An Unlikely encounter
Every motorcyclist has their favorite brand and models, often remaining loyal for years—until something remarkable happens that changes everything. Our Royal Enfield love story began unexpectedly when our cherished Suzuki Gladius was stolen. It was a horrible experience, and we went through all the stages of grief, from shock to anger to acceptance. Left without a bike, we missed the adventures and the freedom of the open road.
Determined to fill the void, we attended a motorcycle show, initially considering the then-new Honda Rebel 1100cc. But something just didn’t click; the spark wasn’t there. Feeling slightly deflated, we wandered a few hundred meters further and then it happened—love at first sight. There it stood, proudly displayed: a Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Fireball in Matte Green.
The History, the Near Disappearance, and The Comeback
Mesmerized, we realized we knew little about Royal Enfield. Our curiosity led to research, and what we discovered amazed us. Royal Enfield, established in 1901 in Redditch, Worcestershire, England, is the world’s oldest continuously producing motorcycle brand. The company became iconic for its rugged, reliable bikes, particularly the legendary Bullet model. However, by the late 20th century, the brand faced significant challenges, nearly disappearing from the market.
World’s Longest Continuously Produced Motorcycle: Royal Enfield Bullet (Since 1948)
In 1994, Eicher Motors, an Indian automaker, acquired Royal Enfield. At that time, the company was struggling, with annual sales of only about 25,000 bikes. The brand worked diligently to create models that were accessible, reliable, and true to their heritage while enhancing style and comfort. This commitment led to a resurgence in popularity, especially in India, where Royal Enfield became a cultural icon. Eventually, the company expanded back into global markets, rekindling its international presence.
Today, the designs are crafted in England, blending British heritage with Indian resilience. The result? Motorcycles that are charmingly retro yet thoughtfully modern—simple machines that capture the spirit of motorcycling at its purest. This revival has been nothing short of impressive. In 2024 alone, Royal Enfield sold approximately 944,000 motorcycles worldwide. This achievement positioned Royal Enfield as the tenth-largest motorcycle manufacturer globally – and they are growing!
Why We Chose Royal Enfield
1. Retro-Inspired Simplicity
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once said, “Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.” Royal Enfield embodies this philosophy with their beautifully minimalistic designs—no unnecessary gadgets or complicated electronics. It’s just you, the bike, and the road, fostering a pure connection between rider and machine.
2. Versatility
Norway offers a diverse range of riding experiences, from winding coastal roads to rugged mountain passes. Royal Enfield bikes are versatile enough to handle all of these terrains. They may not be the fastest or most powerful, but they are dependable and easy to handle—ideal for both seasoned riders and newcomers exploring Norway’s landscapes.
3. Proven in the Himalayas
If a motorcycle can conquer the rugged terrains of the Himalayas, it can certainly handle Norway’s fjords and mountain passes. Royal Enfield’s Himalayan model, in particular, was built to endure harsh conditions, providing peace of mind on long journeys.
4. Inclusive Design
In an industry historically dominated by men, Royal Enfield stands out by also having women in key design positions. This inclusivity brings fresh perspectives that are noticeable and greatly appreciated by us and countless others.
5. Accessibility
Royal Enfield bikes are known for their approachable power and handling, making them the perfect “fly and ride” option for a wide spectrum of riders. Anybody can get on these bikes and in a matter of minutes feel confident and comfortable handling them.
6. Old-School, Pure Motorcycling
Riding a Royal Enfield is about the experience—not just the speed. As one wise man (yes, we mean Freddie Dobbs) aptly put it, it’s all about the “smiles per mile.” The thump of the engine, the tactile vibrations, and the raw, unfiltered ride evoke a sense of nostalgia and adventure that’s rare in today’s tech-saturated world.
7. Vibrant Community
Choosing Royal Enfield has welcomed us into a global community bound by shared values. It’s a celebration of tradition, authenticity, and a passion for exploration. Royal Enfield riders share a love for simplicity, nostalgia, and the raw, unfiltered riding experience. There’s a deep sense of camaraderie built on mutual respect, humility, and a genuine passion for the journey itself.
A Perfect Match for Nordic Riders
What started with a first encounter with the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 has developed into a wonderful partnership between us and Royal Enfield. We are now excited with every new model, eager to test ride and experience each one. We love riding Royal Enfield bikes because they embody our philosophy of slow travel, authenticity, and adventure. These retro-inspired machines complement Norway’s scenic landscapes beautifully.
It’s serendipitous how a stolen Suzuki led us to Royal Enfield, but we wouldn’t have it any other way. That day at the motorcycle show, we didn’t just find a bike—we found a new direction for Nordic Riders. Now, we’re excited to share this experience with you.
Whether you’re planning a scenic ride along Norway’s fjords or embarking on an adventurous mountain pass, our Royal Enfields are ready to take you there, one memorable mile at a time.
Take Care Until The Next Time,
Your Nordic Riders
