2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350, Track Test

The Classic 350 has been the best-selling retro-styled motorcycle not just in India but across the globe. If you are looking for an easy to ride, affordable, comfortable, well-built, and pure modern retro motorcycle, then you need not look any further than the Classic. It’s well-loved by millions across the globe. For 2021, Royal Enfield brought in a completely redesigned and re-engineered Classic 350, and it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that it has exceeded all expectations.

When we first rode the bike, we were completely blown away by its build quality. We already knew, after riding the Meteor, that Royal Enfield has improved the quality of its lower-capacity machines by leaps and bounds. So, we had great expectations from the Classic 350, and with its new paint schemes and incredibly appealing retro design, it didn’t disappoint us. No wonder then that the Classic 350 scored very well in terms of quality and design. In the single-seat configuration, the Classic will look even more outstanding.

At the heart of the new Royal Enfield Classic is a brilliant new 350cc single-cylinder engine, which still thumps like a 50-year-old motorcycle. The engine is now more refined and feels fantastic. It’s got plenty of raw torque across the rev range. This engine makes riding the bike such an enjoyable experience, regardless of whether you are riding in the city, on the highway, or around mountains. You can ride the bike nice and easy, enjoy the feel of its classic nature, and sweep through nice twisty sections of the road, all thanks to its wonderful riding dynamics.

The comfort levels of the bike have also improved drastically, and with the new seat and better ergonomics, the Classic is great for all kinds of riders. The Classic feels strong and sturdy, and thanks to its new suspension, it sails over paved roads. It’s such a wonderful experience to ride this motorcycle! It is also good in the city as an everyday commuter, as you will find out in our long-term report about the bike in this very issue.

One of the best aspects of the Classic 350 is that it makes the rider feel comfortable and confident at all times. Now, with dual-channel ABS, the Classic 350 can claim to have at least one new-age feature. Other than that, it’s a pure motorcycle, which offers you the best expression of a proper retro experience. The Classic 350 scores high in almost all parameters, and it’s perhaps the most well-rounded motorcycle we rode this year.

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 would have been the highest-scoring motorcycle of the lot, had it not been for its poor lap time, which frankly isn’t expected of the Classic. We also obviously don’t expect the Classic to have any sporty character, but it offers a riding experience unlike any other bike in its price range. It also happens to be the cheapest motorcycle in its segment, and thanks to the large Royal Enfield network, the ownership experience is also great, with low maintenance costs.

Being the one true king of the modern retro segment in India, the Classic 350 scores well in the X-factor category. It’s a no-nonsense motorcycle that rides incredibly well and truly gives the rider a sense of a classic, but a modern, motorcycle. Now, with a new design, beautifully refined engine, better comfort, and fun and easy handling, the Classic 350 is, without a doubt, one of the best motorcycles available in the Indian market right now.

Best of 2021 << BACKNEXT >> Ather 450X, Track Test