The Royal Enfield Bullet is not just a bike. It is a feeling. It has been part of Indian roads for decades. Now, that famous name is coming back in a new and smaller form. The Royal Enfield Bullet 250 is expected to launch in early 2026. It brings classic looks, a lighter body, and better mileage. The goal is simple. Give young riders the Bullet experience without heavy weight or high cost. Sounds exciting, right?
A New Bullet Era
Royal Enfield has kept the Bullet alive since 1931. That is a long journey. With the Bullet 250, the brand wants to open the door for new riders. This model is expected to be the most affordable Bullet yet. The ex-showroom price is around Rs 1.30 lakh. On-road prices may go from Rs 1.30 lakh to Rs 1.60 lakh. The bike sits below bigger models and targets riders upgrading from small commuter bikes.
Classic Design Lives On
One look at the Bullet 250 and you will know it is a Bullet. The round halogen headlamp comes with a chrome ring. The tear-drop fuel tank stays true to tradition. It gets hand-painted pinstripes that add old-school charm. The large metal mudguards give it a solid and vintage feel. Nothing looks modern or sharp. Everything looks calm and familiar.
Colors And Style
The Bullet 250 is expected in classic shades. These include Silver, Black, Red, and Blue. The design is simple and clean. It has a solo seat as standard, with a pillion seat as an option. The wide handlebars and upright stance make it feel relaxed. A minimal rear fender keeps the back neat. If you like clean and timeless bikes, this one fits well.
Built For Beginners
The bike uses a steel tubular frame. The total weight stays under 160 kg. That makes it easy to handle, even for new riders. Ground clearance is 140 mm, which helps on bad city roads. The seat height is 790 mm. This means most riders can place their feet flat on the ground. For learners, this gives confidence from day one.
Engine And Performance
At the heart of the Bullet 250 is a 250cc single-cylinder engine. It is air-oil cooled and tuned for smooth riding. Power output is 20.4 PS at 7750 rpm. Torque stands at 20 Nm. These numbers are not about speed. They are about steady and calm pulls. The bike feels happy at low and mid speeds, perfect for relaxed rides.
That Famous Thump
Yes, the Bullet thump is still here. Royal Enfield has worked on reducing vibrations. Long rides should feel more comfortable now. But the low-end rumble stays. You feel it when you start the engine. You hear it when you ride slow. It keeps the soul of the Bullet alive, even in this smaller engine.
Gearbox And Speed
The Bullet 250 comes with a 5-speed gearbox. The clutch action is light and smooth. Finding neutral is easier than older Bullets. The top speed is around 120 kmph. The bike can go from 0 to 60 kmph in about 7 seconds. It is not fast, but it is steady. That suits the nature of this bike.
Mileage And Efficiency
Mileage is a big talking point here. There are talks of hybrid tech from a CFMoto partnership. Because of this, the bike may deliver 45 to 50 kmpl. In city use, mileage may stay around 35 to 40 kmpl. The title also claims a high 70 kmpl figure. If even part of this comes true, running costs will be very low. On Indian roads with rising fuel prices, this matters a lot.
Ride Comfort Daily
Suspension setup is tuned for comfort. The front uses telescopic forks. The rear has twin gas-charged shock absorbers. This setup handles potholes well. It feels soft but not bouncy. You can ride slow or take gentle corners without stress. Compared to stiffer bikes, this one feels forgiving.
Wheels And Brakes
The Bullet 250 rides on 17-inch alloy wheels. The front tire is 100/90 and the rear is 120/80. Both are tubeless. Grip feels safe on city roads. Braking is handled by a 270 mm disc at the front. The rear uses a 153 mm drum brake. Single-channel ABS comes as standard. Dual-channel ABS is expected on higher trims.
Long Ride Friendly
The fuel tank capacity is 13 liters. With city mileage, you can expect a range of around 400 km. That means fewer fuel stops. The upright seating position helps on long rides. You sit straight, your arms relaxed, and legs natural. Solo rides feel great. Short rides with a pillion are also comfortable.
Simple And Smart Features
The Bullet 250 keeps things simple. It gets a semi-analog instrument cluster. You see speed, fuel level, trip meter, and gear position. There is a small digital screen for basic info. Bluetooth support may be added on higher versions. That could bring Tripper navigation.
Useful Daily Touches
There is a USB charging port for your phone. An engine kill switch is included. Self-canceling indicators add ease. These features help in daily use. There is no big TFT screen. No riding modes. No traction control. The focus stays on riding, not on screens.
Old Meets New Safety
The bike gets electric start as standard. A kick starter is also present. This keeps the old-school feel alive. A side-stand engine cut-off improves safety. If you forget to remove the stand, the engine will not run. Small things like this matter.
Ownership And Service
Royal Enfield bikes are known for easy service. The Bullet 250 continues that trend. The engine is simple and air-cooled. Service costs stay low. The first free service is at 500 km. After that, service intervals are every 3000 km. Parts are easy to find across India.
Strong Resale Value
The Bullet name carries weight. Resale value is expected to be strong. Even older Bullets sell well. With a wide service network, ownership feels stress-free. If hybrid assist does come, mileage could reach 50 kmpl. That gives it an edge over pure petrol rivals.
Custom Culture Ready
The Bullet has always been loved by custom bike fans. The 250 will be no different. Chrome parts, color options, and simple body panels make it easy to personalize. Riders enjoy adding their own touch. This helps build a strong community feel around the bike.
Rivals In The Market
The Bullet 250 will face some tough rivals. TVS Ronin offers a 225cc engine and more punch. Bajaj Avenger 220 focuses on cruiser comfort. Jawa 42 brings sporty styling. Honda CB350RS feels more refined but costs more. Yezdi Roadster has good power but lacks the Bullet sound. Among all, the Bullet 250 wins on character.
Ideal Upgrade Choice
For riders coming from 125cc or 150cc bikes, this is a big step up. You get more presence, better comfort, and a premium feel. At the same time, costs stay under control. It feels like an emotional upgrade without hurting your wallet.
A Note On Trends
In the middle of all this, brands are also launching tech products. For example, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 5G is talked about as a foldable phone with dual HD AMOLED displays. But for bike lovers, the Bullet 250 brings joy of a different kind.
Why It Feels Special
Riders talk about smoother rides and less vibration. The exhaust note still turns heads. Ownership feels personal, almost like passing down a family item. In a market full of modern machines, this bike stands out by staying true to its roots.
Final Thoughts
The Royal Enfield Bullet 250 is about balance. It blends old charm with modern needs. It is light, affordable, and easy to ride. It suits daily use and weekend trips. If you want heritage without heaviness, this bike makes sense. With launch expected in 2026, interest is already growing. The legend is not gone. It is just lighter now.
