We’ve gone on and on about how Royal Enfield’s been killing it recently with all of its new model releases. In fact, some of you were quick to speculate that we were all a bunch of Royal Enfield shills here on RideApart.
And while that couldn’t be further away from the truth (although, if you’re reading this, Royal Enfield, and would want to throw some money our way, you know how to get in touch hint, hint), what is the truth is that Royal Enfield’s recent model releases are praiseworthy, to say the least.
Now, I just got back from testing one of the brand’s newest bikes—stay tuned for the review in a week or so—but as I’m working on gathering my thoughts about that particular bike, yet another RE machine has popped up into the scene.
This time around, it’s based on the brand’s J platform; that’s to say its 350 series, and it seems like proof that the brand is going even deeper into the whole custom-build-from-the-factory aesthetic.
It’s based on the Classic 350, and it’s called the Goan Classic 350. It sets itself apart from the rest of the 350 lineup, and even RE’s entire lineup, as it’s the first true bobber-style motorcycle from the Indian manufacturer. It features all the hallmark attributes of a bobber, including a high ape hanger-style handlebar, a non-existent tail section, and typical classic cruiser styling.
RE’s gone mad with the bike’s colorways, too, offering it in a range of eye-catching, totally-not-subtle hues like Purple Haze, Trip Teal, and Rave Red. But of course, there’s a Shack Black option, too, for those who want a muted overall aesthetic.
The bike’s powered by the same old 348cc air and oil-cooled single, and with 20 ponies on tap, it’s a bit weak to conquer US freeways, but more than powerful enough to provide a fun ride in and around the city—especially if said city is as tight and congested as those of India’s. The bike’s underpinnings are also said to have been tweaked slightly, as the bike has a longer swingarm than the Classic 350 to accentuate the whole bobber aesthetic. It also rolls on cross-spoke wheels shod in tubeless tires, giving the whole thing a more custom look and feel.
As of the moment, there’s no word if this custom-looking machine will make its way stateside, but I’m certainly hoping it does. It’ll surely be an interesting option in the entry-level segment and will give bikes like the Honda Rebel 300 a run for their money. Plus, its custom styling will surely be all the rage among folks whose Instagram aesthetic embodies their entire lifestyle.
Source: Royal Enfield
