Royal Enfield has launched its first BS6 model, the Classic 350 at Rs 1.65 lakh (ex-showroom). The new motorcycle gets dual-channel ABS and compared to the previous model, demands a premium of Rs 11,000 (dual-channel ABS variant).
Read our classic bike comparo here
Though the classic 350 continues to be powered the same long-stroke, single-cylinder 346cc engine, it now gets a fuel-injection unit as opposed to the carburetor in the previous model. The power figures are yet to be announced but the fuel-injection should make for a smoother power delivery. That said, Royal Enfield claims that the engine power and torque delivery have been optimised and tuned in a way to improve the performance through the rev range.
Royal Enfield has also introduced two new colour schemes with the new model – Stealth Black and Chrome Black. The former, along with the gunmetal grey colour scheme get alloy wheels and tubeless tyres as standard. Another addition is on the aftersales service front with all the BS6 models getting three years warranty and three years of road side assistance.
Though there is no word on the launch of other BS6 motorcycles from Royal Enfield, the company will be rolling out the updated bikes before the April 2020 deadline and going by the spy shots, the Thunderbird series is likely to receive a major overhaul as well.
Speaking about the launch of the new BS VI compliant motorcycles, Vinod Dasari, CEO of Royal Enfield said, “Royal Enfield believes that sustainable growth comes from thinking ahead and deploying long-term strategies. The directive by the Government to adhere to the BS VI emission norms is a welcome move as it is one of the first steps towards transitioning to the future of mobility. This not just ensures cleaner technology and sustainable mobility but also puts the Indian automotive sector ahead of its global counterparts. We have ensured BS VI compliance as mandated well ahead of time in the current portfolio to ensure a seamless experience for our existing and potential customers. We are confident that this will further enhance customer confidence in the brand and welcome more people into the world of pure motorcycling.”