A big surprise and huge deviation in design language
happened at the EICMA show in Italy when Indian motorcycle manufacturer Royal
Enfield showed the KX Concept motorcycle. Inspired by the classic KX 1140
V-twin motorcycle of the 1930s, Royal Enfield says the KX Concept is a showcase
of their design prowess and was completed in a mere six months.
Although an interpretation of the classic design,
the connection between the KX Concept and its predecessor from 80 years ago can
easily be discerned. Cues to the 1930s design can be seen in the wide
handlebars, V engine, “floating” single seat, flat-tip exhaust and fuel tank
finished in British Racing Green.
Royal Enfield did not disclose the engine capacity
of the KX but a “838” logo on the engine might be an indication. Exhaust exits
on the right side, in the traditional style. A unique touch on the KX Concept
is its suspension, with a girder fork – possibly made from aluminium –
installed on the front end, and the headlight cowl integrated into the fork
covers. At the back is a triangluar single-sided swingarm attached to a shock
absorber under the seat.
Modern equipment installed on the Royal Enfield KX
Concept include disc brakes and rear, clamped by Brembo callipers, with the front
wheel being a 19-inch hoop shod in Maxxis DTR-1 rubber. Chain drive gets power
to the rear wheel and LED lighting is used throughout, while a circular digital
instrument readout is found inside the cockpit.