That’s a serious goal to catch up on, however what we have on our plate is the evolved and improved version of Thunderbird. Now Royal Enfield obviously says the cruise ship is built from the ground up. I do not doubt the intention because one look at the Meteorite and you will like it.
Codenamed J1D, Meteor has all the elements to take you on long road trips, seeking mediating driving. The motorcycle is longer and lighter than the replaced Thunderbird. The hanger at 765mm is well contoured for both the rider and the passenger. In the saddle, you’ll enjoy an effortless cruising stance, thanks to wide, raised handlebars, forward-pressed footpegs, and an extended windshield. These are certain ingredients that you expect from a cruise ship, and Meteor does not disappoint.
(FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE)
What is surprising, however, is that Royal Enfield’s deep expansion plans to speed up its rivals. The automaker says replacements for the Classic and Bullet, based on the J platform, are within a year and there is development work on new Q and K architectures, including R&D work on electric vehicles. At a time when brands like Honda, Classic Legends (Jawa) and Benelli are aiming for a cake, Royal Enfield seems in no mood to compete.
With Meteor’s classic and timeless design, you experience a whole new thing or two. The motorcycle customization process, under the company’s ‘Make It Yours’ (MIY), started with 650 Twins in October and now Royal Enfield has opened its floodgates with Meteor. This cruise, along with others in the portfolio, would be customized to the customer’s needs.
Available in three variants, Meteor is priced between Rs 1.75 lakh and Rs 1.91 lakh (ex-showroom). The top-end SuperNova features premium seats, chrome trim, and machine-cut alloys.
Historically, Royal Enfield has refrained from overdoing the hardware. Meteor is no different with dual channel ABS (anti-lock braking), 5-speed transmission, 41mm front forks, and 6-step preload adjustable rear shocks. However, brand enthusiasts will admire the inclusion of Google’s powered turn-by-turn navigation systems that are built into the front dial.
The Royal Enfield app, available on both iOS and Android, allows you to connect with your Meteor 350 and enables hands-free navigation on the go. The system can be seen correctly in daylight. However, the app is a work in progress and we expect more functionality to be included as standard. Products to follow should also include this.
Heads generally turn on the road thanks to the rugged metal design and deep bass sound that comes from the Royal Enfield. For Meteor 350, I would look at it for all the chrome it contains, but not for the sound. BS6 or not, an experience at the nearest dealership will clear things up.
The 349cc single-cylinder, air- and oil-cooled engine retains the character of a Royal Enfield – a heavy hit of torque in the midrange and tapers close to the red line. The ability to smoothly navigate at 90-110 km / h is preserved, while vibrations are a welcome absence. Not on the foot pads, handlebar, or tank, the moderate vibrations on the Meteor 350 over Thunderbird 350X are certainly a huge improvement.
A longer wheelbase means a little more judgment is needed before heading into the corners. However, the Thunderbird’s increased ground clearance and 6 kilos trimmed means easier handling.
The ride quality, like most cruisers, is moderately stiff. At trailing speeds, Meteor comfortably flattens bumps and ripples. Dual channel ABS equipped disc brakes are effective and ensure, however, the ABS is activated slightly delayed. For mundane urban runaways, expect 28kmpl from the engine, while the highway should deliver around 32kmpl.
The Meteor 350 is indisputably a mature cruiser, knowing its limitations and yet it would subtly fill the Thunderbird 350X boots.
.
