The Royal Enfield Bullet 350, an enduring icon of motorcycling and automotive history, continues its legendary journey with the launch of the 2023 Bullet 350 by Royal Enfield, the global leader in the mid-size motorcycle segment (250cc-750cc). This new iteration, built on Royal Enfield‘s proven J-series engine platform, embodies over nine decades of heritage, blending timeless aesthetics and craftsmanship. It remains a symbol of the vibrant culture it has fostered over the last nine decades and the community it represents.
New Bullet 350 price and what’s new
- Rs. 1.73 lakh ex for Military Red and Military Black
- Standard Black and Standard Maroon at Rs. 1.95 ex
- Rs 2.16 lakh ex for Black Gold version
- 350 cc J series engine (Same on the Classics)
- Total 5 colour options
- 20 HP and 27 Nm
- Single piece seat
- New Handle bar
- Upright riding position
Reflecting on his personal connection with the Bullet, Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director – Eicher Motors Ltd, shared, “In the summer of 1994, I embarked on my first long solo ride across Europe on a Bullet, equipped with a tent and a spirit of adventure. That journey taught me valuable lessons, revealed aspects of myself, and left me with vivid memories that I still cherish 30 years later. Over time, I’ve heard countless stories of people, groups, families, and moments that have been touched by the Bullet, bringing joy and meaning to their lives, whether on a ride or over generations. This is the legacy of the Bullet that transcends time and eras, and it’s a legacy we are honored to carry forward as the Bullet enters a new chapter.”
Few motorcycles have stood the test of time like the Royal Enfield Bullet. Introduced in 1932, it boasted advanced features that were ahead of its time. In 1948, it revolutionized the motorcycling world with its swinging arm rear suspension, quickly adopted by other manufacturers. The Bullet’s capabilities, including its performance in tough terrains and service with the Indian armed forces, led to its production in Madras in 1955, establishing it as India’s road king for decades. Its reinvention in 2010 with the Royal Enfield UCE engine ensured it remained aspirational and retained its status as a cultural icon.
The Bullet has proven its versatility over its remarkable lifespan, taking on a wide range of tasks, from excelling in trials and international competitions to setting lap records on the Isle of Man. It has conquered the highest mountain passes, served as a dependable everyday motorcycle and a robust workhorse, and provided a versatile platform for customization. It has even gone into battle and been a loyal companion to more than a million passionate riders worldwide.
The Bullet is not just the longest-running motorcycle model in continuous production globally; it’s also deeply ingrained in India’s social fabric, often passed down from one generation to the next. It has spawned over 1200 riding clubs. For its devoted enthusiasts, “Bullet Meri Jaan” (Bullet Is My Life/Soul) is more than just a catchy phrase; it symbolizes authenticity, resilience, dependability, and individuality.
Now, this practical and dependable motorcycle carries its rich heritage, majestic presence, all-metal construction, torquey engine, and distinctive thumping sound into an exciting new era.
Discussing the launch of the 2023 Bullet, B Govindarajan, CEO, Royal Enfield, expressed, “To me, the Bullet has been an undeniable symbol of resilient engineering and aesthetics. It has endured war and peace with unflinching reliability and has been an ally for over 90 years to the bravest of the brave. Pinstriped and handcrafted by three generations of artisans, the Bullet has retained its regal appeal without surrendering to fads and whims. The uncluttered simplicity of its form is a sharp contrast to its sturdy dependability, its mettle and character. We have purposefully endeavored to retain the essence of the legacy of the Royal Enfield Bullet as it readies to transition to a new form and avatar and steadfastly rides on to a century and beyond.”
The 2023 Bullet 350 is powered by the modern and globally acclaimed 349cc air-oil cooled single-cylinder engine, also used in the Meteor, Classic, and Hunter models. This fuel-injected engine produces 20.2 bhp at 6100 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm, delivering robust low-end power, a smooth linear power delivery, and an invigorating ride experience. With a primary balancer shaft to reduce vibrations, the engine is responsive and refined, and the optimized 5-speed gearbox ensures crisp and smooth gear shifting.
The chassis is designed to provide predictable handling and maneuverability. It’s more rigid than previous Bullet models, instilling confidence at higher cornering speeds and stability on straight roads. This is further enhanced by the 41mm front forks and wider-section tires (100/90 -19 front and 120/80 -18 rear). The redesigned mudguards, improved proportions, stance, and aesthetic balance give the motorcycle a subtly evolved style. The 2023 Bullet 350 features a 300mm front disc brake and the option of a 270mm rear disc or drum brake.
The 2023 Bullet 350 is available in three distinct editions, each handcrafted with a premium finish. The Bullet Military Red and Military Black feature single-channel ABS, rear drum brakes, and single solid-colored tanks with classy decals. The Bullet Standard in Black or Maroon is equipped with dual-channel ABS, rear disc brakes, and boasts hand-pinstriped body-colored tanks and components, along with chrome and gold badges. The Bullet Black Gold stands out with its combination of matte and gloss black tank, copper and gold 3D badge, copper pinstriping, blacked-out engine and components, dual-channel ABS, and rear disc brakes.
All three editions share a distinctive 13-liter teardrop tank and the traditional Royal Enfield casquette that houses a new headlamp along with the signature ‘tiger eyes’ pilot lights, a feature present on Royal Enfield motorcycles since 1954. Modern touches include the new digi-analog instrument cluster with an LCD information panel and a standard USB charging point below the handlebar. The rider’s controls have received meticulous attention to design, fit, and finish, with beautifully styled rotary switch cubes that combine ease of use with retro appeal.
To complement the 2023 Bullet 350, an ecosystem of 37 Genuine Motorcycle Accessories is available, including nine specifically designed for the Bullet. These accessories include comfortable touring and low-rise seats and touring handlebars. Quality riding gear, including helmets and apparel with details inspired by the Bullet’s legendary pinstriping, is also offered.
The global audience can book the Bullet starting from September 1 in India, with retail and test rides beginning on September 3, 2023. The ex-showroom prices for the motorcycle are INR 1,73,562/- for the Military Black and Red, INR 1,97,436/- for the Standard, and INR 2,15,801/- for the Bullet Black Gold. The new Bullet 350 will be available in Europe in the next quarter and will be launched in a phased manner across SARRC, APAC, and the Americas.
The Bullet is a motorcycle like no other. True to its heritage yet updated for each new generation of riders, it embodies Royal Enfield’s ‘pure motorcycling’ DNA. Royal Enfield believes that now is the time for the world to rediscover the Bullet, appreciating its authentic style and timeless resilience once more.
