Royal Enfield Classic 350 or GT 650 – Which One Feels Better on the Road?
Royal Enfield Classic 350 or GT 650 – Which One Feels Better on the Road?
When it comes to iconic motorcycles in India, Royal Enfield stands tall with a legacy that spans decades. Among its extensive lineup, two models have captured the attention of enthusiasts and everyday riders alike — the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the GT 650. Both bikes offer unique riding experiences, aesthetic appeal, and engineering marvels. But if you’re wondering which one feels better on the road, you’re in the right place.
Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which of these two retro-styled machines suits your road riding preferences best.
Royal Enfield Classic 350 – A Legacy Refined
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is one of the most recognisable bikes in the Indian market. With its timeless retro look, thumping exhaust note, and comfortable riding posture, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 continues to be a top choice for city and long-distance touring.
Engine & Performance
The Classic 350 features a 349cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled engine that delivers a peak power of 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox that is refined and smooth, offering a stress-free riding experience, especially in urban traffic.
Ride Quality
One of the biggest USPs of the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is its comfortable suspension setup and upright seating posture. The telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks absorb road imperfections effectively, making city rides and highway cruising both pleasant and fatigue-free.
Braking & Safety
Equipped with disc brakes on both ends and dual-channel ABS, the Classic 350 ensures safety and stability on Indian roads, especially during sudden braking or wet conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
In real-world conditions, the Classic 350 offers a mileage of around 35-40 km/l, making it a practical choice for daily use and long rides.
GT 650 – The Modern-Day Café Racer
The Royal Enfield GT 650 is a powerful, twin-cylinder motorcycle built to evoke the spirit of old-school café racers. It is sporty, aggressive, and performance-driven — ideal for enthusiasts who want more power and dynamic handling.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the GT 650 lies a 648cc parallel twin-cylinder engine that produces 47 bhp of power and 52 Nm of torque. It’s paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch that adds to the sporty performance.
Ride Quality
Unlike the upright stance of the Classic 350, the GT 650 offers a more committed riding posture with slightly rear-set foot pegs and lower handlebars. This makes it ideal for spirited riding and carving corners, but it may not be as comfortable for long touring or daily commutes.
Braking & Handling
With beefier tyres, larger disc brakes, and a stiffer suspension setup, the GT 650 offers sharp handling and excellent road grip. Dual-channel ABS comes standard, ensuring optimal braking performance even at higher speeds.
Fuel Efficiency
Given its higher displacement, the GT 650 offers a mileage of around 25-28 km/l, which is respectable for a performance bike in this category.
Design Comparison: Retro Cruiser vs Café Racer
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 retains the old-school charm of the 1950s with its teardrop fuel tank, chrome details, and upright ergonomics. It’s designed for those who love nostalgia and simplicity.
On the other hand, the GT 650 is inspired by 1960s British café racers, sporting a more minimalist design with clip-on handlebars, elongated fuel tank, and single-seat setup (although dual seat variants are also available). It appeals to a younger audience or riders looking for a more aggressive look and feel.
Comfort & Usability: Daily Ride or Weekend Thrill?
Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Perfect for: City riding, long-distance touring, daily commuting.
- Seat height: 805 mm (comfortable for riders of all heights).
- Rider fatigue: Minimal due to upright posture and wide seat.
GT 650
- Perfect for: Weekend rides, spirited highway runs, café-racer lovers.
- Seat height: 820 mm (may feel taller for shorter riders).
- Rider fatigue: Can increase during long rides due to sporty posture.
Pricing & Value for Money
| Model | Ex-Showroom Price (Approx) |
| Royal Enfield Classic 350 | ₹ 2,62,613 Lakh |
| Royal Enfield GT 650 | ₹ 3,46,330 Lakh |
If you’re on a tighter budget and looking for a reliable, stylish, and comfortable motorcycle, the Classic 350 is a value-for-money choice. The GT 650, while more expensive, justifies its price with more power, a parallel-twin engine, and better performance features.
Which One Feels Better on the Road?
City Riding
- Winner: Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Reason: Comfortable posture, smooth low-end torque, better mileage, and easy handling make it ideal for stop-and-go traffic.
Highway Touring
- Winner: GT 650
- Reason: Higher power, better cruising capability, and superior highway stability.
Twisties and Cornering
- Winner: GT 650
- Reason: The sporty riding dynamics, twin-cylinder engine, and grippy tyres allow for aggressive cornering and dynamic handling.
Long-Distance Comfort
- Winner: Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Reason: Upright seating, cushioned saddle, and fuel efficiency make it a better long-haul partner for leisurely rides.
Maintenance & Service
Royal Enfield has established a strong service network across India. Both the Classic 350 and Royal Enfield GT 650 benefit from easy availability of spare parts and reliable after-sales support. However, the Classic 350 is more economical to maintain due to its simpler engine design and wider usage.
Final Thoughts – Which One Should You Buy?
Choosing between the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the GT 650 comes down to your riding style, budget, and purpose.
- If you’re looking for a reliable, comfortable, and everyday cruiser with that unmistakable thump and classic styling, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is hard to beat.
- If your heart craves speed, performance, and café-racer styling, and you’re ready to sacrifice a bit of comfort for excitement, then the GT 650 will feel more satisfying.
In conclusion, both bikes feel incredible on the road, but they serve different purposes. Whether you’re a laid-back explorer or a spirited roadster, Royal Enfield has a machine crafted just for your kind of thrill.