IN PICS: The brand NEW Royal Enfield Bullet 500

The Bullet 500 is here and we are all drooling already!

When you think of the Royal Enfield Bullet bikes you get that nostalgic feel, which has always made this classic bike a winner, of the fifties and sixties. We all are probably aware of the history that goes with the legend of Royal Enfield; the British army used it in the sixties to trod on and through the rough and tough routes.

The new Royal Enfield Bullet 500 launched on April 12, 2013 has been priced at a whopping price of Rs 1,53,855 (on road price for Delhi). What is most fascinating about the model is that this time the company has kept the traditional 'Tiger Eyes' look alive with an all new refreshing and sturdier model.

Apart from all the traditional features, the motorcycle is a delight for both the rider and pillion with comfortable seating. It features a new pillion grab rail, which is aesthetically designed like a backrest to cushion an impact. The front wheel comprises of a disc brake while the rear comprises of a drum.

The new model is a highly modernised version of the legendary original machine, and continues to maintain its aristocratic lineage.

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Engine

Royal Enfield Bullet features a 499 cc, four stroke, single cylindered, twin-sparked, air cooled engine, which adds muscle to the specifications of this bike. Moreover, it offers a displacement of 84mm x 90mm.

The compression ratio offered by Bullet 500 is about 8.5:1, and comes with a maximum power output of 26.1 bhp at 5100 rpm, with a peak torque of 40.9 Nm at 3800 rpm.

The ignition system has a TCI unit, and the clutch is both multi-plated and wet. Last but not the least, while the gearbox supports a heavy duty 5 Speed Constant Mesh, the engine offers the options of both an electric, as well as kick start.

Dimensions

The wheelbase is about 1370 mm, and comes with a ground clearance of 135 mm.

The length of the bike is about 2140 mm while the width being 810 mm (without mirror).

Further, the bike measures 1110 mm (without mirror) in height, and has a kerb weight (with 90 per cent fuel) of 193 kg. Moreover, it has a fuel capacity of 13.5 litres, for an extended run.

Chassis and suspension

The Enfield Bullet 500 is one of its own types and comes with a single downtube, using the engine as the stress member.

The front suspension is about 130 mm, and is telescopic in nature, and offers a comfortable travel, while the rear suspension is about 80 mm, and consists of a twin gas charged shock absorber, offering a shock-free travel.

Overview

Although the new release of Bullet 500 has come as a surprise to Bullet freaks, everyone was expecting the much awaited 'cafe racer' to be launched a lot sooner. However, the good news is that the delay has not disappointed any of its fans and is reportedly being enjoyed by aspiring riders. One look and you'll know why it's been named as 'Classic'. It's a perfect blend of the modern and vintage styling.

It comes with a classic styled round headlamp and visible steel springs. The powerful bullet 500 sports 18" spoke wheels and a cool fuel tank with post war graphics. The thigh pads and the single saddle seat equipped with springs give this bike an extra benefit.

Moreover, the Royal Enfield has given a traditional look to the front number plate to maintain its sanctity.

The New Variants of Classic 500 are the Royal Enfield Classic 500 Chrome, and the Royal Enfield Classic 500 Desert Storm. Although both the variants are same in terms of engine and other tech specs, the classic chrome 500, features an all-over chrome finish, while the Classic Desert Storm 500 comes in a light brown shade with a matte finish.

The Classic Chrome has been priced at Rs 1.65 lakh, which is about Rs 10,000 more than the regular variant of Classic 500.

The Classic Desert Storm has been priced at Rs 1.58 lakh, which is about Rs 3,000 more than the regular variant of Classic 500. However, both the variants are powered by a 499cc, single cylinder engine which generates a maximum power of 27.2 Bhp at 5250 rpm and offers a peak torque of 41.3 Nm at 4000 rpm.

The Classic 500 Chrome is available in two shades: black and royal maroon. On the other hand, the Classic 500 Desert Storm is available in only one shade: light brown with matte finish.

There is one more variant of Classic 500 known as the Classic Military 500. However, it shall not be launched in India because the green shade is reserved for the Indian Army only.

The Bullet, since ages has been known as the bike for the rough riders, who mostly like to ride solo. The space and comfort level of the Classic Bullet 500 is addictive and this bike returns a fuel economy of around25-30 kms/litre in city conditions, while on highways, its mileage ranges between 32-35 kms/litre.

Undoubtedly, the Royal Enfield Classic 500 has no competitor in the Indian bike market. Exclusivity is the biggestUSP of this bike. Moreover, the performance and the ride quality of this bike, makes it most distinctive. We feel it's a complete value-for-money bike, and should be the first choice of the grown-up boys.