Classic and Classy Motorcycles Ltd

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1950s Royal Enfield Bullet 350/500 Valuation Report

Date: August 2025

Historical Overview

The post-war Royal Enfield Bullet evolved through the 1950s in 350 cc and 500 cc forms, with rigid/plunger early frames giving way to swing-arm designs and popular Trials derivatives. UK results show a clear split between 350 and 500 capacities, with factory Trials-spec machines carrying a premium. Original tinware and matching numbers are critical; many examples were modified or repainted over decades of use.

UK Valuation Summary (by condition and capacity)

Condition	350 (G2 / Bullet 350)	500 (Bullet 500)	Example External Source (non-link reference)
Project / Restoration Non-runner or incomplete; often needs top-end/gearbox work, electrics, wheels and full cosmetics. Trials projects with missing alloy parts sit higher.	£1,200 – £2,200	£1,800 – £2,800	H&H Classics – 1959 Bullet 350 sold £2,530; Iconic Auctioneers – 1961 Bullet 350 sold £1,463
Roadworthy / Presentable Running and usable; largely complete with older paint/chrome; minor non-OEM items acceptable. Factory Trials or very tidy swing-arm examples trend to the top.	£3,000 – £4,500	£3,800 – £5,500	Car & Classic – UK sold/asking Bullet 1950s; The Saleroom – multi-house UK results
Restored / Excellent High-quality restoration or outstanding survivor; matching numbers and correct tinware; strong documentation. Genuine 1950s Bullet Trials examples command the upper band.	£5,000 – £7,500	£6,000 – £9,000	Bonhams – 1954 Bullet 346 Trials sold £7,590; Iconic Auctioneers – 1955 Bullet 346 sold £2,185 (context)

Notes: Verified UK outcomes include a 1959 Bullet 350 at £2,530 (project tier) and a 1954 Bullet 346 Trials at £7,590 (top-end reference). Standard tidy road bikes with history sit mid-bands; factory Trials, matching-numbers 500s and very original paintwork examples push higher.

Value Influencing Factors

• Capacity & spec: 500s and genuine factory Trials models command premiums over standard 350s.
• Originality & completeness: Correct mudguards, toolbox, tank, alloy cases and instruments materially increase value.
• Mechanical condition: Evidence of engine/gearbox rebuilds and charging/brake work lifts results.
• Documentation: V5C, RF60 logbooks, period invoices and restoration photos build buyer confidence.
• Venue & timing: Major UK motorcycle auctions (e.g., Stafford) and well-presented summer listings achieve stronger prices.

Conclusion

In the UK, 1950s Bullet 350s typically achieve £3k–£4.5k as tidy riders and £5k–£7.5k when restored or very original. Bullet 500s sit higher at £3.8k–£5.5k for presentable bikes and £6k–£9k for excellent, documented machines. Projects range from roughly £1.2k–£2.8k depending on capacity and completeness; factory Trials examples and top-spec 500s reach the top of the ranges.

Source attribution (non-link references): H&H Classics – 1959 Royal Enfield Bullet 350 sold £2,530; Iconic Auctioneers – 1961 Bullet 350 sold £1,463; Iconic Auctioneers – 1955 Bullet 346 sold £2,185; Bonhams – 1954 Bullet 346 Trials sold £7,590; The Saleroom – multi-house UK results; Car & Classic – UK sold/asking context.

All Valuations