Next-Generation Royal Enfield Bullet 350: A Sneak Peek into the Upcoming Update
7/19/2023 • India • New Launches
Among Royal Enfield's current lineup, the Bullet 350 stands as the sole motorcycle equipped with the previous-generation 346cc UCE engine. However, its reign is soon to witness a transformation with an imminent update on the horizon. Recently, the next-generation model was spotted undergoing testing, creating excitement among enthusiasts. Additionally, Royal Enfield has teased the updated bike, setting the stage for an important event on August 5. Let's delve into what can be anticipated from the new Bullet 350, as it gears up to make its grand debut.
Next-Gen Royal Enfield Bullet 350: Upcoming Engine Details
The forthcoming evolution of the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 promises a significant and evident transformation – the heart of the machine, its engine. Bid farewell to the current 346cc UCE motor as it gracefully bows out to make room for the new 349cc J-platform engine. Familiar to riders from the current Classic 350 and Meteor 350, this engine is expected to retain its power figures, delivering 20.2hp and 27Nm, while being mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
Beneath the numbers lies the essence of this upgrade – an impressive leap in overall refinement. The J-platform engine is poised to bid adieu to the vexing high-RPM vibrations that have been an enduring characteristic of the Bullet. With this innovation, the dreaded vibrations are set to become a thing of the past, promising riders a smoother and more enjoyable experience on the road.
As the Bullet embraces the advancements of the J-platform engine, another change looms on the horizon – the departure of the kick starter. Currently offered in both affordable kick-start-only variants and more expensive versions with an electric starter, the next-generation model is likely to bid farewell to the former, embracing a solely electric start. This streamlined approach aligns with Royal Enfield's commitment to delivering a modern and hassle-free riding experience in the evolving world of two-wheelers.
Next-Generation Royal Enfield Bullet 350: Upgraded Underpinnings Revealed
Similar to its predecessor, the updated Bullet 350 is expected to share nearly all its underpinnings with the current Classic 350. This includes a robust double downtube frame, supported by a conventional telescopic fork and twin shock absorbers. The wheel and tire sizes are likely to remain unchanged, with a 100/90-19 tire at the front and a 120/80-18 tire at the rear.
Drawing from our experience with the Classic model, the new Bullet is anticipated to provide a comfortable and more refined riding experience compared to its predecessor. While it will share similarities with the Classic, distinctions will primarily involve the seat design and brake system. The Bullet is expected to retain its iconic single-piece seat configuration, and the rear brake is likely to be a drum unit across all variants, indicating that dual-channel ABS may not be available. In contrast, higher variants of the Classic 350 do offer a rear disc brake and dual-channel ABS.
Upcoming Royal Enfield Bullet 350: Exciting Features and Expected Pricing
The current Bullet 350 serves as the entry-level model in Royal Enfield's lineup, which reflects in its comparatively modest equipment offerings. While the existing bike does not offer the Tripper navigation pod as an option, there are strong indications that the next-generation Bullet will likely include this feature as an optional extra. Additionally, the instrumentation is expected to receive an upgrade, with the Bullet adopting the sleek semi-digital unit found in the current Classic 350.
As the kick-start variants are unlikely to be retained, the pricing for the upcoming Bullet is projected to align with the current electric start (ES) versions, possibly with a slight increase to account for the updates. With this estimation, it is anticipated that the next-gen Bullet 350 will be available at around the Rs 1.7 lakh price point.
authors profile
Arushi Jain
Progressing designer. Part time auto blogger.