Royal Enfield Bullet 350 Price, Mileage, features and specifications

The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 has attained an exalted status over seven remarkable decades as an iconic retro cruiser affordable to the average Indian bike enthusiast.

Royal Enfield Bullet Through The Ages

The journey of this quintessential Indian motorcycle spans over seven colorful decades:

1950s – Made-in-UK Bullets gain popularity across India for their reliability and effortless appeal

1960s – Indian government starts local assembly in old Tiruvottiyur factory, using CKD kits

1970s – Tooling shipped to India; production progressively localized over years

1980s – Various Bullet variants introduced including 350cc and 500cc versions to widen appeal

2000s – All-new Unit Construction Engine launched with fuel injection and oil filter

2010s – Focus shifts to expanding model range from Continental GT to Interceptor INT650

2020s – Bullet 350 Series relaunched with tweaks reflecting modern tastes while retaining core DNA

Despite growing competition from ‘neo-retro’ models, the honest Bullet continues finding takers – testimony of its enduring design and straightforward character.

So what variant options exist today for potential owners? Let’s find out.

Bullet 350 Variants Available in 2023

Two main versions are offered catering to varying budgets and needs:

1. Bullet 350 ES

The Electric Start variant targets convenience besides adding desirability. Key features over the entry variant include:

• Self starter along with kick start backup
• 280mm rear disc brake for confident hard stops
• 41mm telescopic front forks; twin coilover rear shocks
• Classic paint schemes: Black, Maroon, Silver, Battle Green

2. Bullet 350 KS –

This kickstart only variant focuses maximizing affordability and practicality:

• Lower ex-showroom cost by approx. Rs 20,000 over ES
• Simpler 130mm drum brakes instead of rear disc
• Cost-effective suspension setup retaining good comfort
• Extended mileage through weight reduction
• Color choices: Black, Silver

Underneath the differentiating cosmetics, both Bullet 350 siblings share the same air-cooled, 4-stroke 346cc fuel-injected powertrain taken from the earlier UCE Bullets.

Now let’s explore complete ownership costs, finance schemes plus insurance specifics.

Ownership Cost Analysis

Here is a breakup covering purchase expenses plus recurring running costs:

On-road Price – Approx. Rs 1.9 Lakhs OTR for Bullet 350 ES / Rs 1.6 Lakhs for Kick Start variant (Bangalore prices)

Insurance – Around Rs 7000 per annum for basic private car policy covering third party liability

Finance – Interest rate of approx 5-7% on reducing balance loans up to 5 year tenure results in low EMIs starting from Rs 4500 per month onwards. Downpayment required from Rs 15,000.

Fuel Costs – Mileage of 35-40 kmpl under real world riding conditions means cost per liter of around Rs 1.3 – 1.5.

Service Charges – Labor plus spares total under Rs 1200 for first paid service at 500 kms. Slightly higher from second paid service scheduled every 5000 kms.

Spares & Consumables – Parts like brake pads, chain, spark plug etc are priced reasonably and don’t call for very frequent replacements owing to the bike’s strong reliability record.

Thus, both purchasing and maintaining the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 over years is designed to be easy on pocket through reasonable spares plus operating expenses. It stays faithful to its practical roots thriving in India. Now onto accessorizing options!

Accessories For Enhancing Functionality

Here are 7 purpose-built accessories to deck up your Bullet 350 without compromising essential functionality:

1. Engine Guard – Heavy duty metal guard bars to protect engine covers and crankcase against minor falls or accidents. A must have!

2. Saddle Stays – Additional side brackets helping secure unwieldy luggage to pillion seat. Ideal for long highway journeys.

3. Auxiliary Lamps – Rugged spot lights or LED fog lamps enhancing illumination during night rides or inclement weather.

4. Mobile Charger – Compact waterproof USB charger fitting seamlessly into bike’s DC charging socket. Uses phone’s existing cable.

5. Handlebar Risers – Aftermarket handlebar raisers help tailor ergonomics by raising the bar position by 25-50mm for comfort during long rides. Easy DIY install.

6. Radiator Guard – Durable steel mesh guards protecting fragile radiator assembly and cooling fins against debris damage.

7. MicroPU Seat – Superior comfortable single person and tandem dual textured seat foam enhancing comfort levels by a big margin. Worth the upgrade.

Upholding A Legacy With Care

Being the current custodian of an iconic motorcycle like the Bullet brings both privilege and responsibility. Here are 5 tips to preserve heritage:

1. Regular Maintenance

Stay diligent about scheduled servicing every 5000 kms/6 months involving tune-ups, fluid changes, adjustments and condition checks to safeguard mechanical health.

2. Quality Upgrades

Consider purpose-built accessory upgrades to enhance rideability, durability and safety margins – important for a bike crossing half a century!

3. Appearance Matters

Maintain top notch appearance through regular tire, chrome and paintwork pampering to keep corrosion and aging at bay.

4. Pre-Restore Before Problems Arise

As Bullets cross 15-20 year lifespan, get full mechanical restorations done involving rebores, bearing changes etc rather than temporary fixes to keep them running reliably just like the 60s and 70s.

5. Impart Learning

Pass down your maintenance rituals, riding habits and the legacy of this fine machine to next generations so the Royal Enfield name thrives for eternity!

Owning an evocative classic like the Bullet is a labor of love demanding time, money and effort unlike modern bikes – but one that returns joyful miles while forging priceless memories!

Customization Ideas For Standing Out

While its trademark retro form remains universally appealing, subtle customs tweaks help your Bullet forge a unique identity:

Paint Schemes – Timeless two-tone motifs, hand painted fine lining & pinstriping, visual motifs like eagles/floral patterns or inspirational quotes add flair.

Custom Seating – Blend modern seating comfort with classic looks through custom done foam in vibrant shades topped with contrast stitching and base indents.

Exhaust Customization – Performance slip-ons like GoldStar combine traditional exhaust note with mild horsepower hike. Or hand-crafted Manalsar units in chromed or blacked out finishes.

Add-ons – Consider bar end mirrors, fork gaiters, machined billet levers & pedals, colored brake lines/coolant hoses and grips to mix functional touches into the visual feast without going overboard.

Building upon a timeless base, subtle personalization makes your Royal Enfield truly one-of-a-kind!

Touring Ability & Practical Tips

Belying perceptions of being only city slickers, Bullets make perfectly capable light tourers as shared by avid members of road-tripping clubs like Bike Nomads. Some key pointers:

Luggage – Soft pannier saddle bags avoid width issues associated with fixed boxes in congested roads. Waterproof liners protect contents from rains. Hard cases best reserved for highways. Expand total capacity up to 50 litres for extended touring.

Riding Range – Low stressed engine easily covers 300 kms before refueling with relaxed speeds of 80kmph; mileage hovers in 35-40kmpl range. Reduces to 25kmpl burning rubber at triple digit speeds. Limit non-stop legs to max 250 kms for ride quality. Carry fuel hose for contingencies.

Community – Explore routes and trip planning insights from seasoned Bike Nomads in online groups. Learn about multi-bike packing strategies, reliable routes and proven gear.

Hazards – Be alert to stray cattle, wild herbivores crossing highways alongside landslides especially across treacherous streches. Ensure functioning electricals, signals & hazard lamps.

Ergonomics – Custom rear set pegs centralize masses; reduced handlebar width lessens fatigue over multi-hour rides. Air hawk seat insert deflates tailbone strain. Highway comfort focussed iterations like Redditch provide superior cushioning.

Thus, whether you dream of riding into breathtaking mountain vistas or coveting quaint coastal highways, a Royal Enfield Bullet adjusted to distance work makes the perfect ally!

Addressing Common Problems

While the trusty Bullet is renowned for remarkable reliability exceeding 1 lakh kms, some niggling issues can crop up occasionally so it helps staying aware. Here are 5 frequently faced ones:

1. Electical Gremlins

Sticky horn triggers, jammed speedo, dysfunctional indicators, ignition issues – the Bullet’s archilles heel! Use dielectric grease liberally on all connections. Reduce failure-prone fuse links, ensure good earthing.

2. Starting Troubles

Fouled spark plugs, gummed up carbs, low compression hinder cold starts. Follow proper maintenance routines. Short rides cause issues too – take minimum 30 mins highway spins.

3. Overheating tendencies

Air-cooled engines run hot. Monitor cooling system integrity, change hoses at advised life. Flush radiators, ensure fan intact. Upgrade oil cooler for severe operating environs.

4. Clutch Wear and Slippage

Replace plates once excessive pedal free play creeps in. Always use recommended fluids – wrong oils hasten wear. Adjust cables periodically. Bad driving habits like lack of rev-matching contributes majorly too.

5. Niggling Vibrations

Isolate root cause – engine mounts, loose panels, driveshaft misalignment. Ensure wheel balancing and alignments done well. Periodic fittings inspection eliminates loose nuts. Fit cushion mounts below supporting subframes.

Through diligent troubleshooting, minor niggles can be minimized ensuring the Bullet stays the reliable companion it built a reputation of – delighting owners over generations!

Expert & User Opinions About the Bullet 350

We sum up what leading automotive journalists, vintage motorcycle restorers and regular Royal Enfield owners feel about the Bullet 350’s capabilities in 2023:

“The 2023 Bullet 350 retains the unadulterated, old-world charm while enhancing riding experience through a more powerful UCE engine and well-tuned suspension. Rest easy that spares supply and garage support will continue unhindered – allowing you to enjoy many more happy miles with India’s favorite retro classic!” – Arun Mohan, Leading Vintage Bike Restorer

“While performance and economy take a relative backseat, there exists an indescribable allure to riding a Royal Enfield Bullet on lazy Sunday mornings, waving at fellow riders. Almost transports you back decades when basics like loyalty and simplicity mattered more. The latest Bullet 350 UCE gives me the same familiar vibe too which I love!” – Rohan Grover, IT Professional & Bullet Owner

“Naysayers keep pronouncing the demise of Royal Enfield’s legacy models in face of modern retros from Jawa, Honda & Benelli. But the honest, frugal Bullet continues finding patrons – like that faithful old hound comforting you after flashy newer breeds disappoint. There’s nothing quite like an Enfield!” – Adil Jal Darukhanawala, Leading Automotive Journalist

Evidently, despite advancing years the Bullet 350 soldiers on delivering joyful miles while tugging heartstrings – qualities money can’t buy!

Now let’s answer the most commonly asked buyer questions.

FAQs

The Final Verdict

The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 retains relevance among middle-aged riders through a winning formula – sincerity merged with straightforward design promising years of enjoyable riding. Given the decades of trust fostered, the 2023 Bullet 350 UCE variant feels like coming home – instantly familiar without trying too hard.

Sometimes, stripping away complexities is what brings real joy in machines engineered for simpler times when basics mattered more. The Bullet 350 carries forth this ethos while incorporating subtle improvements reflecting modern demands.

Despite more powerful and feature-laden rivals, the humble Bullet endures as a beacon of no-nonsense reliability for riders seeking old-world wholesomeness promising mile after blissful mile.

In an era of disruptions, this retro classic stands solemnly as a reassuring constant – connecting us to halcyon days gone past while promising new adventures wrapped in the same familiar warmth!