Is the Goan Classic 350's design really Goa, or just using the name for marketing?
The naming of the new Royal Enfield model as 'Goan Classic 350' has come amid discussions about how the bike draws links with Goa's culture and fashion. As you might expect, Goa is home to beaches, a laid back lifestyle and a unique mix of Indian and Portuguese influences; it has a character that many feel should be reflected in a motorcycle bearing its name. Elements such as ape hanger handle bars, whitewall tyres and vibrant colour options have been used in the Goan Classic 350 to make a case that it gets the free spirited, retro cool vibe that Goa is known for. But some wonder if these are really choices that reflect Goan culture, or if they're just generic 'beach cruiser' styling. It’s also a debate about authenticity in motorcycle design, and what responsibilities manufacturers have to their customers when they use specific cultural references in their products. Toward the end you could discuss the possibilities of the community's perspectives on this issue in relation to this increased homogenous appearance of motorcycles and what does a motorcycle mean, or how can a motorcycle represent regional identities or perhaps the line between homage and appropriation.
They’ve done a decent job capturing the Goan vibe, I think. The bright colours and laid back riding position are exactly what you get in Goa.
It’s not really Goan, it’s more of a generic ‘beach cruiser’. I wish they had centered the design more in the region by incorporating some local patterns or design elements.
As a person who's been to Goa a lot, the bike does take on some of that vibe. It's not perfect, but there's that relaxed, retro cool thing that you find everywhere in Goa.
And let’s be real, it’s mostly marketing. To make it exotic and appealing, they slapped 'Goan' on it. The design could be for any beach town anywhere in the world.
I feel it’s a nice tribute to Goa’s bike culture. Royal Enfields are incredibly popular with tourists and locals alike, as anyone who’s been there will know. It’s like a nod to that connection.
Instead of missing such an opportunity to collaborate with Goan artists or designers to create something truly authentic, they should have taken the next step. It feels a little superficial as it is.
Marketing name aside, the design does make you feel like you’re in Goa. It's more about a mood than literal representation, and I think it does that.
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Discussions and Questions Is The Goan Classic 350S Design Really Goa Or Just Using The Name For Marketing
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