The J-platform Royal Enfields are some of my favourite motorcycles for leisurely rides, and the Classic 350 tops the list. So, when the opportunity of picking up the new one presented itself, I jumped the gun and immediately brought it home and while doing the customary ‘one last look’, I couldn’t take my eyes off of it.
Under the evening light, the Emerald Green Classic 350 shined bright. In fact, with all that chrome, the deep green was barely visible. The watchman and a couple of oldies joined me, gaping at the beauty of this timeless design. Knowing how eager the Motoring crew was to see the bike, I sent a picture of the bike to the group which was met by a ‘keep it clean’ message by Kartik.
Of course, I intended to. Never thought that seeing my reflection on the tank while waiting at traffic signals would become a thing. So, almost immediately, a fresh microfibre cloth was placed in the toolbox, and before every ride, I would clean the bike, take a step back, admire my work and then ride.
The LED treatment to all lights and the handlebar sourced from the Bullet 350 are the only significant updates, this Classic has been turning heads like no one has ever seen one on the road. A petrol pump attendant got so emotional looking at it that he told me how lucky I was to have this bike, and how he couldn’t afford it and still longed for one, too. ‘One looks like a king on this’, he said, teary-eyed, gently tapping the tank.
And though my heart felt what he meant, my eyes saw the fingerprints on the tank. A quick wipe and I was off. Slowing down at the sight of the smallest puddle, and avoiding any dusty and under-construction roads became normal. I was becoming a clean freak around the Classic, and the not-so-shiny finish of the engine was bothering me every day.
The engine polish is now on its way and the next time you see this Classic will be with more bling!
