News reports are emerging about the next generation Royal Enfield Classic being spotted again in India.
The most evident changes, as revealed in a few spy-cam pictures, is the inclusion of a new catalytic converter positioned right next to the engine, with oxygen sensors placed on top of the exhaust bend pipe.
Insiders have assured that the next-generation Royal Enfield Classic 350 will almost certainly be a fuel-injected model to meet the new emission regulations, which are set to come into force from April 1, 2020.
Royal Enfield enthusiasts have also noted that the design of the gearbox casing is quite similar to the one on the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 - thus hinting at a very real possibility that the new model will come with a slick-shift six-speed transmission.
Experts have observed that the engine head also seems to be slightly larger than the current generation engine of the Classic 350, which could imply a small displacement bump from the current 346 cc engine.
If that happens, along with the new 6-speed transmission, the next generation Royal Enfield Classic 350 is expected to reveal marginally higher performance, with a fair amount of refinement, as apparent in the 650 Twins.
Previous reports online have already divulged detailed spy shots, including a new part analogue-part digital speedometer console, new switchgear, as well as a new double-cradle frame.
According to insiders, the suspension set-up is expected to be the same, but riders can expect standard dual-channel ABS on the new model.
Earlier online reports spoke of the next generation Royal Enfield Classic being spotted on testing rounds in Chennai. In comparison with existing Classic models, the new model is said to sport several differences, with minor cosmetic upgrades to the tail section, and a cylindrical tail lamp cluster.
The overall silhouette remains more or less the same, and carries the same retro styling, with generous amounts of chrome, but there seem to be some mechanical changes as well.
The most significant change, enthusiasts noted, is the shift of the final drive from the right side of the bike to the left, with the rear disc brake placed on the right, possibly making room for a dual-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS).
Expectedly, all these updates will affect the cost of the new model, with estimates placing the figure at around INR 1.75 lakh (ex-showroom). Royal Enfield is expected to launch the updated models by early-2020, in order to meet the April 2020 deadline.
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