Royal Enfield has made E20 retrofit kits available for older motorcycles to address compatibility issues with 20 percent ethanol-blended fuel. The kits are aimed at BS3 and BS4 carbureted UCE models including the Classic 350, Bullet 350, and Thunderbird.
- E20 carburetor kits for BS3 and BS4 models availabel
- Kits include ethanol-compatible fuel lines, seals, and gaskets
Royal Enfield E20 kit details
Retrofit kits available for 350cc and 500cc UCE engines
Royal Enfield had earlier mentioned to us that its entire portfolio has been E20 compliant since the implementation of BS6 norms in 2020. The conversion kit currently on sale is therefore meant for BS3 and BS4 motorcycles, particularly the 350cc UCE engines that used a carburetor. The increased ethanol content in current-day fuel can lead to accelerated wear of rubber and certain metal components on these motorcycles, and the kit comprises replacement parts
– including O-rings, tubes, and seals – that are more resistant over the long term.Dealerships we spoke to mentioned that the E20 conversion kit for BS4 models costs Rs 1,700. While there is no specific kit for the 500cc engine, they recommend upgrading certain fuel system components to avoid potential blockages in the long run.
Older motorcycles running on E20 fuel are also likely to see a drop in fuel efficiency. How much the conversion kit will be able to counter this remains to be seen, and while a slight improvement can be expected, it is unlikely that efficiency will return to pre-E20 levels.
The kits are available through authorised Royal Enfield service centres, but a couple of those we contacted did not have them in stock. It’s best to speak to your preferred service centre beforehand to confirm availability.
