Here is another retro motorcycle that is older than some of the readers of IAB. It definitely is much older than yours truly. However, it was not all sunshine for this 1978 Enfield Mini Bullet. The motorcycle was in bad shape when IAB reader R Deena found it in Haryana. R Deena purchased the bike in scrap condition for about INR 35,000.
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His brother, who owns a Royal Enfield Showroom, Aadith Motors, in Mysore, helped him with the restoration process. Restoring the motorcycle at his brother’s showroom cut down the cost significantly and helped save a retro-classic from its ill fate. The folks at Aadith Motors deserve a round of applause for the excellent restoration job.
The motorcycle, when found in Haryana, was painted black with white highlights on the fuel tank. During the restoration, R Deena decided to give it a bright colour, and he opted for the shade that was seen on the promotional poster for the Mini Bullet. Thus, post-restoration, the Enfield Mini Bullet 200 received a shade of red with white paint on either side of the fuel tank. On top of the fuel tank is a retro-style filler cap with “Enfield” and “Bullet” engraved on it.
Enfield branding can be seen on the fuel tank and on the left side of the engine while the Mini Bullet badge occupies the space on the side panel. The front fascia features a spherical headlight with a chrome surround. The cockpit features an asymmetric design and a single-pod instrument console. The fuel tank is followed by a single piece, flat-style saddle with a small bump dividing the rider and the pillion seat. The rear gets the original tail light that features a unique design.
The front and the rear fenders get a black finish that adds a contrast to the red paint of the motorcycle. Hardware specifications have remained in stock condition, and the Mini Bullet rides on conventional telescopic forks at the front and twin sided springs at the rear. Stopping power comes from drum brakes on both ends. Mechanical specifications include a 197 cc, two-stroke, single-cylinder engine that churns out a maximum power of 12.7 bhp and 14 Nm of peak torque.
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“It’ll mean more to you with every passing year,” said the tagline in the original promotional poster for the motorcycle, and we agree to that.
