RE Classic Desert Storm review

Desert Storm - That’s what the new version of the Classic 500 is called thanks to its new paint job. And, the paint job is so good we actually went out hunting for an ideal setting to shoot it

The Classic 500 to me was a benchmark motorcycle. Not in terms of technological advancements or handling prowess or sheer power, even though it can be argued that among Royal Enfields, it certainly ticked all the above mentioned boxes. It was a benchmark motorcycle because it was one model that finally got all sorts of buyers into the RE fold.
There were guys looking at the Yamaha R15 and the Kawasaki Ninja who wanted to buy one. Then there were those who weren’t looking at a bike at all, but wanted the Classic 500 for no apparent reason. And most people I know wanted the Green.
To me then the Classic 500 was what a retro styled bike should be - totally cool. And now there’s a cooler version. It’s called the Desert Storm, and as you can see in these pictures, it looks gorgeous in the new hue. So much so that we rode quite a while to find the right setting to shoot it. Not that you’d mind riding the Desert Storm; not with its lovely and gutsy engine, the baritone for an exhaust note and surprise, surprise, better dynamics!
Yes, the Desert Storm though carries over the same Classic 500 engine and gearbox combo, it has a revised chassis, and as a result, it feels more stable, be it in a straight line, over bumpy roads, or around fast, easy flowing and not-too-demanding corners. It is in fact a joy to ride at the ton mark now. In case you are wondering about the braking; well, that’s quite good too. Yes, there’s still some fork flex under hard braking, but there’s good feel and progression and bite as well. In short you don’t mind riding the new Desert Storm hard; very unlike a RE of yore.
What can I say, the changes made to the Classic 500 made it a worthy enough motorcycle for anyone to consider it. But now with a lovely paint job, better dynamics and the delightful engine, it’s even more tempting.

Courtesy: www.autobild.in