Royal Enfield Meteor 350 – The Perfect Cruiser for Indian Roads
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is not just a motorcycle — it’s a lifestyle statement for riders who prefer relaxed cruising over aggressive speed. With its refined J-Series engine, modern features, and classic cruiser styling, the Meteor is perfect for those who seek both comfort and timeless appeal.
Introduced as a spiritual successor to the Thunderbird, the Meteor brings modern touches like Bluetooth navigation, improved ergonomics, and a smoother ride — all while retaining the iconic Royal Enfield character.
🛠️ Engine & Performance
The Meteor 350 is powered by Royal Enfield’s J-Series 349cc engine, the same platform found in the new Classic 350 and Hunter 350. The engine delivers buttery-smooth performance, designed for effortless highway cruising and calm city rides.
- Engine Type: 349cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled, SOHC
- Maximum Power: 20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm
- Maximum Torque: 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
- Top Speed: ~115–120 km/h
- Best Cruising Speed: 80–90 km/h
The power delivery is linear, with a torquey low-end ideal for city rides, hill climbs, and highway cruising.
⛽ Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Despite its cruiser size and 350cc engine, the Meteor 350 delivers respectable fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both long rides and daily use.
- Claimed Mileage: 38–41 km/l
- Real-World Mileage: 35–38 km/l
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15 liters
- Riding Range: 500–550 km per tank
With its large fuel tank and efficient engine, the Meteor is built for touring long distances without frequent stops.
🎨 Design & Styling
The Meteor 350 combines classic cruiser design with subtle modern elements, offering a relaxed and confident road presence.
- Laid-back Cruiser Stance with Teardrop Tank
- Circular Headlamp with LED DRL Ring
- Low-slung Seat and Raised Handlebar
- Side-swept Exhaust with a Deep Thump
- Split Seats with a Wide Pillion Backrest
- Color Options: Stellar Red, Fireball Yellow, Supernova Brown, Astral Black, and more
With its chrome touches, curved tank, and retro-modern mix, the Meteor is perfect for those who love comfort cruising with style.
⚙️ Features & Technology
Royal Enfield has equipped the Meteor 350 with a range of practical and user-friendly features, ideal for touring and modern-day convenience.
- ✅ Trip Meter Console with Digi-Analog Cluster
- ✅ Tripper Navigation Pod – Turn-by-turn directions via Bluetooth using Google Maps
- ✅ USB Charging Port
- ✅ LED DRL and LED Taillight
- ✅ Electric Start and Engine Kill Switch
- ✅ Dual-Channel ABS
- ✅ Side-stand engine cut-off
While it doesn’t have ride modes or smartphone connectivity for calls, the Tripper Navigation and crisp console make it one of the most touring-friendly cruisers under ₹2.5 lakh.
🪑 Ride Comfort & Handling
The Meteor 350 shines when it comes to comfort and relaxed ergonomics, making it a great companion for both city traffic and open highways.
- Seat Height: 765 mm – very accessible for shorter riders
- Kerb Weight: 191 kg – stable and planted feel
- Suspension Setup:
- Front: 41 mm Telescopic Forks
- Rear: Twin Shock Absorbers with 6-step preload adjustment
- Footpegs: Forward set for cruiser-style riding
- Handlebar: Raised and wide for relaxed shoulders
The low center of gravity and well-padded seat ensure all-day comfort, especially for long hauls.
🛑 Braking & Safety
Braking on the Meteor is tuned for safety and ease of control:
- Front Brake: 300 mm disc
- Rear Brake: 270 mm disc
- ABS: Dual-channel (standard on all variants)
- Tyres:
- Front: 100/90-19
- Rear: 140/70-17
- Both tubeless
The wide rear tyre and cruiser chassis ensure grip and balance at all speeds, especially while cornering or riding two-up.
💰 Price & Variants
The Meteor 350 is offered in three variants, with cosmetic and feature differences:
| Variant | Features | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) |
|---|---|---|
| Fireball | Base variant with single color and minimal chrome | ₹2.05 lakh |
| Stellar | Chrome exhaust, 3D logos, pillion backrest | ₹2.11 lakh |
| Supernova | Touring screen, machined alloys, premium colors | ₹2.25 lakh |
On-road prices range from ₹2.35 lakh to ₹2.60 lakh, depending on location and variant.
✅ Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Smooth, refined engine with comfortable torque | Not for aggressive or sporty riding |
| Excellent cruiser comfort and seating | Slightly heavy in traffic conditions |
| Tripper navigation is useful for touring | No Bluetooth call/music support |
| Relaxed ergonomics and low seat height | Only 5-speed gearbox |
| Royal Enfield’s classic brand value | Design may not appeal to sportbike lovers |
🔄 Competitors
The Meteor 350 competes with:
- Jawa 42 Bobber / Jawa Classic – More style, less comfort
- Honda H’ness CB350 / CB350RS – More refined, similar price
- Benelli Imperiale 400 – Heavier, more expensive
- Yezdi Roadster – Sharper looks, more features
- Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 – More affordable but dated
Among these, the Meteor stands out for its balance of comfort, price, classic appeal, and tech features.
🏁 Final Verdict
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is one of the most comfortable, value-for-money cruisers in India, especially for those who enjoy long-distance riding. With its modern J-series engine, smooth ride, retro style, and useful features like Tripper navigation, it bridges the gap between nostalgia and modern motorcycling.
If you’re looking for a motorcycle that lets you ride easy, explore new highways, and look stylish doing it, the Meteor 350 might just be your perfect ride.
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