Traveling India On A Royal Enfield

The Royal Enfield is the classic way to travel India. The traffic is a nightmare and the bike breaks down at the worst moments, but most bikers agree it is the best way to get around the subcontinent.

The Ups And Downs Of Enfield Travel

First, the downsides. The Enfield is a heavy and sturdy bike that needs lots of adjustment and TLC. You will spend a lot of time with various mechanics fixing various broken parts. Indian roads are dangerous and often in bad condition, and Indian traffic is a nightmare. In case of an accident you will probably end up paying because you are a foreigner, regardless of whether it was your fault.

However, while the Enfield may be heavy and slow, it can handle India’s potholed roads much better than more modern and lighter bikes. Every town usually has some sort of a mechanic, and most Indian mechanics can make an Enfield run (although not necessarily repair it). On the bike you'll avoid the horrors of Indian bus and train travel, and you are independent and free to find your own way out of the beaten track.

Surviving Indian Traffic

In Indian traffic, rules don't matter as much as who has the loudest horn. You'll be driving on the left side, but be prepared for traffic coming against you on your lane after dark without lights. You'll be dodging potholes, autorickshaws and random people appearing from nowhere as well as cows, goats and dogs that wander freely on the highways. Smaller vehicles give way to larger ones, and everyone gives way to holy cows. Despite of signs such as "Lane driving is safe driving" most Indians do not seem to know how to drive inside a lane and instead will drive between lanes. The popularity of mobile phones in India brings a new danger to the roads as many drivers use them while driving.

Traffic signs are not always in English, even in big cities. The best person to ask directions is the traffic police, who will usually speak at least some English and will be able to point you to the right direction. Asking random people on the street may lead to directions that are confusing or simply wrong.

Some Tips For The Trip

You will need an international driver's license. Some cities or states, such as Goa, have made it compulsory to wear helmets, although this rule only applies to the driver and not the passenger. Those who don't wear helmets will have to pay fines (or bribes) if they get stopped by the police.

Don't try to cover too much distance in one day. Indian roads are demanding, and average speed can be as low as 50 km/hour (and that is on a good day). The less weight you have on the bike the better, so pack as light as you can, but bring waterproofs and good sunscreen. It is very easy to get sunburned on the bike.

Read about buying or renting an Enfield in India here.

Royal Enfield Bullet

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