Is the Royal Enfield Bullet 350X the hype?

Royal Enfield fans have been going gaga over the Bullet 350X for its old school looks and thumping engine. On top of that, however, has been criticism about its reliability and the performance of the bike relative to more modern versions. It’s either the perfect blend of retro style and modern engineering, or an overpriced, outdated machine with nostalgia on its back. However, the debate between die hard RE enthusiasts and those who prefer Japanese or European bikes often get heated. Of course, in discussion of whether or not the 350X can make good on its reputation and price tag, factors such as build quality, maintenance cost, and real world fuel economy enter into play. For many, the Bullet is more than the bike, it is the lifestyle, it is the status symbol. But does the riding experience make up for choosing it over other options in the market?