Is the Royal Enfield Machismo 350 really the best handling Bullet that Royal Enfield ever made?
To some enthusiasts, the Royal Enfield Machismo 350 is known for being a surprisingly agile and the best handling Bullet model. On its introduction it was marketed as a sports model of the Bullet. But opinions seem to vary as to whether it really lives up to this reputation as compared to other Royal Enfield models. Some riders like the nimble feel and responsive handling, others say it's not much different than other Bullets. The bike is often cited as having superior handling because it’s lighter weight and has a different frame geometry than standard Bullets. So does the Machismo 350 really handle any better than any other 350, or is this just marketing hype that's been perpetuated for years?
Absolutely! I've ridden the Machismo and standard Bullets and the Machismo feels much more nimble. It makes a huge difference in tight turns because of its lighter weight.
It’s good, but claiming it’s the best handling is a stretch. With their updated chassis design, Modern RE models like the Continental GT handle a lot better.
For its time the handling was great, but come on, today it’s still a heavy, slow turning bike. This one has the strongest of nostalgia goggles.
I’d call it the best handling classic Bullet. It’s really flickable for the frame geometry. But compared to non-Bullets? Not even close.
Sweet handling as an owner I can confirm. But the best ever is always subjective. That depends on what kind of riding you do, and what you’re used to.
The Machismo definitely goes down better than other Bullets of its era, but that's not saying much. It will be run circles by any modern 150cc bike.
It's all relative. Yeah, it handles great for a Bullet. Don’t pretend it’s some kind of sportbike though. At heart, it’s still a heavy, long wheelbase cruiser.
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