Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Goan Classic 350: differences explained

The new Goan Classic 350 has just been launched and it is the most expensive of all the 350cc bikes available in India. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between this bike and the Classic 350 that it is based on. 

Goan Classic vs Classic 350: mechanical changes

Things are the same when it comes to the 349cc air-cooled single cylinder motor. The engine’s state of tune is identical on both bikes, with 20.2hp at 6100rpm and 27Nm at 4000rpm. The only engine-related change of note is that the Goan Classic gets a different slash-cut exhaust.

The bigger changes are related to the chassis area. While the main chassis is the same, the entire subframe has been replaced with a single rider’s seat on the Goan Classic. Making this set-up possible is a swingarm mounted rear wheel fender that articulates with the wheel. However, the Goan Classic is not a strict single-seater and owners can install a pillion seat that bolts to the base of the rider seat, although pillion comfort is unlikely to be as good as the Classic 350.

The other significant chassis change is the move from a 18-inch rear wheel to a 16-inch unit, in keeping with the bobber-theme. At the front both bikes use 19-inch front wheels with the same suspension and brake set-up. But, the Goan Classic gets white wall tyres from Ceat and it runs on cross-spoked laced wheels that support tubeless tyres.  

Goan Classic vs Classic 350: riding position

The biggest change that customers will notice is the Goan’s riding position. The feet are now more forward set thanks to footpegs borrowed from the Meteor 350. The seat is much lower than the Classic 350 as well, at 750mm vs 805mm. Completing the cruiser-style riding position is a tall handlebar which will make this bike feel quite different to the Classic 350.

The transformation from Classic to bobber has not compromised this bike’s practicality on paper. Ground clearance is still at 170mm and the rear suspension travel is actually higher than the Classic’s – 105mm vs 90mm. 

The Goan Classic uses the same headlamp and instrument console as the Classic, but it is the only other 350 (aside from the Meteor 350) to get the aluminium switch cubes that are used in the bigger 650s.

Goan Classic vs Classic 350: price

Price is another big difference between the two Classics. The Classic 350 is available in a wide variety of colours and with different equipment levels and is priced between Rs 1.93 lakh and Rs 2.30 lakh.

Meanwhile the Goan Classic is available in just one spec with the single tone colour priced at Rs 2.35 lakh and the dual-tone colour options costing Rs 2.38 lakh.   

All prices ex-showroom, Chennai

Also See: RE Goan Classic 350 review: More than just a dressed-up Classic