Royal Enfield Bullet 350

The 2023 Bullet 350 retains its iconic silhouette, featuring signature elements like the hand-painted pinstripes and classic badging. It is available in five color options across three variants, including the eye-catching Standard Maroon and Black Gold for the top variant. Ergonomically, the Bullet offers an upright riding position with a single-piece ribbed seat and taller handlebars, making it comfortable for long rides​.

The overall design is nostalgic yet functional, with minor updates to improve aesthetics, such as the cleaner fuel tank and improved fit and finish. However, there are areas where the build quality could have been better, such as exposed electrical wires and frame welds

The heart of the new Bullet 350 is the 349 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled J-series engine, which produces 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. This engine, shared with the Classic 350 and Meteor 350, offers smoother and more refined performance compared to the older pushrod architecture. The long-stroke character of the engine is retained, providing the iconic thump and low-end torque that Royal Enfield fans love​.

The Bullet 350 is not built for speed but excels in relaxed riding. Its ideal cruising speed ranges between 85-95 km/h, and while it can reach a top speed of 115 km/h, the bike feels most comfortable at lower speeds, providing a calm and unhurried riding experience​

The 2023 Bullet 350 offers an improved riding experience, thanks to its dual-cradle frame and updated suspension. 

The ride quality is plush, soaking up bumps and rough road surfaces with ease. Whether on city roads or rougher terrain, the Bullet remains planted and stable. It’s not a sporty bike, but its handling has been significantly refined, making it easier to maneuver while maintaining the relaxed, laid-back fee

With a seat height of 805 mm and an optional lower seat height of 785 mm, the Bullet 350 is accessible for riders of various heights. The wide and comfortable seat ensures long-distance comfort, and the bike’s 195 kg kerb weight feels manageable. 

The suspension and frame enhancements contribute to a smooth and steady ride, offering comfort even over longer journeys​

The Bullet 350’s instrument console is similar to the one found on the Classic 350, featuring an analog speedometer and a small digital screen displaying the odometer and fuel gauge. Unfortunately, the bike lacks modern conveniences like a gear position indicator or distance-to-empty readout, which would have been useful additions. The Tripper navigation pod is available as an optional accessory

While the bike doesn’t come with a lot of tech, it stays true to its minimalist design philosophy, appealing to those who prefer a simple and classic motorcycle

The new J-series engine is not only smoother but also more fuel-efficient. Riders can expect mileage figures of around 35-40 kmpl, making the Bullet 350 economical for daily commutes as well as weekend rides

Starting at ₹1.74 lakh, the Bullet 350 is priced competitively given its legacy and improvements. The Standard model is a great value option, while the top-spec Black Gold variant, priced at ₹2.15 lakh, offers a more premium experience. Despite a few shortcomings, such as the lack of modern features and minor quality issues, the Bullet remains an iconic motorcycle that delivers on its promise of a relaxed and refined riding experience​

Royal Enfield’s expansive service network ensures that Bullet 350 owners will have access to affordable and convenient maintenance services. Known for low maintenance costs and easy access to parts, owning a Bullet 350 is hassle-free in the long term​

The Bullet 350 competes with models like the Jawa 42 and Honda H’ness CB350. While these competitors offer modern features and more refined engines, the Bullet 350 stands out for its legacy, charm, and unique riding experience. Riders looking for a retro motorcycle with modern upgrades and an unmatched cultural history will likely choose the Bullet over its rivals​

The 2023 Royal Enfield Bullet 350 successfully retains its timeless appeal while incorporating necessary modern upgrades like the J-series engine and refined chassis. While there are areas for improvement, such as fit and finish, it remains a reliable, comfortable, and enjoyable motorcycle for riders who prefer a slower, more relaxed pace. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new rider drawn to its nostalgic charm, the Bullet 350 continues to deliver a unique experience​