Royal Enfield Classic Models Set For Upgrade

The Classic 350 and the Classic 500 will borrow parts from the RE Thunderbird

Royal Enfield is planning to upgrade the Classic 350 and Classic 500. Leaked RE documents suggest that the new Classic models will get improvements in the areas of braking and dynamics.

The Classic 350 and 500 are expected to get the swingarm and rear disc brake from the Royal Enfield Thunderbird. The move from a tube-type swingarm to a box-type swingarm will give the rear more rigidity and also reduce swingarm flex. This, in turn, is expected to improve the handling dynamics of the Classic models. For braking, the Classic models currently use a 280mm front disc and a 153mm drum at the rear. The addition of a 240mm rear disc from the Thunderbird would make braking a lot more efficient. This move also makes it easier for Royal Enfield to retrofit ABS in the bikes with the government making ABS mandatory in bikes with engine capacities above 125cc, after April 2019. 

Apart from the mechanical additions, the new bikes are expected to get cosmetic updates as well. The Classic 350 will get a new paint shade called ‘gun grey’. The solo seat gets a tan seat cover instead of black. The Classic 500, on the other hand, gets a new paint shade called ‘stealth black’. Chrome bits like the exhaust and handlebar have been replaced with black. The spoke wheels too have the rims and hub painted in black. 

The updated Classic models could be showcased at the upcoming EICMA motor show. Stay tuned for more updates.

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