iStock.com/artorn

Royal Enfield is to launch a new motorcycle based on the one used by British troops during World War Two.

The Pegasus 500 draws heavily on the RE/WD Flying Flea 125 motorcycle, which saw service with the Parachute Regiment and many other British units. During the war it was produced underground at a facility in Westwood, UK. The new incarnation is built in India.

Only 1,000 of the machines will be manufactured, of which just 190 will be available to UK buyers.

Motorcycles for the British market will feature many accurate period elements, including a paint job consisting of Service Brown and Drab Olive Green (sadly, Indian buyers will only be able to purchase it in Service Brown). It also sports the purple insignia of the 250th (Airborne) Light Company.

Additionally it features canvas panniers, blacked out silencers and a leather strap with brass buckles over the air filter.

"The story of the Flying Flea is both remarkable and inspiring, and it has a history like no other motorcycle," said Royal Enfield CEO Siddhartha Lal following the motorcycle's launch ceremony in Duxford, Cambridgeshire.

Lal went on: "Rugged military motorcycles have been an integral part of Royal Enfield's heritage and continues to be till date, as we endeavour to build classic, simple, enduring motorcycles.” He also added, "our machines have played important role in both World Wars, earning a reputation for endurance in the toughest conditions."

The firm claims to be the longest continuously operational motorcycle maker in the world. It first began motorcycle production in 1901. It is now owned by Eicher Motors of India.

UK buyers can book their Pegasus 500 online from July - for £4,999.