i like that RE is adding so much variety. i get why people are annoyed at there being 'too' many 350's now. my way of thinking about it is that its just like going to select your bike and seeing a bunch of different options, rather than just a few different paint schemes. I try not to think of them as a separate bikes in essence, just great variety that manages to cover all bases of people.
I had a Royal Enfield 250 crusader sports in the early 1960's. The red and chrome 350 classic has the same tank badge as that bike. The chrome tank was really cold to my legs on a cold morning riding to work. The crusader sports had a cush drive rear hub. Owing an Enfield helped me pass my motorcycle test, the examiner had a soft spot for Enfield bikes. The bike always brought good comments from the older generation who knew these bikes from the war. I may buy a 350 classic in red and chrome to remind me of my youth, even though I may be too old to ride it now.
I bought the classic in September last year after seeing your and other positive reviews about it. A really wonderful motorcycle! I chose the halcyon black color and can hardly wait for the break-in period to be over. I'm at 1500 km now, but now the German winter is slowing me down. But I can already say that the style, character, sound and handling of this bike are simply amazing! I'm really looking forward to spring with my great little royal enfield.
I just saw a Classic RE on the street. I loved all the details and how professional and well done all the parts are. I have a Triumph Bonneville T100 that looks really good but not as good as the Classic RE. I think when I get older and the my C90T and my T100 feel too heavy I will move to the smaller Classic RE. It looks just amazing and well done to the smallest detail.
Just bought a classic 350, first mod was a touring seat (more padding only £70) and a rack that replaced the pillion seat... what a special little bike, handles superbly, obviously not a lot of power, but for back road's its perfect
I own a 2022 interceptor 650 and just love it. However, I would love either of these. What a like about the classic though is the fact you can ride with just a single seat and it looks even cooler. But I also love the tank badges on the Bullet. So I guess I would buy both 😉! Thanks great post!
I love Bullets... I've had the pleasure of owning a 1969 from March 1993 to October 1999, A 1985 from May 2002 to May 2015, a 1976 from May 2015 to Oct 2016 and a 2021 BS4 ES from Feb 2021 to Oct 2023 and now the new 2024 Bullet 350 J-series 2 weeks old. I just love the feel of these bikes...
I bought a Classic in Bronze/Chrome, like your demonstrator, back in April 2022 when they arrived in the UK. Had there been a Bullet 350 available then I might have gone with it just for the heritage in the name. However the two models are technically identical and the Classic looks wonderful, especially in Bronze/Chrome. The Red/Chrome Classic seems to have sold more but when you compare the two side by side the Bronze paint has a beautiful metallic fleck in it, whereas the red is quite flat. The Classic rider seat is supremely comfortable for hours on end, the pillion seat is a little narrow but is separately detachable and could be swapped for a different type or a rack.
Nice vid as ever chaps - personally I'd have the classic, that Bullet seat just looks horrible to me (although I get that it may well be more comfy).....that said I would only likely use this type of bike for country lane ramblings of up to 50 miles in the summer, so big comfort isn't too much of a factor for me. Can't argue with the fun or value these bikes provide.....
Looking to buy the classic very soon. I like the polished engine, full mud guards, and two piece seat look. Great comparison and I especially liked the history points.
I went for a classic 350. The first reason for me to buy was the thought of tubeless tyres. If the classic’s tyre is punctured, I can just fill it with air unlike the bullet takes long time to refill the tube and all. I have the stealth black colour with a red strip on it. It looks really beautiful. Cruising at 40-80 gives the feel.
I think RE have done a great job in giving customers choice if you are looking for a classic looking 350 bike. Personally I would go for the Classic as I would have the chrome finish and remove the Passenger pad to have a single seat look, if I wanted a more blacked out look I think the decision would be more difficult. To be fair I would be happy with either.
I am from India and I recently bought a Bullet 350 (red military) ❤. It's a charm, there are no major vibrations, very comfortable 😁 In India we have options from base (single channel ABS with rear drum) mid (dual channel ABS) and top end (black gold, one on your video). I personally felt the base version was more value for money. Will share my experiences further with you folks.
Update after 9 months: 1. It's a charm to ride. 2. I ride it mostly in the city and it is super comfortable even in potholes and bad roads. 3. The full efficiency is not very impressive (33kmpl) in the city. 4. Not much vibrations, far more refined than the previous version. The J-series engine is superb The only down side is if you park in tight spaces or slight inclines you will get a good workout as it's heavy. But on riding the bike you don't really feel the weight.
@@jovinlobo would you recommend bullet to a person who is shifting from 125 cc motorcycle to a bullet? Does it requires skills to ride a bullet or a beginner with two year experience can buy it? Plz answer
Some commentators say the seat and 'bars are higher on the Bullet compared to the Classic. I have not had the opportunity to compare them myself. It is a pity no one offers "lifting" rear mudguards to aid tyre changes.
I bought the bullet black gold . Nice to use for evening ride or city ride nice and comfort with pillion. Do upgrade with powerrange slipon pipe you really enjoy the thumb drive 👍
The Classic, delves further back in history from a stylistic standpoint, which to me personally is the point at this price point (too many points here perhaps). The Bullet looks more like the Japanese cruiser styling of the seventies or eighties which I grew up with and I’d be looking for a change. Thanks for sharing guys!!!
Actually the classic is just a remodeled bullet, bullet is the longest continuous model from RE ,so much so that in india RE is known as bullet. The bullet is proper English design by RE Britain from mid 1930s.
Someone bellow commented on the actual price range for the Classic, £4459-4610 however they are available for £500 off at present due to the old distributor dumping their remaining stock (you can’t blame them) which my dealer says is buggering up the market, well at least for the dealers😢. Of course the non-blackout engines are polished aluminium not brushed or chrome or steel and they do require frequent polishing especially this time of year, I use Mothers polish with a polishing pad on a drill then spray with an engine protectant for winter riding. I’ve removed the cat and fitted a DNA filter and a FuelX Lite which as Darcy says gives it a lovely sound but more importantly a more willing and responsive engine. A touring seat and matching pillion look nicer than stock and more comfortable on longer rides, little difference on shorter though. Overall a nice little bike, easy to ride and handles pretty well but I would say it’s not all that engaging in the handling; I feel I bit detached unlike my W800 Cafe which make me feel it’s part of me; I never want the ride to end😅.
I want one if each, but im going to settle for the matte black bullet. Its begging for lots of miles and not much polishing or indoor parking. I love the classic looks and modern reliability the most. When i was young i did a ton of back road cruising and just enjoyed the little moments in life. I got into thousand mile trips at nearly 100mph the whole time, and thats gotten old. I long for the old days when small rides were an adventure. I think this bike will take me back.
Half the fun of owning a Royal Enfield is polishing it and answering questions when parked so the Classic wins this competition. Neither are A1 tourers so polished metal and chrome has to be the best.
You hit the nail on the head, sir. One of the great joys of owning a 1968 BSA Thunderbolt was keeping the aluminum engine cases polished. If it were a Honda or Suzuki, don't worry about it. With an old-time British bike keep those engines polished!
I have a Classic 350, I love it, the most pleasant bike I have ever had for back roads, but it lacks a bit of power when you need to stretch on highway. So I bought a Kawasaki W800, that’s a bike you should definitely review. Nevertheless I think I’ll keep my Classic as well, just can’t get rid of it 😉
I prefer the bench seat and blacked out styling of the Bullet over the Classic, but am surprised that the Bullet is the more expensive of the two. I would have thought all the chrome and the separated seats of the Classic would come dearer. (Though I still love my Hunter more!)
Bullet actually has a lower starting price (in India) for base variant with single channel ABS...the top variant (with blacked out engine) is almost neck to neck with classic chrome in terms of pricing
I also chose the Bullet. Will install some few accessories which would be the alloy from the dealer ,sump guard, knee guard (matte black) and l also the tourer seat with a backseat. Lastly I would switch the stock headlight bulb with a powerful one with the wiring and relay to handle the increase of wattage.
Got my Classic 350 about 1.5 years ago. At that time, the old Bullet, previous gen was on sale. The seat was hard, rusting metal parts, no rear disc brake and the hard painful plastic box on the side of the thighs. Classic felt more premium, more up-to-date and nicer.
They are very close indeed, and before the Bullet came out, the Classic was on my no3 short wish list. The Bullet made me reevaluate that list, but in the end i decided to stick with the classic for 2 purely aesthetic reasons. Well, one is semi-practical really. The former is the availability in chrome-bronze, which is the first case of a bike in brownish hews that i actually find appealing. The latter is the ability to swap the pillion seat for a very practical and visually classical looking rack. And if the comfort is the only issue (haven't really tried it yet), then changing the front seat is not a big deal too. I don't thing the Bullet's geometry allows for this.
You can order a Bullet seat that is a strait fit on the Classic ! I have just ordered the dark brown touring Bullet seat for my Halcyon Green Classic 😊
I went with Bullet mainly because both are the exact same bike in spec and standard Bullet happened to be the cheapest one of the bunch. Almost everything is interchangeable and can be easily mod later.
I'll keep my Classic 500 all day long. There is NO reason to go down further in hp. These are such beautiful machines and steeped in history but there is no replacement for displacement.
I had the Bullet 500 and loved it, one bike I wish I still had, wish they would bring out the 500cc It was green with the steel side bags, a go any where bike. If it came in a 500 cc I would be having one, but just not sure about a 350
Thanks for the video. Apparently, the Bullet is coming to Canada soon. I think I like the looks of the Bullet a bit more than the Classic. That badge on the side of the gas tank is especially nice. It would be nice if the RE 350 engine put out a bit more power.
Yep, 'form without function' - but why? - for the shape of a 'stamped heritage' behind? (Any resemblance between this remark & the tester's buttocks is purely coincidental : )
Classic is better looking to my eyes. I'd make it even better by removing the pillion seat and fitting a rack. Too much chrome though. I'd rather pay more and have stainless brightwear as I can't see chrome taking long to turn orange in the UK. Prefer the rear mudguard on the Classic as well. I get that the Bullet's is authentic in giving a nod to the hinged mudguard on the old Redditch Bullets, but it doesn't flow as well or look as sleek as the Classic's and unless it has the function of being hinged I can't see the point of it. Saying that, I might like the Bullet more in the brushed ally rather than mat black engine finish. I do like the gloss black paint scheme on the bodywork though. Do they do a black Classic with a black seat? If so that would be my choice.
I don't see where the extra value is in the Bullet over the Classic. But maybe it is just me because I thought the same about the Meteor vs the Classic...
Are the gas tanks the same exact shape? Aside from badging and knee pad, is the tank from the classic 350 identical to the bullet 350? It's nice to know the bullet has a softer seat. I had a 2017 B5, and the seat was like a rock.
@MrDarcy-OlMan Okay. The color scheme in the black and gold on the 350 bullet is so nice I'd consider picking one up when they come over the pond to the states. Great content thanks.
Bullet for me!. Still has the hand painted tank stripes like the old ones and the seat is super comfy! Dont like the fact that it is more expensive than the classic it used to be the other way around the bullet was the budget version??. Enfield are being a bit greedy there i feel!. Both lovely bikes though.
I can't understand why the Bullet costs more than the classic as the Classic seems better styled. Personally the clasdic seat is the most comfy seat of any motorcycle I've owned so again the classic would be my choice and nothing looks cooler than a classic Signals
I am 26. And i have currently pre-ordered this exact Bullet 350 (black-gold). It will arrive in January. But i still have kinda mixed feelings between the Classic 350 and the bullet. Have i made the right choice?
For years I rode a Matchless 500 single , very comphy low seat and balanced, but his kicker could get nasty, if you didn't use the comp release right. The Indians learned how to control the English overheating out in the southern colonies. I may well join the line for one of REs' 650's.
Love classic. I need to see bullet in flesh. I eagerly await classic 650 and I’m sure they’ll also do a bullet version. Will we get a 450 version in the future? 🤔
It will be the same chassis for sure but front forks, lights and cluster are like the classic 350. I hope they bring out a 450 version as well. @@_everydayelias
Just a name & Royal Enfield going back to the British days played with the Bullet & Clipper name bringing out in 63 to 65 a unit construction Bullet 350 that was little more than a larger capacity Crusader.
My pick is the Classic (with the Bullet seat). Maybe if I looked at all the Bullet colour schemes, I might change my mind and prefer a Bullet with a Classic seat (leave the pillion section off completely).
It is funny that the Bullet is priced higher, because the Classic was first introduced in India to be a more cosmetically premium alternative to the Bullet- wider rear tires, split seats, etc.
I rode both and then bought a Classic. It was a tough decision though. The bullet seat is more plush and comfortable, and I could flat foot on the Bullet, which I can’t on the Classic (I’m 5 ft 9 in with a 31” inside leg). So it may have the edge for shorter riders. However I preferred the looks of the Classic with the pillion seat removed and a rack fitted in its place. I don’t think that is an option with the Bullet, because as far as I’m aware the seats are not interchangeable.
I'm curious to know if that bench seat will fit on the Classic, visually I can't see why not? Remove the bracketry on the Classic and fit the 2 allen bolts at the grab rail 😮
Its MrT I currently have the classic 350 Stealth dark gunmetal matt grey if I waited I would have chosen the Bullet 350 but if the 500 was out it would be it great bikes I am from north Ayrshire
You mentioned that the bars were, supposedly, a little different. Did you find that to be noticeable and, if so, how? Does the exhaust note sound the same? I took a test ride on the Classic last summer and found it to be solid and absolutely beautiful. Imagine that same bike in a 30+ hp 500cc version.
I have driven the Classic, but only sat on the Bullet. The Bullet seems more comfortable, and they have corrected the position of the toe shifter so that I can get my foot beneath it, which isn't possible on the Classic, since the pedal is too low.
It’s a tough decision, I like the clean look of the bullets fuel tank, but I prefer the rear fender of the classic. Fork to my nose I think I’d pick the bullet
Question to those who have either bike: how is the bike on the highway/motorway going uphill? Because I love the the classic (and I really want one), I’m just concerned about going uphill while at speed.
All Bullets are Royal Enfields but not all Royal Enfields are Bullets. If you are purist just that pinstriping on the tank is reason enough to buy one. And that made me buy the Bullet 500 , seven years ago.
I'm surprised that the Bullet is more expensive than the classic, the Bullet has less bling than the Classic and it looks the cheapest to produce of the two. Having said that, if push came to shove, I'd go for the Bullet.
The polished engine is polished. Not brushed. Not chrome. The separate pillion seat is easily removed, making the Classic look better. Rectangle side covers vs ovals, squared off bottom line of the rear mudguard vs curved are the only real differences.
My choice is the bronze chrome Classic. Call me weird, but I get as much satisfaction cleaning my motorcycles as I do riding them. Both the Classic and Bullet need a bit more power for me, or maybe I should just lose 25 lbs / 2 Stone and thus achieve increased performance (of the bikes).
It’s funny, when the old bullet 500 was being discontinued a few years back, they couldn’t give them away for around £2600 if I remember. It looked the same, that awful badge in the tank. The classics however are selling for not even a third less than they were new at 5 years old. I like RE, but some decisions lately have made me scratch my head. The Aurora green Meteor for example *boke* correct me if I’m wrong, but there currently ten, yes ten Royal Enfield models. Meteor, Hunter, Classic, Bullet 350, Scram 411, Himalayan, Interceptor, Continental, Super Meteor, Shotgun 650. Variety is great, but dilution of the brand is risky. Just stop R.E.!
I chose the new Bullet primarily because of the seat. Both are great bikes but for me comfort for rider & pillion is paramount
I'd do that too, with the rack it's big enough to strap on a large enough bag for a week away. Without you've still got the pillion seat.
Will the Bullet come to America soon?
Comfer and contrroll more better in classic😅
Higher bars make it more comfortable for touring tooo.
@@thespeez bullet bike is in America. That's why they are reviewing it.
i like that RE is adding so much variety. i get why people are annoyed at there being 'too' many 350's now. my way of thinking about it is that its just like going to select your bike and seeing a bunch of different options, rather than just a few different paint schemes. I try not to think of them as a separate bikes in essence, just great variety that manages to cover all bases of people.
I think they got the inspiration from Harley's marketing strategy where there are many options to choose from.
I had a Royal Enfield 250 crusader sports in the early 1960's. The red and chrome 350 classic has the same tank badge as that bike. The chrome tank was really cold to my legs on a cold morning riding to work.
The crusader sports had a cush drive rear hub.
Owing an Enfield helped me pass my motorcycle test, the examiner had a soft spot for Enfield bikes.
The bike always brought good comments from the older generation who knew these bikes from the war.
I may buy a 350 classic in red and chrome to remind me of my youth, even though I may be too old to ride it now.
Doing my test on an MZ TS125 might have helped me to pass; I suspect I gained the sympathy of the examiner because I was riding it...
I bought the classic in September last year after seeing your and other positive reviews about it. A really wonderful motorcycle! I chose the halcyon black color and can hardly wait for the break-in period to be over. I'm at 1500 km now, but now the German winter is slowing me down. But I can already say that the style, character, sound and handling of this bike are simply amazing! I'm really looking forward to spring with my great little royal enfield.
Awesome to hear 👍🏼
I just saw a Classic RE on the street. I loved all the details and how professional and well done all the parts are. I have a Triumph Bonneville T100 that looks really good but not as good as the Classic RE. I think when I get older and the my C90T and my T100 feel too heavy I will move to the smaller Classic RE. It looks just amazing and well done to the smallest detail.
Just bought a classic 350, first mod was a touring seat (more padding only £70) and a rack that replaced the pillion seat... what a special little bike, handles superbly, obviously not a lot of power, but for back road's its perfect
What is the speed limit on your highways?!
it is 70mph 👍🏼
I own a 2022 interceptor 650 and just love it. However, I would love either of these. What a like about the classic though is the fact you can ride with just a single seat and it looks even cooler. But I also love the tank badges on the Bullet. So I guess I would buy both 😉! Thanks great post!
I love Bullets... I've had the pleasure of owning a 1969 from March 1993 to October 1999, A 1985 from May 2002 to May 2015, a 1976 from May 2015 to Oct 2016 and a 2021 BS4 ES from Feb 2021 to Oct 2023 and now the new 2024 Bullet 350 J-series 2 weeks old. I just love the feel of these bikes...
I bought a Classic in Bronze/Chrome, like your demonstrator, back in April 2022 when they arrived in the UK. Had there been a Bullet 350 available then I might have gone with it just for the heritage in the name. However the two models are technically identical and the Classic looks wonderful, especially in Bronze/Chrome. The Red/Chrome Classic seems to have sold more but when you compare the two side by side the Bronze paint has a beautiful metallic fleck in it, whereas the red is quite flat. The Classic rider seat is supremely comfortable for hours on end, the pillion seat is a little narrow but is separately detachable and could be swapped for a different type or a rack.
Nice vid as ever chaps - personally I'd have the classic, that Bullet seat just looks horrible to me (although I get that it may well be more comfy).....that said I would only likely use this type of bike for country lane ramblings of up to 50 miles in the summer, so big comfort isn't too much of a factor for me. Can't argue with the fun or value these bikes provide.....
The bullet seat feels and looks better quality in person imo
Looking to buy the classic very soon. I like the polished engine, full mud guards, and two piece seat look. Great comparison and I especially liked the history points.
I went for a classic 350. The first reason for me to buy was the thought of tubeless tyres. If the classic’s tyre is punctured, I can just fill it with air unlike the bullet takes long time to refill the tube and all. I have the stealth black colour with a red strip on it. It looks really beautiful. Cruising at 40-80 gives the feel.
WHAT about meteor 350? tubeless like classic?
I think RE have done a great job in giving customers choice if you are looking for a classic looking 350 bike. Personally I would go for the Classic as I would have the chrome finish and remove the Passenger pad to have a single seat look, if I wanted a more blacked out look I think the decision would be more difficult. To be fair I would be happy with either.
Great channel and thank you for your efforts, quality and content.
Meant to say 350 classic for me. :-)
Many thanks 😊
👍🏼
I am from India and I recently bought a Bullet 350 (red military) ❤. It's a charm, there are no major vibrations, very comfortable 😁 In India we have options from base (single channel ABS with rear drum) mid (dual channel ABS) and top end (black gold, one on your video). I personally felt the base version was more value for money. Will share my experiences further with you folks.
I have the old model bullet too much vibration
Share it now
Update after 9 months:
1. It's a charm to ride.
2. I ride it mostly in the city and it is super comfortable even in potholes and bad roads.
3. The full efficiency is not very impressive (33kmpl) in the city.
4. Not much vibrations, far more refined than the previous version. The J-series engine is superb
The only down side is if you park in tight spaces or slight inclines you will get a good workout as it's heavy.
But on riding the bike you don't really feel the weight.
@@jovinlobo would you recommend bullet to a person who is shifting from 125 cc motorcycle to a bullet?
Does it requires skills to ride a bullet or a beginner with two year experience can buy it? Plz answer
@bhaweshsahu5204 yes, you will be fine 👍🏼
Excellent presentation of these lovely bikes 👍
Both are excellent value for the buck, both will find their buyers, I suppose.
Some commentators say the seat and 'bars are higher on the Bullet compared to the Classic. I have not had the opportunity to compare them myself. It is a pity no one offers "lifting" rear mudguards to aid tyre changes.
I bought the bullet black gold . Nice to use for evening ride or city ride nice and comfort with pillion. Do upgrade with powerrange slipon pipe you really enjoy the thumb drive 👍
Wonder if they'll bore and stroke the motor to a 500cc,a bit more torque and maybe 30bhp?
The Classic, delves further back in history from a stylistic standpoint, which to me personally is the point at this price point (too many points here perhaps). The Bullet looks more like the Japanese cruiser styling of the seventies or eighties which I grew up with and I’d be looking for a change. Thanks for sharing guys!!!
Actually the classic is just a remodeled bullet, bullet is the longest continuous model from RE ,so much so that in india RE is known as bullet.
The bullet is proper English design by RE Britain from mid 1930s.
@@noone-zl2di But the new Classic looks more like a vintage bullet than the new Bullet.
@@smithyanthaya you didn't got the comment.
Someone bellow commented on the actual price range for the Classic, £4459-4610 however they are available for £500 off at present due to the old distributor dumping their remaining stock (you can’t blame them) which my dealer says is buggering up the market, well at least for the dealers😢. Of course the non-blackout engines are polished aluminium not brushed or chrome or steel and they do require frequent polishing especially this time of year, I use Mothers polish with a polishing pad on a drill then spray with an engine protectant for winter riding.
I’ve removed the cat and fitted a DNA filter and a FuelX Lite which as Darcy says gives it a lovely sound but more importantly a more willing and responsive engine. A touring seat and matching pillion look nicer than stock and more comfortable on longer rides, little difference on shorter though.
Overall a nice little bike, easy to ride and handles pretty well but I would say it’s not all that engaging in the handling; I feel I bit detached unlike my W800 Cafe which make me feel it’s part of me; I never want the ride to end😅.
I want one if each, but im going to settle for the matte black bullet. Its begging for lots of miles and not much polishing or indoor parking. I love the classic looks and modern reliability the most.
When i was young i did a ton of back road cruising and just enjoyed the little moments in life. I got into thousand mile trips at nearly 100mph the whole time, and thats gotten old. I long for the old days when small rides were an adventure. I think this bike will take me back.
Half the fun of owning a Royal Enfield is polishing it and answering questions when parked so the Classic wins this competition. Neither are A1 tourers so polished metal and chrome has to be the best.
You hit the nail on the head, sir. One of the great joys of owning a 1968 BSA Thunderbolt was keeping the aluminum engine cases polished. If it were a Honda or Suzuki, don't worry about it. With an old-time British bike keep those engines polished!
@@flatcapcaferacer classic bullet bike are good but you need to keep back seats.
I have a Classic 350, I love it, the most pleasant bike I have ever had for back roads, but it lacks a bit of power when you need to stretch on highway. So I bought a Kawasaki W800, that’s a bike you should definitely review. Nevertheless I think I’ll keep my Classic as well, just can’t get rid of it 😉
I have both too, love my W, a true retro like no other
A bit unfair comparisson. The W800 costs almost double the price of a classic 350.
I prefer the bench seat and blacked out styling of the Bullet over the Classic, but am surprised that the Bullet is the more expensive of the two. I would have thought all the chrome and the separated seats of the Classic would come dearer. (Though I still love my Hunter more!)
Yeah, I believe the Bullet is the cheaper one in India!
Bullet actually has a lower starting price (in India) for base variant with single channel ABS...the top variant (with blacked out engine) is almost neck to neck with classic chrome in terms of pricing
I also chose the Bullet. Will install some few accessories which would be the alloy from the dealer ,sump guard, knee guard (matte black) and l also the tourer seat with a backseat. Lastly I would switch the stock headlight bulb with a powerful one with the wiring and relay to handle the increase of wattage.
@5.25 classic in chrome bronze looks stunning
These are coming in a 650 twin version. I'm waiting for those.
Never once said “colourways” or “price point “ so that’s a big like from me.
Got my Classic 350 about 1.5 years ago. At that time, the old Bullet, previous gen was on sale. The seat was hard, rusting metal parts, no rear disc brake and the hard painful plastic box on the side of the thighs. Classic felt more premium, more up-to-date and nicer.
They are very close indeed, and before the Bullet came out, the Classic was on my no3 short wish list. The Bullet made me reevaluate that list, but in the end i decided to stick with the classic for 2 purely aesthetic reasons. Well, one is semi-practical really. The former is the availability in chrome-bronze, which is the first case of a bike in brownish hews that i actually find appealing. The latter is the ability to swap the pillion seat for a very practical and visually classical looking rack. And if the comfort is the only issue (haven't really tried it yet), then changing the front seat is not a big deal too. I don't thing the Bullet's geometry allows for this.
The bullet has been here forever
@@ohherewegoagain not in this configuration
I own a 92 fxdb-d and a 2021 Kaw zh2 but for some reason I really love these R.E. 350s.
I have the classic 350 in chrome and bronze and I really like it!! It looks a little more old school!
I like bits from both. I wonder if RE would do a mix and match service. I like the classic but prefer the seat and badging from the bullet.
You can order a Bullet seat that is a strait fit on the Classic ! I have just ordered the dark brown touring Bullet seat for my Halcyon Green Classic 😊
Thank you Mr Darcy and Cooper Motorcycles.
I went with Bullet mainly because both are the exact same bike in spec and standard Bullet happened to be the cheapest one of the bunch. Almost everything is interchangeable and can be easily mod later.
I still wish they brought back a 500 version of this engine.
That would be cool
If they brought back the 500, I hope they'd still feature a kickstarter. I also would hope the output would increase.
@@thespeezthere will be no kick start as the 650s are coming kickerless
I have one bullet 500 , bs 4
Just booked a Bullet Black Standard in Bangalore, India.
I'll keep my Classic 500 all day long. There is NO reason to go down further in hp. These are such beautiful machines and steeped in history but there is no replacement for displacement.
I had the Bullet 500 and loved it, one bike I wish I still had, wish they would bring out the 500cc It was green with the steel side bags, a go any where bike. If it came in a 500 cc I would be having one, but just not sure about a 350
650 is on the way - '25 I think
Thanks for the video. Apparently, the Bullet is coming to Canada soon. I think I like the looks of the Bullet a bit more than the Classic. That badge on the side of the gas tank is especially nice. It would be nice if the RE 350 engine put out a bit more power.
Re bullet rear mudguard: if only it did still fold up it would be so useful. Lots of them did including my 1959 Matchless G12
Yep, 'form without function' - but why? - for the shape of a 'stamped heritage' behind?
(Any resemblance between this remark & the tester's buttocks is purely coincidental : )
These two bikes are perfect for the type of roads you have been driving with them.
Would love a 650 version of these bikes!
Yeah me too
@@stevetaylor9265 Think one is coming!!!
On the way I hear
perhaps, but it would have a double exhaust, making it look a lot different.
I love the classic , however bullet wins it for me. Thanks for the review Darcy
First comment, was eagerly waiting for this... Nice
Hope you enjoyed it!
I Like it more black 👍 all that Chrome on the Cruisers is Not my Style
Nice Video 👍
I think getting mag wheels (like on the meteor) is an option on some of the the Classic models but not the Bullet.
Classic is better looking to my eyes. I'd make it even better by removing the pillion seat and fitting a rack. Too much chrome though. I'd rather pay more and have stainless brightwear as I can't see chrome taking long to turn orange in the UK. Prefer the rear mudguard on the Classic as well. I get that the Bullet's is authentic in giving a nod to the hinged mudguard on the old Redditch Bullets, but it doesn't flow as well or look as sleek as the Classic's and unless it has the function of being hinged I can't see the point of it.
Saying that, I might like the Bullet more in the brushed ally rather than mat black engine finish. I do like the gloss black paint scheme on the bodywork though. Do they do a black Classic with a black seat? If so that would be my choice.
People doesn't even call it royal Enfield 😂😂. Its just popular as bullet
bro, that's a good comparison review
I don't see where the extra value is in the Bullet over the Classic.
But maybe it is just me because I thought the same about the Meteor vs the Classic...
Thanks for that rumbling outro 🤩
Classic look is more appealing than Bullet350, Bullet350 design is very old fashioned and that very suitable if you purely love that old fashion...
For me the only better looking think on the Bullet is the Tank, others my choice would be the Classic 350.
Both are beautiful motorcycles. My favourite is the Classic 350 though.
Are the gas tanks the same exact shape? Aside from badging and knee pad, is the tank from the classic 350 identical to the bullet 350?
It's nice to know the bullet has a softer seat. I had a 2017 B5, and the seat was like a rock.
I’m pretty sure they’re the same 👍🏻
@MrDarcy-OlMan
Okay. The color scheme in the black and gold on the 350 bullet is so nice I'd consider picking one up when they come over the pond to the states. Great content thanks.
It's actually interesting that Bullet is more expensive than Classic in UK while it's vice-vera in India.
Bullet for me!. Still has the hand painted tank stripes like the old ones and the seat is super comfy!
Dont like the fact that it is more expensive than the classic it used to be the other way around the bullet was the budget version??. Enfield are being a bit greedy there i feel!. Both lovely bikes though.
I can't understand why the Bullet costs more than the classic as the Classic seems better styled. Personally the clasdic seat is the most comfy seat of any motorcycle I've owned so again the classic would be my choice and nothing looks cooler than a classic Signals
I am 26. And i have currently pre-ordered this exact Bullet 350 (black-gold). It will arrive in January. But i still have kinda mixed feelings between the Classic 350 and the bullet. Have i made the right choice?
@@Imtheonewhoknockss they are both lovely
What about the meteor? Where does that one fit in between these maybe?
The Meteor doesn't quite have the stylish looks by comparison, and is perhaps more work horse 👍🏼
Very good sharing
Good one Mr Darcy 👍
Many thanks 👍🏼
Im torn between the Bullet or a Signals Classic 350 ...yr right about that little single cylinder engine, full of character and soul 👍
For years I rode a Matchless 500 single , very comphy low seat and balanced, but his kicker could get nasty, if you didn't use the comp release right. The Indians learned how to control the English overheating out in the southern colonies. I may well join the line for one of REs' 650's.
Love classic. I need to see bullet in flesh. I eagerly await classic 650 and I’m sure they’ll also do a bullet version. Will we get a 450 version in the future? 🤔
Yes definitely go and see a Bullet in the flesh 👍🏼
I'm starting to think the spy shots we say for a bullet 650 is actually the shotgun 650
It will be the same chassis for sure but front forks, lights and cluster are like the classic 350. I hope they bring out a 450 version as well. @@_everydayelias
Just a name & Royal Enfield going back to the British days played with the Bullet & Clipper name bringing out in 63 to 65 a unit construction Bullet 350 that was little more than a larger capacity Crusader.
My pick is the Classic (with the Bullet seat). Maybe if I looked at all the Bullet colour schemes, I might change my mind and prefer a Bullet with a Classic seat (leave the pillion section off completely).
As u advised earlier video I buy bullet 350.
It is excellent..
It is funny that the Bullet is priced higher, because the Classic was first introduced in India to be a more cosmetically premium alternative to the Bullet- wider rear tires, split seats, etc.
I just spotted the new Honda GB the 350 an 750 man this is like crazy every on is going nuts to have some kind of RE classic alternative
A fun fact : The tanks are hand painted by artists on every RE bike
Are they the same size? Tank wise and dimensions?
Best to go to Royal Enfield's website and compare the two 👍🏼
I rode both and then bought a Classic. It was a tough decision though. The bullet seat is more plush and comfortable, and I could flat foot on the Bullet, which I can’t on the Classic (I’m 5 ft 9 in with a 31” inside leg). So it may have the edge for shorter riders. However I preferred the looks of the Classic with the pillion seat removed and a rack fitted in its place. I don’t think that is an option with the Bullet, because as far as I’m aware the seats are not interchangeable.
I'm curious to know if that bench seat will fit on the Classic, visually I can't see why not? Remove the bracketry on the Classic and fit the 2 allen bolts at the grab rail 😮
Seats are 💯 interchangeable
🇮🇳
Its MrT I currently have the classic 350 Stealth dark gunmetal matt grey if I waited I would have chosen the Bullet 350 but if the 500 was out it would be it great bikes I am from north Ayrshire
You mentioned that the bars were, supposedly, a little different. Did you find that to be noticeable and, if so, how? Does the exhaust note sound the same? I took a test ride on the Classic last summer and found it to be solid and absolutely beautiful. Imagine that same bike in a 30+ hp 500cc version.
The bars felt the same tbh but apparently they’re different. And the exhaust is exactly the same. A 500 would be great!
I have driven the Classic, but only sat on the Bullet. The Bullet seems more comfortable, and they have corrected the position of the toe shifter so that I can get my foot beneath it, which isn't possible on the Classic, since the pedal is too low.
I'm thinking it might be a good idea to offer the Meteor's heel-toe shifter on the Bullet or at least offer it as an option.
If the bullet had been out when I bought my signals models I may have gone with it. But either way you will not be disappointed at all 😊
It’s a tough decision, I like the clean look of the bullets fuel tank, but I prefer the rear fender of the classic. Fork to my nose I think I’d pick the bullet
I like the new bullet a little bit more. Greetings from Hamburg/Germany (the most english city outside Great Britain o:)
Bullet the longest continuous bike in production.
I've just bought the classic 350..I love the single seat look..very 1950s
Awesome enjoy 😉
Bullet is my choice, no doubt. Cheers 🍻 from Brazil
I’ve owned one of each.
The Bullet is the most comfortable bike I’ve ever ridden.
Do they have exactly the same handlebars or any different? If no, how?
Question to those who have either bike: how is the bike on the highway/motorway going uphill? Because I love the the classic (and I really want one), I’m just concerned about going uphill while at speed.
We did a video about this. The test was in a Hunter but same engine th-cam.com/video/cg8O7HkqMKI/w-d-xo.htmlsi=6iVTR_biFmsqK7EZ
@@MrDarcy-OlMan what was your top speed going uphill?
It would of been a better comparison is the classic 350 was in CHROMO TANK ESPECIALLY WHITH THE RED COLOUR AROUND or even bronze
All Bullets are Royal Enfields but not all Royal Enfields are Bullets. If you are purist just that pinstriping on the tank is reason enough to buy one. And that made me buy the Bullet 500 , seven years ago.
That classic looks cool
Howay man, would you mind talking about the Spanish brand macbor later? Thanks
Personally I think the Classic is one of the prettiest bikes around though the Bullet isn't far behind.
Is the Honda GB350 bike available in the UK
No unfortunately not. It would be a huge success here I think
At first I was totally for the classic, now that i have seen the bullet i have changed idea
I'm surprised that the Bullet is more expensive than the classic, the Bullet has less bling than the Classic and it looks the cheapest to produce of the two. Having said that, if push came to shove, I'd go for the Bullet.
Bullet in Black and chrome. But it needs a bit more power maybe a 500 engine.
The polished engine is polished. Not brushed. Not chrome. The separate pillion seat is easily removed, making the Classic look better. Rectangle side covers vs ovals, squared off bottom line of the rear mudguard vs curved are the only real differences.
My choice is the bronze chrome Classic. Call me weird, but I get as much satisfaction cleaning my motorcycles as I do riding them. Both the Classic and Bullet need a bit more power for me, or maybe I should just lose 25 lbs / 2 Stone and thus achieve increased performance (of the bikes).
are bars higher on bullet?
@@Bigfatbobbbb the same from what we can see
@@MrDarcy-OlManI checked and the bullet bars are higher apparently
It’s funny, when the old bullet 500 was being discontinued a few years back, they couldn’t give them away for around £2600 if I remember. It looked the same, that awful badge in the tank. The classics however are selling for not even a third less than they were new at 5 years old. I like RE, but some decisions lately have made me scratch my head. The Aurora green Meteor for example *boke* correct me if I’m wrong, but there currently ten, yes ten Royal Enfield models. Meteor, Hunter, Classic, Bullet 350, Scram 411, Himalayan, Interceptor, Continental, Super Meteor, Shotgun 650. Variety is great, but dilution of the brand is risky. Just stop R.E.!