Want to buy the RE Classic 350: Need clarity on long term ownership

I am also wondering how the bike will behave once it is loaded up with some luggage and there is a pillion on board.

BHPian 2wheelsvaga recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hi all, I am looking to hear from people who’ve been using the RE Classic 350 since at least the last year.

I remember the old CI bullets were heavy but still came to around 167 kgs. At 195 kgs the Classic 350 is much heavier. Do you find it easy to handle this weight when you are out in the city?

I assume it allows for stability on the highways, but is there any way you felt disadvantaged because of this weight out on the highway?

I am also wondering how the bike will behave once it is loaded up with some luggage and there is a pillion on board.

Overall, the Classic 350 gives one a sense of compactness while riding it. Is this because of the placement of the foot pegs? Do you find that it is less tiring over long highway distances or not so good roads?

Are the maintenance costs of the Classic 350 much higher than the other REs? In particular, is the newly launched Hunter cheaper to maintain over the long-run?

Thanks!

Here's what BHPian themotprhead_doc had to say on the matter:

Hi 2wheelsvaga, I’ve been using the Classic 350 reborn since Jan’22 and it’s been a good experience with the bike albeit with a few niggles here and there.

The bike masks it’s weight well on the highways and once on the move in general. Yes the bike stays planted at speeds of 80-100 kmph( not that it’ll go beyond it comfortably).

The pillion comfort is really good as I’ve done all my city commutes with a pillion on board 70% of the time and none have complained about pains even in peak Mumbai jams. The fact that my STORMBREAKER (yes that’s what I call her) is equipped with the optional touring seats helps the matter.

The maintenance has been to the tune of 2-3k depending on the type of VAS you opt for, I usually opt for Teflon coating(my usage involves a GG tank bag most of the times) as it restores the gloss and finish. Without it your regular service should set you back by 1800-2000₹.

RE service is usually a hit or a miss generally, and my experience has been the same with the brand.

The drain hole near the fuel cap keeps clogging up frequently with no solution till date except for blowing pressurised air at regular intervals.

The major issue I faced was with the rear brake making a heavy metallic grinding noise since Dec’22 and the service centre guys experimenting over every possible component at the back of my bike. The issue has been traced to a faulty calliper of the rear brake which is now to be replaced under warranty.( Many cases seen on YouTube)

But what I can assure you is this machine will take you back in time to the good old days of relaxed riding. I’ve taken the longer routes, or missed that turn to my home and also heading randomly for a short ride without a second thought.

The Classic 350 Reborn is for sure a keeper.

I’ll be glad to help you with anything else that you might want to know.

Cheers,

Dr. Rishi S.

Here's what BHPian Skyline_GT had to say on the matter:

Here’s my opinion as a RE Std Bullet 350[UCE] owner and it’s been my daily ride for the past 5 years.

Yes the current crop of Enfields Bullet or Classic weigh approximately 200kgs and that holds true for both the current J series ones and the older UCEs.

The weight is manageable in city traffic and out on the highways. Even in slow city traffic where everyone is moving at snail’s pace the weight of the bike is right at the centre which means you’ll be able to manage the bike while on stand still and even when zipping through traffic. Ofcourse you cannot compare the zipping through traffic with the likes of a Splendor or Activa but even then it’s highly manoeuvrable. With a firm footing while on stand still you can manage easily in start stop traffic without having to worry about tipping the bike off.

On the highways the weight adds a plus point where you are more stable and crosswinds do not affect much compared to other lighter motorcycles. You are less likely to be thrown around by potholes at high speeds since the weight of the bike and the decent suspension smoothens out the ride quality.

Weight can only be a hindrance if you expect to brutal fast acceleration (the likes of KTMs) and catch up speeds be it in city or out on the highway in which case you’ll be disappointed. It’s after all a cruiser and is meant to be ridden at decent speeds where the current J series fairs much better than the UCEs. Loading up the bike with panniers and top boxes gives no disadvantages and the bike feels as stable as it is when unloaded.

The riding posture with respect to foot pegs is designed for comfort and you’ll rarely feel any physical strain while riding it.

When it comes to maintenance my Bullet is serviced only at RE service shops and the maintenance and running costs are well within check. Expect the service costs to be around 1.5k for the first two years and around 3k after that. The current J series have a service interval of 6 months compared to my UCE Bullet which requires a service every 3 months or 3000 kms whichever comes earlier. This 3 months service interval is only specific to BS 4 UCE Bullets not including the Classic of same vintage.

Pro Tip - If you’re really worried about managing weight at slow traffic speeds get leg guards for both front and back. They prevent the bike from completely falling over flat on its side and even if you manage to tip it the front and rear leg guards make sure that the bike only lands at around 45 degrees lean angle instead of a complete 90 degree flat fall. I’ve managed to tip it twice in slow traffic and it was completely my fault as I hadn’t set my foot down firmly.

Here's what BHPian Sid_W had to say on the matter:

Although many members have beautifully answered your queries.

I like to add my piece, I have owned classic 350 from 2015. Most consider Royal Enfield (specially UCE) unreliable but mine has not shown any major issues, only regular service is done.

Regarding the weight of the bike, it can be a problem in incline when reversing (I'm 5'5) but other than that once you are habitual you can ride it in city easily.

Also due to torque of engine, it can still manage 80-90 km/hr with a pillion.But you have to understand its not fast as KTMs and will not be helpful above these speeds. You will have to work the engine, which is followed by vibrations (Talking for UCE don't know about J series).

Also regarding riding on gravel, one has to be careful due to weight at rear it can be slippery sometimes. Have met my fair share when I newly owned it.

I have not installed tour seats but I regularly do 350+ km rides.(mix of city, highway and hills) With occasional breaks like after 75km (it is doable). So comfort wise its no problem. Moreover long rides also depends on ones physical fitness. Also gear ratios help certainly

I will recommend to find a good local mechanics once your warranty period is off. It will be more cheaper and you will be spared from Service center attitude. I generally order engine oil online and then go for servicing to make it cost effective. Also I find the parts are cheaper compared to other bikes in this price range. My bikes routine service takes about Rs 2000-2500.

Also if you decide to buy it, make sure to go to hills. Its torque is addictive.

P.S. don't change exhaust. Some are very loud plus irritating and also illegal.

Hope it helps.

Regards.

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