Royal Enfield’s Next Urban Bike Could Be The Meteor

[Update: The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 has been spotted in a production-ready state. The bike is likely to replace the Thunderbird 350X. Head here for more details.]

• The new series of motorcycles are likely to co-exist with the existing 349cc UCE models.
• These bikes will be the spiritual successor to the old 499cc bikes.
• Expect Royal Enfield to make an announcement at EICMA 2020.

Royal Enfield working on a new engine isn’t a secret. We have spotted multiple test mules running a brand new, mid-displacement, single-cylinder engine (called the J-platform) with distinctively different styles. This new engine is vividly different from the current 349cc UCE engine. A new Enfield was spotted once again, albeit without any camouflage.

It was initially believed that this new engine would replace the current 349cc UCE motor as it was unlikely to meet BS6 emission norms. However, Enfield has launched the Classic 350 BS6 and dealers have already begun accepting bookings for the Bullet 350 BS6. Speaking to dealer sources, we’ve learned that a Thunderbird 350X BS6 is also in the pipeline. Then, where does the new engine, and the different motorcycles that we have spotted, fit in the Enfield product portfolio?

Also Read: Is This The Bajaj-Triumph Rivalling Royal Enfield Roadster?

The current 499cc single-cylinder engine that Enfield has in its line-up is likely to be axed post April 1 as we haven’t heard any details about it being updated to BS6 emissions. The sales of the 500cc models have not been promising at all. Enfield could be looking to replace these bikes with the new J-platform. The Bullet, Classic and Thunderbird models share most of their parts. Similarly, these new Enfields will have a lot in common with few differences in terms of features, paint schemes or ergonomics.

Royal Enfield has already filed trademarks for a few names like Meteor, Sherpa, Roadster, Hunter and Flying Flea. We expect the bike with a scalloped rider seat and separate pillion seat to be called the Meteor while the test mule running a single-piece seat could be called the Roadster. Expect Enfield to reveal further details about the new engine by the end of the year at EICMA 2020.

Image credit: Gaadiwaadi