The story of the Gorkha soldiers has travelled far beyond the mountains. Known for courage, discipline and the famous khukri, the Gorkha identity has a strong place in Indian history. Now, that story has found a rather different form on two wheels. A new Royal Enfield Classic 350 Gorkha Edition has been spotted at a dealership, wearing military-inspired details that make it easy to tell apart from the regular motorcycle.
The first thing that catches the eye is the matte military green paint. The side panels carry a Gorkha sticker with the crossed khukri symbol, a design linked with the Gorkha Rifles. The bike also uses several chrome parts, giving it a classic look.
Key design details
- Matte military green paint
- Crossed khukri graphics on the side panels
- Chrome engine cases
- Chrome exhaust
- Chrome wire spoke wheels
- LED headlamp and indicators are expected
- Adjustable levers are likely to be offered
The combination of green paint, chrome parts and spoke wheels gives the motorcycle a very different character. It still has the familiar Classic 350 shape, but the special graphics and colour give it a more rugged feel.
Features and Equipment
The rider gets the familiar Classic 350 layout. The motorcycle is expected to use the analogue speedometer with a small MID screen. A USB Type C charging port is placed below the handlebar. The bike is also expected to feature an all LED headlamp, LED pilot lamps and LED turn indicators.
There is no big change to the basic equipment list. The Classic 350 has kept its simple approach, which should also work well for this edition.
Engine and hardware
Under the special paint, the motorcycle uses the same 349cc J series single cylinder engine. It makes 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm at 4,000 rpm. Power goes through a five speed gearbox.
The chassis setup includes a dual cradle frame, 41mm telescopic front forks and preload adjustable twin rear shock absorbers. The mechanical package is expected to stay the same as the other Classic 350 versions.
What about the price?
Royal Enfield has not announced the Gorkha Edition or its price yet. The regular Classic 350 currently costs between Rs 1.87 lakh and Rs 2.24 lakh, ex showroom. The new edition could sit near the upper end of this range and may carry a premium.
A production ready bike already being seen at a dealership suggests that the wait should not be very long. For buyers who like the Classic 350 but want something with a stronger visual connection to the Gorkha story, this version could be an interesting choice.