After hearing all the hyped up info I had of this bike, I bought one new from Marikar Motors in Chennai in 1997-Enfield Bullet Standard 350 12V. It cost about Rs. 60, 000/- on road.
The initial 3 free services were not up to the mark with respect to electricals and battery. I had to change to a new battery within 1 year. The service was not up to the mark. Then, I went to a well recommended road side mechanic. From then on, maintenance issues have been hassle free.
About owning the bike, I am happy with the ride quality. As this was my first motorcyle, I cannot compare it to other bikes. I have ridden it for 100, 000 km plus now. For the first 50, 000 kms, its average was around 45 kmpl. From 50, 000 to 100, 000 kms, its average was 40 kmpl. Now, at 7 years, the average is 37 kmpl. I have changed the rear tyre once and I have changed the chain and sprocket twice. I have also changed the battery thrice in all. Apart from these, only oil changes, punctures, water washes, and other regular maintenance as on any other bike.
After this much of usage, I am still able to maintain speeds of around 90 kmph, without the engine straining, even on long rides (100+ kms). I have used it for both city and rural use. I am very happy for the value for money as well as longevity of the bike. It gives good riding pleasure. It feels like eating butter. I am not a member of any riding club neither am I a technically sound person, but still I have not found the working mechanism difficult to understand. I am happy over my purchase.