Royal Enfield Bikes in India

Key Highlights of Royal Enfield Bikes

About Royal Enfield

Latest Update on Royal Enfield

• The Himalayan 450 and the Shotgun 650 are the latest bikes launched by Royal Enfield in late 2023 and early 2024, respectively. 

• The manufacturer also plans to launch more bikes based on the 450cc liquid-cooled Sherpa engine and 650cc parallel twin platforms. Hunter 450 was recently spotted testing, it will be based on the Himalayan 450's platform. 

• Moreover, Royal Enfield has also launched new colour options for the Hunter 350 and Bullet 350. 

• The manufacturer revealed a flex-fuel Classic 350 that can run on 25 percent petrol and 85 percent ethanol blended fuel. 

• Royal Enfield has also updated the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT650 with alloy wheels and tubeless tyres, along with new switchgear as well. 

• Currently, the company is also working on a Royal Enfield electric bike, but according to the company MD, Siddhartha Lal, this will be aimed at city commutes rather than long highway rides.

Is Royal Enfield an Indian company?

While deeply embedded in Indian culture, Royal Enfield's roots actually trace back to 1901 England. In 1949, K. R. Sundaram Iyer launched Madras Motors to import British motorcycles into India, including Royal Enfields. In 1952, Madras Motors received an order from the Indian Army for 500 350cc Bullets. The motorcycles arrived from Redditch, UK, in early 1953 and this was really the beginning of India’s love for the Royal Enfield Bullet. It was after that, in 1955, that Royal Enfield collaborated with Madras Motors to form Enfield India to open a factory in Thiruvottiyur, Tamil Nadu to assemble Bullets from kits shipped from the UK.

After Royal Enfield’s Redditch factory closed in 1967, Enfield India still kept manufacturing Bullets under license from Royal Enfield UK, and then later in 1977, started importing these Indian-made Bullets to the UK and Europe. In 1994, Royal Enfield was acquired by the Eicher Group, an Indian company that manufactures tractors and commercial vehicles, making it proudly Indian in ownership and operation.

Today, Royal Enfield is a global brand with a loyal following among enthusiasts and riders. The company's motorcycles are sold in over 60 countries around the world, with a growing presence in markets like the United States and Europe.

Where are Royal Enfield bikes made in India?

Royal Enfield produces its bikes in three facilities in India, all based in Tamil Nadu - Thiruvottiyur, Oragadam and Vallam Vadagal. The company has almost 350 dealerships spread across India with Royal Enfield planning to expand its network to over 500 dealerships by the end of 2024.

Which Royal Enfield to buy?

Choosing the right Royal Enfield bike depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here's a breakdown of the different types of models they have on offer:

Retro Roadsters:

Hunter 350: The new entry point into the Royal Enfield family, the Hunter 350 uses the same 350cc engine from the new Classic 350, and is the company’s lightest and most compact bike yet, making it great for beginners.

Bullet 350: The OG Royal Enfield for India, the Bullet has been the longest bike in series production in the world. Available with a 350cc engine, the Bullet offers a classic, no-frills riding experience. Ideal for relaxed riding.

Classic 350: Modern take on the Bullet with a comfortable riding position and retro design. In fact, the Classic 350 is by far Royal Enfield’s most popular motorcycle, selling more than any other mid-capacity motorcycle in the country.

Interceptor 650: A cruiser motorcycle powered by a 648cc parallel-twin engine, the Interceptor 650's classic styling and modern features cater to riders wanting a blend of timeless style and contemporary performance.

Cruisers:

Meteor 350: Offers a user-friendly cruiser experience with its low seat, smooth engine, and good mileage. However, some riders may find its power and acceleration limited, especially on highways. 

Super Meteor 650: Royal Enfield’s most premium motorcycle, the Super Meteor 650 packs a punch for touring enthusiasts with its classic styling, powerful performance and modern features. 

Adventure:

Himalayan 450: A truly go-anywhere motorcycle, the Himalayan 450 is an adventure tourer that’s capable of tackling rough roads and long highway rides.

Scram 411: Based on the now discontinued Himalayan 411, the Scram 411 blends the capabilities of a scrambler with urban practicality. Powered by a 411cc single-cylinder engine, it offers balanced performance for both city commutes and weekend adventures.

What is the best Royal Enfield bike for beginners?

The Hunter 350 is the best Royal Enfield motorcycle for beginners at the moment, thanks to its lighter weight and compact dimensions. The Meteor 350, Bullet 350, or Classic 350 are good starting points too, owing to their manageable power and comfortable riding positions.

What is the best Royal Enfield bike for long rides? 

Himalayan 450, Scram 411, or Super Meteor 650 offer comfort and performance for long journeys. Even the Classic 350 or Meteor 350 make for great highway bikes, if you’re someone who doesn’t prefer a very high cruising speed.

Beyond the basics:

Royal Enfield is largely considered more of a cultural icon than just a motorcycle brand. Owning one is often about experiencing the legacy, the community, and the feeling of riding a piece of history. Consider researching different models, joining online forums and taking a test ride to learn more about the Royal Enfield bike of your choice before making a decision. Remember, the "best" Royal Enfield is the one that resonates with your personality, riding style, and budget.