Because most motorcyclists believe that a retro classic model is only really retro classic if it has wire wheels, many manufacturers have included them in the option package. At Royal Enfield they did it the other way around with the Classic 350, the Dark Stealth and Gun Metal Gray colors are now also available with aluminum cast wheels.
Last year, during the presentation of the Classic 350 in a mountain landscape somewhere in the south of France, we were already told that where the motorcycle would only be marketed with spoked wheels in Europe, special aluminum cast wheels for the home market in India in the accessory pack were housed. In contrast to us, cast aluminum wheels are seen as premium accessories in India.
When asked, it was further confirmed that those aluminum wheels would not be available in Europe, because there would be no market for them, but that was apparently a misconception. The British/Indian motorcycle brand has decided to equip two color schemes with the cast wheels.
As far as we’re concerned, mission accomplished, the new rims not only give the Classic 350 a touch of vintage style, but thanks to their lighter weight, they also make a positive contribution to the steering characteristics of the bike. Lighter wheels mean a lighter unsprung weight and less energy, making the bike easier to steer and handling better.
Apart from the aluminum wheels, the Dark Stealth and Gun Metal Gray versions are exactly the same as the standard version, so with the same 349cc single cylinder that produces 20.2 hp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, a five-speed gearbox, a single disc brake front and two-channel ABS.
The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 with cast wheels is available in the Netherlands from €6,449 including a 3-year warranty, 3-year roadside assistance and free Rider Club of Europe membership. If it’s still too bare (or standard) for your liking, Enfield has put together an extensive accessory package for the Classic 350.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.