INDUSTRY RESEARCH

WHAT THEY SAID

Royal Enfield has its share of historic motorcycles, as the company celebrates its 120th anniversary in 2021. Royal Enfield doesn’t strive to define the future, instead maintaining a foothold in classic design elements fused with carefully thought out fully modern touches… Motorcycles hold the promise of the same timeless experience: an escape from everyday stress, a link to new and old friends, miles of adventure and the prospect of a brighter tomorrow. ~ Jean Turner CycleNews

This bike captures the pure essence of cruising with timeless charm, all while providing universally approachable power, laid-back ergonomics, and admirable handling. The Meteor 350 nails the classic cruiser vibe with its design, looks, and relaxed ergonomics, offering an easygoing ride with predictable power and handling. It’s a welcome air-cooled entry in the small-displacement cruiser market. Especially considering its starting price of $4,399, Royal Enfield most certainly has a contender against its liquid-cooled competition. ~ Serena Bleeker Cycle World

These days small-displacement motorcycles all too often get classified as starter bikes, which is a shame. While light, economical, approachable motorcycles are certainly a better choice for new riders than heavy, expensive, intimidating ones, smaller bikes also have a lot to offer experienced riders. Things like simplicity and purity. By stripping away a lot of nice-to-have but not need-to-have features, what you’re left with is the essence of riding. Royal Enfield’s Meteor 350 has the kind of welcoming, carefree attitude that is sure to leave an impression, thanks to its gentle handling, approachable power and good looks. We’d like a higher top speed (or to just get there sooner) and the Meteor is heavier than other small-displacement cruisers in this class (like the Honda Rebel 300 and Yamaha V Star 250), but the bike feels solid and offers good value. Whether you want to add another motorcycle to the stable, or you’re a new rider looking for a comfortable, user-friendly motorcycle on which to hone your skills, this bike will leave stars in your eyes. ~ Nic de Sena Rider Magazine

When Europe’s EURO 5 and India’s Bharat Stage VI emissions standards came into effect, the new standards killed off Royal Enfield’s iconic Bullet mill, ending an era for the storied Enfield thumper and prompting the creation of a new model to carry the brand’s single-cylinder legacy forward. Say hello to the 2021 Meteor 350. Royal Enfield is keen to develop their U.S. dealership network. Would a bike like the Meteor get folks in the door? Or would it suffer the same fate as other retro singles like the Suzuki TU250 and Yamaha SR400? I suppose that depends on what cruising means to you. ~ Andy Greaser Common Tread

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