Royal Enfield Bikes in India

About the company

Royal Enfield is one of the world’s oldest motorcycle manufacturers. The iconic British manufacturer, founded in 1901, began by producing motorcycles, bicycles, lawnmowers, stationary engines, and, more recently, weapons. In honour of its legacy, Royal Enfield continues to use the slogan “Made like a gun” today.

Royal Enfield motorcycles are known for their class and signature thump. In 1994, Eicher Motors acquired Royal Enfield, critical in the company’s resurgence.

Although the company continues to produce classic-styled and old-school motorcycles that are essentially modernised versions of the early Bullet models from the 1950s, Royal Enfield’s fortunes have turned, and it is now one of India’s fastest-growing bike manufacturers. While the Classic launched the company on an unprecedented growth trajectory, a few Royal Enfield models, such as the now-discontinued single-cylinder Continental GT, had to make do with a muted response.

Royal Enfield was unrivalled in India until international brands such as Triumph and Indian Chief arrived. Despite a lineup with outdated models, Royal Enfield has maintained its position as a lifestyle motorcycle manufacturer.

After establishing a foothold in the Indian market, Royal Enfield is now looking to expand its global footprint. Recently, the company has expanded its global presence by establishing exclusive dealerships in Europe, the Gulf, and the United States.

Royal Enfield’s current lineup includes the Bullet, Classic, Thunderbird, Himalayan, Interceptor 650, and Continental GT 650. The Bullet, Classic, and Thunderbird are available in two versions, powered by 500cc and 350cc engines, respectively. While all of the models have remained true to the company’s traditional character, a few specific models get a dose of modern technology—fuel injection, projector headlamps, and a digital instrument cluster. ABS and a rear disc brake are recent addition to the list of standard features across the board.

With the introduction of its first twin-cylinder motorcycles, the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650, things are expected to get more exciting for the brand. With their aggressive pricing, these twin-cylinder 650cc motorcycles promise to usher in a new chapter for the brand in India and globally.