Lot 273: Royal Enfield 346cc Bullet

Enfield revived the Bullet name in 1948 for a sensational new 350 sports bike with swinging-arm rear suspension. The newcomer featured an overhead-valve engine that housed its dry-sump oil tank in a compartment in the crankcase's rear, to which the four-speed gearbox was rigidly bolted in a form of semi-unitary construction. The Bullet could be had in road, trials or scrambles versions, with equipment and gearing to suit the application, while there was even a racer in the mid-1950s. Production of both 350 and 500 Bullets ceased in 1962, the name passing to the 350cc version of the unit-construction Crusader 250. This example of the Redditch factory's popular single was restored circa 1990, some £1,500 being spent on its refurbishment, and after completion was used on the road until 2002, since when it has been laid up. Described by the private vendor as in generally good condition, the machine is offered with restoration invoices and Swansea V5C registration document. 12-volt electrics, a high-output alternator, electronic ignition and chromed/stainless mudguards are the only listed deviations from factory specification.