The 2023 Royal Enfield Bullet 350 has been launched at Rs 1.74 lakh (ex-showroom), making it around Rs 19,000 more affordable than the Classic 350, and roughly Rs 24,000 more expensive than the Hunter 350.

Prices start at Rs 1,73,562 for the Military Red and Military Black versions, go up to Rs 1,97,436 for the Standard Maroon and Standard Black guises, and top out at Rs 2,15,801 for the Black Gold scheme. The base-spec Military versions sport a rear drum brake, while the higher variants get a rear disc.

The new Bullet 350 is now underpinned by the same J-platform architecture that forms the basis for the Hunter 350, Classic 350, and the Meteor 350. As a result, it uses the same air-cooled, 349cc single-cylinder engine, producing the same 20hp and 27Nm as it does in the Classic 350. This engine is also housed in a new frame, suspended on a conventional telescopic fork and twin shock absorber set-up. The Bullet 350 gets a 300mm front disc brake; higher-spec versions get a 270mm rear disc brake.

Speaking about the launch, B Govindarajan, CEO, Royal Enfield said “To me, the Bullet has been an undeniable symbol of resilient engineering and aesthetics. It has endured war and peace with unflinching reliability and has been an ally for over 90 years to the bravest of the brave. Pinstriped and handcrafted by three generations of artisans, the Bullet has retained its regal appeal without surrendering to fads and whims. The uncluttered simplicity of its form is a sharp contrast to its sturdy dependability, its mettle and character. We have purposefully endeavoured to retain the essence of the legacy of the Royal Enfield Bullet as it readies to transition to a new form and avatar and steadfastly rides on to a century and beyond”

Visual differences when compared to the Classic 350 include a single-piece seat, a different handlebar for a more upright riding position, rectangular side boxes, and a more squared-off rear fender. The tail-lamp housing is also different, though the tail-lamp itself is the same as the Classic's.

The Bullet is now available in five colours, some of them with a blacked-out engine finish. However, Bullet loyalists will be pleased to see that the iconic hand-painted gold pinstripes on the fuel tank continue with this new generation model. Via Royal Enfield's MiY configurator, buyers can also equip the new Bullet 350 with the Tripper navigation pod and alloy wheels.

As per the company statement, the new Bullet 350 will be available in Europe by the next quarter and will be launched across SARRC, APAC and the Americas in a phased manner.