ROYAL ENFIELD METEOR 350 FIREBALL by Phil Beach
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is one of the most affordable motorcycles of the mid-capacity cruiser segment . Launched in early 2021 , it has been receiving raving reports from the users and journalists due to how good the overall package is . It ’ s also gorgeous and the build quality is a notch above many of the rivals of this segment . City riding comfort is unmatched too .
Royal Enfield is the oldest motorcycle brand in continuous production . They made their first motorcycle in 1901 . A division of Eicher Motors Limited , Royal Enfield has created the mid-size motorcycle segment in the world with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles .
The original retro : My first thought once I set off on the Meteor was how comfortable it was , the seat , riding position and forward foot controls made it an easy ride , combined with the “ toe heel shifter ” I didn ’ t have to worry about squeezing under the pedal so you don ’ t really have to be concerned about what type of boots you wear .
The bike itself was incredibly capable considering the engine size , I kept up with traffic on a duel carriageway with no issues and low speed manoeuvres were easy due to what I ’ m assuming is a nice low centre of gravity , had an opportunity to test it out in slow moving traffic , as long as I didn ’ t have to come to a complete stop it was easy to just coast along at crawling speed with no issues in balance without putting my foot down .
The 2022 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 takes forward everything offered by the outgoing 2021 model and sees no changes from it . The single-cylinder motor is refined and punchy , and the motorcycle could cruise at the motorway speed limit all day long . The long list of colors , superb quality control , and top-notch ride are some other nice touches .
Equipment Instruments and Controls : This small / mid-capacity cruiser motorcycle comes with a 5-speed gearbox with a wet multi-plate clutch system . In comparison to the older Royal Enfield gearbox , the one in the 2022 Meteor 350 is a revelation . It is very similar to the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 in terms of slickness and shift quality , and that makes it one of the best in the segment .
About town : Even though the 2022 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 has a wet weight of close to 421 lbs , it is quite an impressive motorcycle to navigate and ride through the congested city streets . The motorcycle feels light and hence filtering through the traffic is very easy . The motor doesn ’ t heat up when idling for a long duration . Another reason that makes the 2022 Meteor 350 an excellent idea for daily commuting is due to the torquey motor on offer , requiring minimal gearshifts .
Noise , vibration are well under control , the suspension is supple while riding through the nasty broken roads in and around the cities .
Look and feel : The 2022 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is a notch above the older Royal Enfield motorcycles in terms of build quality , and that is evident from the material selection and the overall quality control . All the metal parts look well-finished and there aren ’ t any rough edges anywhere . The paint quality is top-notch , too . In comparison to the outgoing 2021 model , the 2022 Meteor 350 sees no changes . The front end comes with a round halogen headlight with a chrome bezel , and the windshield adds to the cruiser character . The contrasting color palettes , blacked-out engine , and masculine tank make the motorcycle stand out from the rivals like the Honda Rebel 300 .
The upright riding position of the 2022 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is what made it a favorite amongst the smaller-capacity motorcycle buyers . The wide handlebar and the perfect positioning of the switchgear is another advantage that makes it an even more comfortable motorcycle to ride around . The footpegs are forward set , and the handlebar is positioned adequately high , both of which make riding the Meteor 350 very easy . Apart from that , the 2022 Meteor 350 gets wide mirrors and there is more than enough legroom for both the rider and the pillion . The masculine-looking tank helps in locking the legs very easily .
Royal Enfield x Belstaff Collaboration To celebrate Royal Enfield ’ s 120th anniversary , Belstaff and Royal Enfield come together to celebrate pure motorcycling and iconic style . The collaboration is built on decades of motorcycling passion , between two brands that are steeped motorcycling history . From the iconic Trialmaster and Brooklands jackets , through to the heritage inspired graphic tees . This collaboration will ensure you are looking good whether on or off the bike . We ’ ll be covering this next issue ...
In summary : This bike is a great commuter and fun little run around if you prioritize comfort and style , enormous bang for your buck . A bunch of funky retro colours are available too .
Price OTR : £ 3,879.00 ( Yes , really ).
Bill Smith Motors 30-36 Tarvin Road
Chester CH3 6AE T : 01244 323 845 W : billsmithmotors . co . uk
68 78 seftonlife merseylife . . com