Can I Install Royal Enfield Classic 500 Chrome Fuel Tank on Classic 350?
The Royal Enfield Classic 500 and Classic 350 share many similarities, but there are key differences that could affect compatibility when installing the Classic 500's fuel tank on a Classic 350. This article explores the compatibility issues and provides recommendations on the installation process.
Compatibility Considerations
Fuel Tank Mounting
The mounting points for the fuel tank may differ between the Classic 350 and Classic 500. To ensure a proper fit, you must check if the mounting brackets align perfectly. This step is crucial to avoid any safety issues and to achieve the desired alignment.
Fuel Pump and Lines
The Classic 500 has a different fuel pump and fuel line setup compared to the Classic 350. If the Classic 500 tank comes with an integrated fuel pump, it might not be compatible with the Classic 350s system. It is essential to confirm compatibility before proceeding with the installation.
Capacity and Shape
The shape and capacity of the fuel tank can vary, which may impact the bike's handling and aesthetics. It is important to evaluate whether the new tank can fit within the bike's design without compromising its functionality.
Electrical Connections
If the tank has electrical components, such as a fuel gauge, ensure that the wiring is compatible with your Classic 350. This includes verifying that the fuel gauge or other sensors can be properly integrated into the existing electrical system.
Recommendation
While it is theoretically possible to install the Classic 500 Chrome fuel tank on a Classic 350 with some modifications, it is generally advisable to check with a Royal Enfield dealer or a qualified mechanic to confirm compatibility and ensure a safe installation. They can provide guidance on any necessary modifications or adjustments needed for a proper fit.
The process involves several technical complications, including:
Changing the fuel delivery system from carbureted to fuel injection, which requires modifying a part of the bike's wiring system. Resetting the 350cc engine's timing and gear valve, which is a complex task. Installing an electronic fuel injection system and performing a complete re-mapping to ensure it fits with the 350cc engine. Adapting the ignition settings of the bike.After these modifications, you will be able to fit the 500cc Chrome fuel tank on your Classic 350. However, given the complexity of the task, it is recommended to stick with the stock fuel tank for the following reasons:
The electronic fuel injection system for a Royal Enfield costs about Rs 20,000, and the installation and fitting of the fuel tank could cost up to Rs 30,000 or more. The EFI system of Royal Enfield is not always reliable, and a small mistake by a mechanic could lead to a complex issue.For a simpler and more cost-effective solution, you could order your fuel tank to be repainted to resemble the classic Chrome 500. This is the simplest and cheapest way to achieve the desired look without the hassle of extensive modifications.
By carefully considering these factors and potentially consulting a professional, you can make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the installation.