Despite considerations, the company dropped the idea to get the classic feel of Royal Enfield.
Royal Enfield, in a recent statement, mentioned how they had thought about using upside-down forks, a rear monoshock and even alloy wheels on the 650 Twins. But in the end, the want to not move away from the classic theme of the bikes stopped them from doing so. Also, if these had been offered, the costs would’ve shot up significantly (by around Rs. 50,000/-), making the bikes less accessible to Royal Enfield’s existing 3.5 million customers in India.
Furthermore, the motorcycles use a 270-degree timing to give character to the dispensing. The countershaft also aids in cancelling out the vibrations. When asked about why the option of liquid-cooling for the engine was not considered, the company said that air-cooled engine conforms with the styling of the bikes and give it more ‘Royal Enfield’ character.
The bikes however, come with a short-stroke engine and a 6-speed transmission for the first time in a Royal Enfield bike. The 6-speed gearbox was decided upon to make the riding more comfortable and the short-stroke engine offers a characteristic delivery. The chassis will remain the same since they want the vehicle to have a classic riding feel.
While the 648cc engine is not Euro 5-ready yet, Royal Enfield is making changes to it to allow it to comply with the new emission standards. However, they have said that a ‘few things’ will change in the upcoming model.
RE Twins Hardware
– Engine is air-cooled and not liquid-cooled
– New tech used are the short-stroke engine and 6-speed transmission
– RE had considered upgrading to monoshock, alloys and USD forks but left it for the classic feel
Source – Motociclismo.it