles.
    Under ‘Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy’, newly registered EVs are eligible for a price cut of Rs 10,000 for each kWh battery capacity (highest applicable price deduction: Rs 1.50 lakh).

    Image for reference
    It appears that two-wheelers, particularly scooters, offer the best platforms to develop electric powertrains that can meet or surpass the potential and desirability of conventional petrol examples. Performance-focused electric motorcycles might not be as ‘engaging’ or ‘fun’ as an ICE alternative coming in the same price bracket, at least in the foreseeable future. Yet mainstream motorcycle makers are betting big on EVs.
    Royal Enfield’s EV plans
    Royal Enfield confirms that it has been developing electric prototypes for quite some time. In fact, the Chennai-based motorcycle manufacturer has even formed a dedicated team to analyse market demands and trends in order to target the final emission-free product(s) at the right customer base.
    Vinod Dasari, CEO of Royal Enfield, told Moneycontrol that the company has major plans for all-electric motorcycles. He states that when it comes to electric vehicles, the question is not whether such mobility would come but ‘when’. ”Electric is something we take very seriously,” shares Vinod Dasari.
    Meanwhile, Royal Enfield is almost ready with the next-gen ‘UCE 350’ models, starting with the much-awaited Meteor 350 (Thunderbird 350 replacement). The company had discontinued its ‘UCE 500’ lineup ahead of BS6 emission norms due to poor demand and stiffer competition.
    We have shared a few all-electric Royal Enfield builds in the past such as Hound Electric’s E-Bullet and Electric Classic Cars’ Photon. As a fitting alternative, an unofficial Jawa EV render has also made its way to social media. It is worth mentioning that Classic Legends (parent company of Jawa Motorcycles) is working on an all-new electric motorcycle under ‘Yezdi’ brand. It would take at least two years or so for both Royal Enfield and Jawa Motorcycles to launch their first tailpipe-free model line. More