Can a die-hard supersport rider adapt to being on a Bullet?
The year was 2008, and a brand new Yamaha R15 rolled into my parking lot. At the same time, a friend of mine bought the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 (old cast iron). The difference between the two motorcycles was so stark that I developed a kind of hesitation towards all REs. It was from that moment that motorcycles, for me, had to be faired. Laid-back riding was for the weak and sportsmen rode sportsbikes. Yes, the opinion was immature but so was I. Many moons later – here I am giving the Bullet 350 another chance.
It’s Charming
The bike has an aura. Even in the parking lot, it feels like the big brother to all other motorcycles. Get on it and it makes you feel important or valuable. The unmistakable metal build, this back color and the spoke wheels all add up to the charm. Moreover, the halogen headlamp is the cherry on top of this old-school cake. You won’t notice this motorcycle in a parking lot but when you pay attention, it keeps on getting better.
Smooth Operator
I loved riding the new Classic 350, and the only change the Bullet has that matters is the seat – that makes the Bullet even better. The seat is focused on comfort, and with a suspension tuned for the same thing – you get a motorcycle that makes you feel like you are gliding on the road. It’s heavy – which helps the motorcycle feel planted on tarmac, and it eats broken city roads for breakfast.
Grandpa
The bike is not all sorted. What I picked up on in the first 500km with the motorcycle was that the clutch is very heavy. The heel and toe shifter, though convenient, is not the smoothest and while overtaking or getting on the power, the front numberplate rattles so much that it overpowers the sound of the engine. On the highway – the 5-speed gearbox has a need for a 6th and windblast is.. blasty.
Plan Forward
The Bullet 350 is already a popular motorcycle in the office. In the next 6 months, we will take it to various cities, on a trail, commute on it, do a mileage test and also take it to a track, because why not? Stay tuned to BikeDekho for monthly updates around the Bullet 350, a.k.a Dharmendra.
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