In India’s thriving motorcycle market, Royal Enfield has always been a symbol of tradition and ruggedness. However, with the launch of the Hunter 350, the brand has managed to bring something fresh and exciting to the table. Designed for the urban rider, this motorcycle is a perfect blend of Royal Enfield’s classic charm and modern practicality.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Hunter 350 a standout in the competitive 350cc segment.
Eye-Catching Design That Stands Out
The Hunter 350 is unmistakably a Royal Enfield but with a contemporary twist. Its design retains the brand’s retro essence while embracing a youthful, urban aesthetic.
The round headlamp remains a signature feature, but now it’s paired with LED indicators for a modern touch. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a hallmark of Royal Enfield, is slightly more compact, giving the bike a sleek and agile look.
Royal Enfield offers the Hunter 350 in two trims: Retro and Metro.
- The Retro variant caters to purists, featuring wire-spoke wheels and a simple instrument cluster.
- The Metro variant, on the other hand, is packed with modern features like alloy wheels, tripper navigation, and a digital-analog instrument cluster.
At the rear, the stubby exhaust adds to the bike’s sporty appearance, while the LED taillamp ensures a sharp and cohesive design.
The compact dimensions and low seat height (790mm) make the Hunter 350 perfect for city riding, offering a comfortable and confident experience for both new and seasoned riders.
Powerful and Refined 350cc Engine
The Hunter 350 is powered by a 349cc, air-oil cooled, single-cylinder engine, the same one found in the Meteor 350 and Classic 350. However, this engine has been fine-tuned to suit the Hunter’s dynamic character.
Key specifications of the engine include:
- Power: 20.2 bhp at 6100 rpm
- Torque: 27 Nm at 4000 rpm
While these figures may not be groundbreaking, they are perfectly suited for the Hunter’s intended use as an urban cruiser. The power delivery is smooth and responsive, with a strong mid-range that makes city riding enjoyable.
What sets this engine apart is its refinement. Unlike older Royal Enfields, which were notorious for vibrations, the Hunter 350 is incredibly smooth at all speeds. The classic Royal Enfield thump is still present but has been refined for a more sophisticated feel.
The 5-speed gearbox is slick and precise, making gear changes effortless. Fuel efficiency is another highlight, with the bike delivering a mileage of 30-35 km/l in real-world conditions, making it economical for daily commutes.
Agile Ride and Handling
The Hunter 350 truly shines when it comes to ride and handling. Designed specifically for urban environments, it offers a level of agility that sets it apart from other Royal Enfield models.
The bike features an all-new chassis, with a shorter wheelbase and sharper steering geometry. This makes the Hunter incredibly easy to maneuver through city traffic and tight spaces.
The suspension setup includes:
- Front: 41mm telescopic forks
- Rear: Twin tube emulsion shock absorbers
This configuration strikes a perfect balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension soaks up potholes and bumps with ease, while still providing a firm, confident ride when cornering.
Braking performance is impressive, thanks to:
- Front brake: 300mm disc
- Rear brake: 270mm disc
- Dual-channel ABS (available on the Metro variant)
The Hunter 350 rides on 17-inch wheels, with the Metro variant featuring wider tubeless tyres for better grip and stability. Whether you’re weaving through traffic or enjoying a spirited ride, the Hunter 350 feels planted and responsive.
Modern Features Without Overcomplication
Royal Enfield has equipped the Hunter 350 with features that cater to modern riders while keeping the bike accessible and affordable.
The Metro variant comes with a digital-analog instrument cluster, which provides essential information like speed, fuel level, and trip data. The top-spec Metro model also includes a Tripper navigation pod, offering turn-by-turn navigation via smartphone connectivity.
Other notable features include:
- LED lighting for the tail lamp and indicators, enhancing visibility.
- A USB charging port under the side panel, allowing riders to charge their devices on the go.
- High-quality switchgear that feels premium and durable.
These thoughtful additions make the Hunter 350 a practical and modern choice for daily riders.
Comfortable Ergonomics for All-Day Riding
The Hunter 350 prioritizes rider comfort without compromising on style. The neutral riding position and wide handlebars make it easy to navigate city traffic and enjoy longer rides.
The well-padded seat offers excellent support for both the rider and pillion, making the bike suitable for daily commutes and weekend getaways. However, taller riders might find the compact dimensions slightly restrictive on extended journeys.
With a ground clearance of 150mm, the Hunter 350 handles uneven Indian roads with ease. However, care is needed when navigating larger speed breakers, especially with a pillion and luggage.
Affordable Pricing and Attractive Options
Priced between ₹1.50 lakh and ₹1.75 lakh (ex-showroom), the Hunter 350 offers great value for money. It competes with rivals like the Honda CB350RS and Jawa Forty Two, but stands out with its unique combination of style, refinement, and agility.
Royal Enfield offers the Hunter 350 in a variety of colors and finishes, ranging from the subtle Dapper Grey to the vibrant Rebel Red, ensuring there’s a look to suit every rider’s personality.
The Competition: A Strong Contender in the 350cc Segment
In the competitive 350cc segment, the Hunter 350 faces tough competition from bikes like the Honda CB350RS, Jawa Forty Two, and even Royal Enfield’s own Classic 350 and Meteor 350.
What sets the Hunter apart is its urban-friendly design, agile handling, and refined performance. While it may not be the most powerful bike in its class, it offers a well-rounded package that appeals to both new and experienced riders.
Conclusion: A Fresh Chapter for Royal Enfield
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a game-changer for the brand, combining classic design with modern functionality. It’s a bike that respects Royal Enfield’s heritage while catering to the needs of today’s riders.
Whether you’re looking for a stylish commuter, a weekend tourer, or your first Royal Enfield, the Hunter 350 delivers on all fronts. With its refined engine, agile handling, and competitive pricing, it’s a motorcycle that promises to win hearts and turn heads.
In a market that’s evolving rapidly, the Hunter 350 is Royal Enfield’s way of saying, “We’re here for the next generation of riders.” It’s not just a motorcycle; it’s an invitation to experience the legacy of Royal Enfield in a whole new way.
