Royal Enfield Hunter 350 – The Legendary Urban Cruiser With a Timeless Retro Soul
Introduction
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is one of the most exciting motorcycles to come from the legendary Royal Enfield stable in recent years. Designed for urban riders who want a mix of modern practicality and classic retro charm, the Hunter 350 has quickly become a favorite among young enthusiasts. It offers agile handling, stylish design, and the robust engine performance Royal Enfield is known for – all packed into a compact and affordable package.
Design and Styling – Compact Yet Retro
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 takes inspiration from classic motorcycles while introducing a youthful and modern edge. Some of its standout design features include:
- A round retro headlamp paired with a neatly sculpted fuel tank.
- Wide handlebars and upright ergonomics for easy maneuvering.
- Compact frame and shorter wheelbase compared to other Royal Enfield models.
- Multiple color options – from subtle classic shades to bold dual-tone finishes.
This design makes the Hunter 350 appealing to a wide audience, especially riders who want a retro-inspired bike that looks equally at home in city traffic and weekend rides.
Engine and Performance
At its heart, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is powered by the J-series 349cc single-cylinder, air-oil-cooled engine that also powers the Meteor 350 and Classic 350.
- Power: 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm.
- Torque: 27 Nm at 4,000 rpm.
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox.
- Top Speed: Around 114–120 km/h.
This engine is known for its smoothness, strong low-end torque, and refined performance. The Hunter 350 makes city rides enjoyable with quick acceleration, while still being capable of comfortable highway cruising.
Ride Comfort and Ergonomics
Unlike traditional Royal Enfield models that are heavier and larger, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 offers a lightweight and approachable feel.
- Weighs about 181 kg, making it the lightest RE motorcycle.
- A low seat height of 800 mm ensures accessibility for shorter riders.
- Upright riding posture with wide handlebars reduces fatigue.
- Well-padded seat for both rider and pillion comfort.
This makes the Hunter 350 a great choice for daily commuting, especially in traffic-heavy cities where maneuverability and comfort matter most.
Handling and Suspension
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has been tuned for nimble handling and easy control.
- Shorter wheelbase (1,370 mm) improves agility in tight spaces.
- 17-inch wheels with wide tyres provide excellent grip.
- Telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers deliver a balance of comfort and stability.
- Dual-channel ABS with disc brakes on both ends ensures reliable braking.
This setup makes the Hunter 350 not just a cruiser but also an urban motorcycle designed for real-world riding conditions.
Features and Technology
While staying true to its retro identity, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 comes with essential modern features:
- Digital-analog instrument console with trip meter, fuel gauge, and gear position indicator.
- USB charging port for convenience.
- Optional Tripper Navigation pod (in certain variants).
- Multiple variants – Retro and Metro – catering to different budgets and style preferences.
This blend of retro styling and modern tech enhances the appeal of the Hunter 350 for today’s riders.
Pricing and Value
One of the biggest selling points of the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is its pricing. Starting at around ₹1.5 lakh (ex-showroom, India), it is one of the most affordable motorcycles in the Royal Enfield lineup. Despite its competitive price, it doesn’t compromise on design, performance, or quality, making it excellent value for money.
Rivals and Market Position
In terms of competition, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 takes on bikes like the Honda CB350 RS, Jawa 42, and Yezdi Roadster. However, with its lower price point, stylish design, and the trusted Royal Enfield brand, the Hunter 350 has carved out a unique space in the market.
Who Should Buy the Royal Enfield Hunter 350?
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is ideal for:
- Young riders looking for their first Royal Enfield motorcycle.
- Urban commuters who want retro looks with modern practicality.
- Riders who prefer lightweight, nimble handling.
- Enthusiasts seeking a budget-friendly cruiser with a distinct personality.
Final Verdict
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a perfect combination of classic retro styling and modern engineering. With its refined engine, agile handling, stylish looks, and budget-friendly price, it offers a unique proposition in India’s mid-capacity motorcycle segment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider wanting an urban-friendly cruiser, the Hunter 350 delivers the best of both worlds.
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