The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has been designed to attract a new breed of riders, younger riders looking to upgrade from 150 - 200 cc motorcycles, non-Royal Enfield riders who may find the brand a little “too classic” and women riders, or just new riders. So, it’s more compact, lighter, and more affordable than the other 350 cc Royal Enfield motorcycles sharing the same J-Series engine. The design is more neo than retro, and it’s stance a little smaller, more accessible than the usual Royal Enfield. Is it worth considering? Check out this short review, in pictures from our first ride review.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Review
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is still a retro-styled roadster, but it's more compact, smaller in size than other 350 cc models from Royal Enfield, and has a more contemporary and youthful design. The 790 mm seat height, shorter wheelbase, 17-inch wheels with sharper steering geometry along with lower kerb weight makes it more accessible and friendlier than the traditional Royal Enfield 350 cc models.
Also Read: Pros & Cons Of Royal Enfield Hunter 350 - Should You Buy It?
The 350 cc, J-Series engine is shared with the Classic 350 and Meteor 350 and makes an identical 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. But it has been remapped to offer a slightly crisper throttle feel with different ignition and fuelling. Top speed is a claimed 114 kmph, while fuel efficiency is a claimed 36.2 kmpl.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Vs Rivals Specifications Comparison
With its sharp steering, 17-inch front wheel, and lighter kerb weight, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is agile and nimble on its feet, perhaps one of the most sportier 350 cc models from the brand. It's not sportbike, but is light on its feet and impresses with its agility.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Variants, Trims Explained
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 will hit triple digit speeds easily and will hit 110-115 kmph when prodded, but it's best enjoyed short shifting through the gears, and in speeds between 70-80 kmph, rather than chasing acceleration and top-end performance.
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With prices beginning at Rs. 1,49,900 (Ex-showroom) for the base Retro variant with single-channel ABS, rear drum brake and tubed-type tyres on spoked wheels, the pricing makes the Hunter 350 a very attractive proposition, both for Royal Enfield fans, and even for non-RE riders, or new riders looking for a first bike. It's affordable, easy to ride, accessible, and looks contemporary, while retaining the attractive neo-retro flavour.
