Inspired by the Despatch Riders from World War one and two, Royal Enfield has introduced its new gear collection including apparel and accessories and limited edition range of Despatch motorcycles that will make their way onto the roads in India and many of the international markets. The collection was unveiled at Royal Enfield’s new flagship gear store at Delhi’s Khan Market.
A motorcycle despatch rider relayed vital information between headquarters and ground forces through the World Wars often riding long days and nights through varying weather and terrain. Royal Enfields were one of the most popular motorcycles for this arduous task. Inspired by the kit that the despatch riders rode in, Royal Enfield’s new collection pays homage to these riders with a range of gear that blends the heritage look and classic materials with modern cuts and fit. A palette of browns, greens, olive, tan and blues is paired with classic regimental detailing – epaulettes, plackets and gorgets. Fabrics such as leather, twill and canvas have been chosen for their utility.
Leather jackets are the defining pieces of this collection, complemented by other outwear pieces. Signature design motifs such as hexa-quilt detailing are inspired by the nuts and bolts of the motorcycle, while leather shoulder and elbow patches on woollen sweaters are cues borrowed from classic motorcycling gear. Knits in various weights and innovative combinations play a significant role in the look that is essentially layered but works well even as separates, both on and off the motorcycle.
Cold-weather layering gets a leg up with sweaters, sweatshirts and henleys. The additional outerwear items include over-shirts, t-shirts, denim trousers with articulated knee-patches, and water-resistant canvas bags. Finally, belts, wallets and shoes in pure leather – crafted using traditional techniques while retaining a contemporary disposition – complete the collection.
As part of the collection Royal Enfield also previewed its limited edition range of Despatch motorcycles. The range takes inspiration from classic wartime Royal Enfield motorcycles, while still retaining the performance of a modern day machine. Available in two color variants in India- Desert Storm Despatch and Squadron Blue Despatch, and an additional third, Battle Green Despatch for international markets; these motorcycles come with an exclusive signature camouflage pattern and a distinctive embossed hallmark detailing the particulars of its manufacture.
Additionally, each Royal Enfield Despatch comes with genuine Italian leather seats accompanied by a classic leather buckle strap to hold the air filter box. Inspired by the stealthy, non-reflective paint on the engines of the original Despatch Rider motorcycles, the bike gets a matte black paint on the engine, exhaust and silencer. Royal Enfield will be producing only 200 motorcycles in each color. Customers can book their motorcycles starting July 15th only on store.royalenfield.com
