For decades, Royal Enfield’s Bullet and Classic range has been the heartbeat of India’s motorcycle culture. Known for their unmistakable thump, rugged build, and retro charm, these bikes carry an emotional connection that few brands can match. Now, Royal Enfield is preparing to shake up the 250cc segment with the all-new Bullet Classic 250, expected to hit showrooms in mid-2025.
The bike will serve as an affordable entry point for younger riders and budget buyers who want a slice of the Bullet legacy without the higher price of the Classic 350 or Meteor 350. Packed with a 249cc engine, 55 kmpl mileage (ARAI-claimed), and a top speed of 145 km/h, the Classic 250 promises to deliver that signature thump in a lighter, more accessible package.
Design: Retro Roadster with Modern Touch
The Bullet Classic 250 retains Royal Enfield’s signature retro styling but trims the proportions slightly to make it more approachable for first-time buyers.
- Dimensions:
- Length: ~2,000 mm
- Width: 780 mm
- Height: 1,100 mm
- Wheelbase: 1,350 mm
- Kerb Weight: 145 kg
- Styling Highlights:
- Teardrop fuel tank with chrome accents
- Round halogen headlamp with LED DRLs (higher trims)
- Wire-spoke wheels with tubeless tyres
- Matte Black, Dark Green, and Silver paint schemes
- Retro-styled exhaust with chrome finish
Despite being lighter and smaller than the Classic 350, the 250 retains its road presence, looking every bit like a Royal Enfield. At 790 mm seat height, it will be accessible for most Indian riders, while wide handlebars and upright ergonomics make it comfortable for long rides.
Riding Comfort and Features
Royal Enfield has made sure that the Classic 250 remains rider-friendly without going overboard with tech.
- Riding Ergonomics:
- Upright handlebar and mid-set footpegs
- Neutral, comfortable stance for both short commutes and long rides
- Optional backrest for pillion comfort
- Console & Features:
- Semi-digital instrument cluster
- Analog speedometer with digital fuel and odometer display
- Bluetooth-enabled variant for call alerts and turn-by-turn navigation
- USB charging port for phones
- 13.5-litre fuel tank capacity
It keeps the classic, no-nonsense vibe alive while offering just enough modern touches like navigation and phone charging to suit today’s riders.
Engine & Performance
The biggest talking point of the Classic 250 is its brand-new 249cc engine, co-developed with CFMoto.
- Engine Specs (Expected):
- 249cc single-cylinder, air-oil cooled, BS6-compliant
- Power: ~25 bhp @ 7,000 rpm
- Torque: ~22 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
- Gearbox: 5-speed manual
- Performance:
- 0–100 km/h in around 10 seconds
- Top speed of 145 km/h
- Mileage: 55 kmpl (ARAI), 45–50 kmpl real-world
This balance of torque-rich performance and excellent mileage makes the Classic 250 suitable for both daily city commutes and highway weekend rides.
Handling and Ride Quality
Riding dynamics have been tuned for Indian roads:
- Suspension:
- Telescopic forks at the front
- Twin shock absorbers at the rear
- Braking:
- Front: 260 mm disc with single-channel ABS
- Rear: 220 mm drum (disc available on higher trims)
- Ground Clearance: 170 mm
- Tyres: Wider tubeless options for stability
The lighter frame makes it more agile than the Classic 350, while its torque-heavy engine keeps overtakes effortless. Perfect for riders moving up from 125–150cc bikes.
Safety Features
While not overloaded with electronics, the Classic 250 covers all essential safety basics:
- Single-channel ABS (dual-channel expected in top trims)
- Side-stand cut-off system
- LED tail lamp and halogen headlamp with DRL
- Engine kill switch
- Sturdy tubular frame with reliable crash protection
This focus on practical safety rather than gimmicks makes it a dependable beginner’s bike.
Price and Variants
Royal Enfield is expected to launch the Classic 250 in three trims.
- Base Drum Variant: ₹1.25 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Mid ABS Variant: ₹1.40 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Top Dual-ABS Variant: ₹1.58 lakh (ex-showroom)
On-road prices in Delhi are estimated to fall between ₹1.40–1.80 lakh. With EMI options starting at ₹2,500/month and pre-booking perks like cashback and free helmets, the Classic 250 will attract a wide base of buyers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
✔ Affordable entry into Royal Enfield family
✔ Retro design with modern touches
✔ Impressive mileage for a 250cc bike
✔ Lightweight and beginner-friendly
✔ Wide service network across India
Cons:
✘ Rear drum brake on base variant
✘ Vibrations at higher revs
✘ No dual-channel ABS in standard trim
✘ Plain styling compared to rivals like Honda CB200X
Competitors
The Bullet Classic 250 will compete with:
- Bajaj Avenger 220 – Cruiser styling, lower price but smaller engine
- Honda CB200X – Sport-tourer styling, higher refinement but less heritage
- Yamaha FZ25 – Sporty performance but lacks retro appeal
Where it wins is in heritage and emotional value—you’re buying into a Royal Enfield legacy, not just a motorcycle.
Quick Specs
| Specification | Royal Enfield Classic 250 (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Engine | 249cc, air-oil cooled, single-cylinder |
| Power | ~25 bhp @ 7,000 rpm |
| Torque | ~22 Nm @ 5,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Mileage | 55 kmpl (ARAI), 45–50 kmpl real-world |
| Top Speed | 145 km/h |
| Weight | 145 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm |
| Fuel Tank | 13.5 litres |
| Brakes | Front disc + ABS, rear drum/disc |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹1.25 – ₹1.58 lakh |
| Launch | Mid-2025 |
Final Verdict
The Royal Enfield Bullet Classic 250 is shaping up to be the perfect budget retro roadster. With its classic design, fuel-efficient yet punchy 250cc engine, and affordable pricing, it’s aimed squarely at younger riders, students, and commuters who dream of owning a Bullet but want something lighter on the pocket.
If you want a motorcycle that blends heritage, practicality, and everyday usability without burning a hole in your wallet, the Classic 250 is likely to be the most exciting launch of 2025 in the entry-level retro segment.
FAQs on Royal Enfield Classic 250
Q1. When will the Royal Enfield Classic 250 launch?
The bike is expected to launch in mid-2025.
Q2. What will be the price of the Classic 250?
The ex-showroom price is estimated at ₹1.25–1.58 lakh.
Q3. What mileage will it offer?
ARAI-claimed mileage is 55 kmpl, with real-world figures around 45–50 kmpl.
Q4. What is the top speed of the Classic 250?
It is expected to reach up to 145 km/h.
Q5. Does it come with ABS?
Yes, the bike will feature single-channel ABS on the base and dual-channel ABS on higher trims.
Q6. Who are its competitors?
The Classic 250 will compete with the Bajaj Avenger 220, Honda CB200X, and Yamaha FZ25.
Q7. Is it beginner-friendly?
Yes, with its light weight, neutral riding stance, and affordable price, it’s ideal for first-time Royal Enfield buyers.