Like the original Woodsman, produced by Royal Enfield between 1955 -’59 and sold in the USA under the Indian brand, this is a 499cc Bullet single with high bars and a raised exhaust. However, there the similarities end, because the new Woodsman also features a solo seat, handy mini luggage rack, rear set footrests and an alloy bash plate too.
Routed around the machine’s left side (standard exhausts run along the right side) the high level system has been re-engineered to work in harmony with the engine management unit, allowing the engine to breathe more freely and creating the classic ‘British single’ exhaust note. Introduced to comply with tough new European emissions regulations, the all-new 499cc engine retains bore and stroke , but with electronic fuel injection by Keihin of Japan and a 5-speed gearbox.
This is operated via a 7-plate wet clutch, so it is both light and accurate. Power output is 28 BHP in standard form with 41.3 Nm of torque and tested under Euro 3 conditions the engine returns just under 80 mpg, which means an impressive tank range of over 200 miles before switching to reserve.
Click here to read the road test of the Royal Enfield Woodsman from MCN .
