The neo-retro motorcycle segment in India, spearheaded by Royal Enfield’s Classic 350 in 2009, has become a popular choice among enthusiasts. Over the years, this category has expanded with various brands offering their unique takes on the neo-retro style. Here’s a look at some of the best options available under Rs 3 lakh.
Honda’s Entrant: The CB500
Honda introduced the CB500 to the Indian market, announcing its price in late September. Deliveries for the alloy wheel version began in October. The CB500 fills the gap left by the Royal Enfield Classic 500. It features a 501cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine producing 28.1hp and 43.3Nm. While similar in features to Honda’s 350 line-up, the CB500 offers more power. The alloy version is priced at Rs 2.75 lakh, while versions with tubeless, cross-spoke wheels are slightly more expensive. Competing in a niche market, the CB500 stands apart from Harley-Davidson and Royal Enfield 650 models.
Triumph’s Latest: Bonneville T4/T40
Triumph launched the Bonneville T40 internationally and the Bonneville T4 exclusively in India on October 6. The T40, priced at Rs 2.80 lakh, is feature-rich with a 4-inch TFT display, ride-by-wire technology, and more. The 349cc engine delivers 29hp and 31.2Nm. Meanwhile, the T4 offers a more basic package at Rs 25,000 less. Deliveries for the T40 start in November, while the T4 will be available in January. Triumph also markets the Speed 400 and Speed T4 as modern classics, with the Speed T4 priced at Rs 2.10 lakh.
Harley-Davidson’s Mass Appeal: The X440
Introduced in 2023, the Harley-Davidson X440 aims to bring the brand’s iconic V-twin experience to a broader audience. Built with assistance from Hero, the X440 features a 440cc engine generating 27hp and 38Nm. While its feature set is modest, the X440 T variant includes ride-by-wire, traction control, and turn-by-turn navigation. Despite challenges in looks, availability, and pricing, the X440 is praised for its soulful ride.
Jawa’s Classic Revival: 350/42 FJ
Revived by Mahindra’s Classic Legends in 2018, the Jawa 350 and 42 FJ use a 334cc engine with varying outputs. The 350 delivers 22.57hp and 28.1Nm, while the 42 FJ offers 29.2hp and 29.6Nm. The 350 maintains a retro feel with an analogue cluster, while the 42 FJ includes a digital instrument panel and an ‘All Stars’ design.
Yezdi’s Return: The Roadster
Following Jawa, Yezdi was resurrected by Classic Legends. The Roadster, sharing a 334cc engine with the 42 FJ, offers 29.2hp and 29.6Nm. It’s designed for accessibility with a 790mm seat height, compared to the FJ’s 797mm, and a distinct retro design approach.
Honda’s Take on the Classic: CB350
Honda’s CB350 series challenges Royal Enfield’s dominance in the 350cc segment. The standard CB350, CB350C, and CB350RS models share a 348.36cc engine with 20.7hp and 30Nm. They offer smartphone connectivity and standard traction control, differentiating them from competitors.
Jawa’s Affordable Option: The 42
Though it shares its name with the 42 FJ, the Jawa 42 is powered by a different 294.7cc engine producing 27.3hp and 26.8Nm. It features the ‘All Stars’ styling but retains the same feature set as the 42 FJ.
Royal Enfield’s Continued Reign: The 350 Series
Royal Enfield continues to dominate the neo-retro segment with its 350 series, including the Bullet 350, Classic 350, Meteor, Goan Classic 350, and Hunter 350. All models feature a 349cc engine with 20.2hp and 27Nm. Despite a basic feature set, these motorcycles are equipped with a Tripper pod for navigation and other modern conveniences.
Source: Autocar India
