2023 Royal Enfield Bullet 350: What’s New?

The biggest update on the new Bullet versus the old-gen Bullet is the new engine

• The J-series 349cc engine is something we’ve previously seen on the Hunter 350, Meteor 350 and the Bullet 350
• It also gets the new chassis that we’ve seen on the Bullet 350
• Royal Enfield has also given it more features when compared to its predecessor 

The Royal Enfield Bullet 350, known for its iconic status in India, has received a significant update for 2023. From more power to improved features and enhanced hardware, the Bullet 350 aims to maintain its dominance in the market. In this article, we'll delve into the key changes that make the new Bullet 350 stand out.

More Power!

The heart of the 2023 Bullet 350 is its brand-new 349cc engine, borrowed from the Meteor 350. This powerplant generates an impressive 20.2PS of power and 27Nm of torque. Notably, it includes a counterbalancer to reduce vibrations and resides in a redesigned twin downtube chassis. Despite the power increase, the weight remains unchanged, promising a better power-to-weight ratio. Recent test rides confirm that the new engine represents a substantial improvement over its predecessor.

The previous near 350cc engine felt underpowered and very out of place especially when you took it out on the highway. Even a 100kmph cruising speed was a struggle. But with the new one, a 100kmph or even a 110kmph cruising speed can be held without much discomfort. And most importantly, the bike’s vibrations have gone down. While purists will complain that it doesn’t have the thump now, the bike is a lot smoother now and it is something that riders will appreciate, especially on days when they’re riding the bike for long distances.

More Features!

One significant addition to the Bullet 350 is the inclusion of a fuel gauge, thanks to the all-new semi-digital instrument cluster. While the information provided is not extensive, it's worth noting that the setup is compatible with Tripper Navigation, available as an accessory. Furthermore, the 2023 model adopts switchgear inspired by the Meteor 350, aligning with the Bullet's retro aesthetic. This marks a significant departure from the dated all-analog setup of the previous model.

Better Hardware

The Bullet 350 has long been favored for Ladakh adventures, and the 2023 iteration takes comfort to new heights. Reshaped seats with thicker padding and a lower handlebar enhance rider comfort. Additionally, the bike's ability to handle rough terrain has improved, thanks to a beefier 41mm front fork, 6-step adjustable dual shock absorbers with increased travel, and 35mm more ground clearance. 

The wider front and rear tyres (100-section and 120-section, respectively) contribute to better cornering performance. Braking capabilities receive a boost with larger discs and ByBre calipers. Compared to its predecessor, these upgrades provide a significant improvement in off-road and on-road performance.

Slightly Better Looks

In the realm of design, Royal Enfield adheres to the age-old adage, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." The Bullet 350's timeless appearance remains largely untouched, with subtle refinements. Notable design updates include an updated headlight nacelle, a reworked tail light, a clearer headlamp mirror, and improved overall build quality. Furthermore, the 2023 Bullet 350 offers new color options and more captivating graphics with pinstripes while retaining its beloved old-school silhouette.

In the 2023 iteration of the Royal Enfield Bullet 350, the beloved no-nonsense retro styling remains largely unchanged. Royal Enfield has stayed true to the core design ethos. While there are subtle updates, such as a slightly shorter, boxy rear fender with a circular tail light (replacing the rectangular one), the overall look maintains the familiar elements. 

The fuel tank shape, side panel design, and front fender resemble those of its predecessor. This ensures that the iconic Bullet 350 design continues to resonate with enthusiasts.

Price

The 2023 Bullet 350 is priced from Rs 1,73,562 (ex-showroom Delhi) onwards. Considering the substantial enhancements in power, comfort, and features, this price increase appears justified.

So Is It Worth It?

Royal Enfield's new Bullet 350 is a well-executed update that doesn't lose its timeless charm. They've successfully modernized key aspects and addressed previous issues. This evolution maintains the Bullet 350's essence as an easygoing, old-school British single that fits seamlessly into the 21st century. It's likely to appeal to traditional Royal Enfield enthusiasts and attract new riders who were hesitant before. Plus, considering Royal Enfield's experience with the Meteor on the new J platform, reliability should be a strong point for Bullet 350 buyers.