The timeless motorcycle gets some much-needed updates and some surprises
The timeless motorcycle gets some much-needed updates and some surprises
Royal Enfield has unveiled the updated 2024 Classic 350. Prices are yet to be revealed on September 1. The latest update of this iconic motorcycle addresses some long-awaited needs while also introducing updates that seem aimed at enhancing its comparative spec sheet appeal. In other words, some updates are practical and necessary, while others are more about checking boxes on the features list. In addition to these, there are new colours and we bring you a quick summary of the top 5 things.
The 2024 RE Classic 350 now features all LED lighting, including pilot lamps, headlights, and tail lamps. While LED lighting may not be a necessity on a classic bike like the Classic 350, many customers have been swayed by the appeal of white light over traditional yellow halogen bulbs. It's worth noting that the perceived dimness of yellow halogen bulbs might be due to their warmer tone, rather than any actual lack of illumination. In reality, the difference in illumination between LED and halogen bulbs may be negligible. Halogen bulbs can still be seen on indicators on Jodhpur Blue, Madras Red and Commandos Sand. Nevertheless, customer preference has driven the shift to LED lighting, which also brings added benefits such as reduced power drain on the battery. Additionally, the LED lighting enhances the bike's overall aesthetic appeal, giving it a modern touch without compromising its classic charm.
Royal Enfield has introduced adjustable brake levers with reach adjustment settings, allowing riders to choose from 5 settings. However, it's worth noting that this added complexity can also become a costly replacement for something that was a rather simple component. Nevertheless, for many riders, the benefits of adjustable brake levers will outweigh the potential downsides, making it a valuable addition to the Royal Enfield Classic 350's features list. This is skipped out on the lower base variants like the Jodhpur Blue, Madras Red and Commandos Sand.
The updated instrument cluster now features a gear position indicator, which enhances convenience by eliminating the need for riders to constantly keep track of the gear they are riding in. Although this modern feature may seem at odds with the Classic 350's retro aesthetic, it's a compromise that many riders are willing to make. While they may desire a bike that looks like it's from a bygone era, convenience takes priority when making a spec sheet-based decision.
The previous Royal Enfield Classic 350 range featured a diverse lineup of 11 variants with 9 colour options. Two colour options were available with both dual-channel and single-channel ABS, while two others were offered only with single-channel ABS. However, Royal Enfield has now discontinued the single-channel ABS option, reducing the total colour palette to 7 and 5 variants. Among the retained colours are Dark Stealth Black and Gun Metal Grey, which also retain their alloy wheel options.
While the prices are not out yet, the older pricing ranged from ₹1.93 lakh and went up to ₹2.25 lakh. What is expected is that the new pricing might start at upwards of ₹2 lakh and go slightly above the current mark. The pricing of the alloy wheel variant might also increase making those slightly expensive due to the new hardware.
