Royal Enfield has taken the wraps off another new motorcycle, this time a 350cc Bobber named the Goan Classic
The Goan Classic celebrates the custom scene that is intrinsically associated with Royal Enfield. This is meant to be a bobber-style motorcycle, which is evident in the low stance and single seat layout. However Royal Enfield has gone to great lengths to ensure that the bike is also reasonably practical and comfortable. To that extent, it gets the option of a pillion seat which can be attached to the base of the rider seat and the rear suspension actually has more travel than the Classic 350 - 105mm vs 90mm.
The big change mechanically is the move to a 16-inch rear wheel (from 18-inch) while the front remains the same 19-incher as the Classic 350. What’s unique here is that the bike comes with spoked rims that support tubeless tyres, a first for this segment. The Royal Enfield Goan Classic also gets unique white wall tyres from Ceat.
The riding position is also different to the Classic 350, thanks to a lower seat height (750mm vs 805mm) and more forward-set footpegs borrowed from the Meteor 350. There’s also the taller mini-ape hanger handlebar that will result in a cruiser-style riding position.
The engine and main chassis remain unchanged with the 349cc motor producing 20.2hp and 27Nm. Kerb weight has gone up by two kilos to 197kg. Ground clearance remains the same 170mm and the Goan Classic also uses the same 13-litre fuel tank.
The new RE Goan Classic will be available in four striking colour schemes and it is the only 350cc bike to use the same metal switch cubes as the 650cc models. This is likely to be the most expensive of the 350cc Royal Enfields and prices will be announced in a couple of days at the company’s Motoverse riding festival.
Also see: KTM 390 Adventure S, 390 Adventure X likely to be revealed at IBW