Writing after riding 1012 kms std 350 cc uce. This is my second bullet . The one I rode before for 4 years was a std 86 model . Since I have ridden both I will mention the good that RE has brought in the UCE and what it has lost from the Old heritage . UCE pros :- The UCE is an excellent vehicle to commute and handle . It feels much lighter , No tension of getting the back kick and good fuel average . ( 43 km/lit - Filling from Shell compared to 30 km/lit from my old one) . It has lower maintenance cost as requires oil change at 6k compared to 3k in the old one.
This new bike can be maintained by one who has a mechanical trend. ( I used to adjust tappets, change the engine oil , oil filter and air filter in the old bike myself ) . Can accelerate and run at higher speed than old one ( Can feel from the engine although I have taken it to 60 only as its in engine run in period ) Feels it has longer wheel base ( could be my illusion) . The USP for city and highway has both increased than the old as its easier to handle and runs faster . Cons :- The thump is gone . I find it clumsy to open the spark plug in the right side . Feels like riding a big hero Honda , till you accumulate the some carbon in the silencer muffler to get the thump . In case you over fill your engine oil chamber , you cannot siphon out like the old bullet . No disk brakes ( RE should consider fitting one ) The silencer is too long .
In case you cross a high hump with pillion , the tip will touch the hump. The rear tyre is thin . It should be wider with better grip. For buyers and Owners:- Its a dream bike to have at the cost .Its real value for money and worth waiting for months . One should develop a trend in working with tools and learn the mechanics . This is not a bike to be kicked and ridden but to be cared and ridden . Not aware of the longevity of the engine , but the old CI could run for 200 thousand kms without the 1st over sizing if cared well. In case you change the engine oil in 5k for UCE if you are running it hard , the bike will be much better and believe it will run at least 100 thousand. Suggestion :- Read the manual and follow instructions as mentioned . Do not change the silencer without consultation with RE as the silencer has a back thrust which effects engine performance and life .
Regards
Swarup Sarkar