This Classic uses the excellent platform of the Meteor 350 to further sublimate it.
You will therefore not be surprised to learn that the mechanics remain unchanged from the Meteor: a small single-cylinder engine cooled by air and oil.
But, Euro 5 standard obliges, the power now displays 20.2 horsepower and 27 Nm of torque, where the Bullet 500 was going to seek 27 horsepower and 41 Nm. Far from being a thunderbolt, this single-cylinder is also far from to be anemic: its elastic roundness compensates for the lack of torque to ensure suitable pick-ups and accelerations, much better than what the 125cc are capable of.
During our Provençal test, we noted that these brand new machines easily reached 110 km/h on the clock.
Fully released, however, we should not expect more than 115 km / h.
Be that as it may, this superb motorcycle – with measurements close to the Bullet 500 – was not designed to survey the highways.
It will give its full and fair measure in the urban environment, on national roads or on twirling secondary roads.
In any case, this mechanism which vibrates little and responds to each request (it takes for example more rpm than the 500) is very pleasant on a daily basis.
The icing on the cake, it also remains very sober since it is satisfied with about 3.5 l / 100 km.
With its 13-litre tank, the Classic can therefore consider long trips before giving up.
Brilliant handling
The Classic does not only offer you an irreproachable vintage spirit.
It also gratifies you with dynamic services of good quality.
If the Provençal Alpilles are a splendid setting for motorcycling, their bouncy and bumpy roads sometimes evoke... Belgium!
The fork is not adjustable and the rear handsets are preloaded.
But never mind: in this tormented and very winding road context, the little Royal Enfield took the changes of direction with good will, braking on the angle without breaking up.
In short, she held the floor and brilliantly!
If some of the journalists present regretted the fitment of Indian tires (CEAT in this case), it must be recognized that on our sometimes wet route in the shaded areas, they gave us complete satisfaction with, in particular,
The brakes, let's talk about it: branded “Bybre”, they are therefore the work of Brembo and prove to be perfectly suited to the Classic.
The large front disc is not lacking in power and remains easily adjustable, while its rear counterpart offers surprising bite.
Also, since the two-channel ABS (not disconnectable) takes care of the grain, there is no need to be afraid when stopping.
Moreover, as the position on the Classic could not be more natural (better than on the Meteor!) and the well-padded saddle offers real comfort, it feels good.
This then makes it possible to appreciate long distances.
Firm as it should be, the suspensions combine rigor and comfort, a style very suited to this type of machine.
A careful assembly
Few plastics, no unsightly cables, beautifully crafted instrumentation and chrome: this uplifting impression prevails for the Classic as a whole.
From the height of its 121 years of existence, Royal Enfield is the oldest motorcycle manufacturer to have never ceased production... It is also a manufacturer that listens to its European customers by equipping its Classic with a very useful warning in our regions.
And if, like us, you find the exhaust silencer very pretty, tell yourself that its sound is just as good!
The Classic seduces because it really recalls what was done in the past.
Marketed at a price of 5,399 € which puts it in competition with the Japanese 125, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 puts forward many arguments such as its quality of manufacture, its vintage heritage spirit, its real dynamic abilities and a voluntary engine.
In addition, it is guaranteed for three years with assistance included.
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The Royal Enfield 350 Classic in a few figures:
Engine: air/oil cooled single cylinder
Displacement: 349cc
Maximum power: 20.2 hp (14.87 kW) at 6,100 rpm
Maximum torque: 27 Nm at 4,000 rpm
Gearbox: 5-speed
Final drive: by chain
Frame: tubular steel double cradle
Front suspension: classic 41 mm non-adjustable fork
Rear suspension: two combined preload adjustable
Front brake: single 300mm disc, two-piston floating caliper, ABS
Rear brake: single 270mm disc, single piston floating caliper, ABS
Saddle height: 805 mm
Weight (TPF): 195 kg
Tank: 13 liters
Price including VAT: €5,399
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