Royal Enfield Hunter 350 : Royal Enfield has successfully blended tradition and modernity with the launch of the Hunter 350, a nimble street scrambler that redefines the 350cc motorcycle segment. With its blend of classic design and urban-friendly features, the Hunter 350 has quickly caught the attention of riders looking for a stylish yet practical motorcycle.
Design : Retro with a Modern Twist
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 immediately stands out with its fresh, contemporary look while still holding on to the brand’s iconic elements. The round headlamp, a Royal Enfield signature, is now LED-powered, giving it a more modern and efficient edge. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank, which has become synonymous with the brand, is more compact on the Hunter, making it ideal for city commuting.
Available in two variants, Retro and Metro, the Hunter 350 caters to different preferences. The Retro version retains classic features like wire-spoke wheels and a simple instrument cluster, while the Metro variant adds modern touches like alloy wheels, a digital-analog instrument cluster, and the Tripper navigation system on the top-spec models. The design also includes a stubby exhaust and sleek LED tail lamps, rounding off the bike’s cohesive look.
With a low seat height of 790mm, the Hunter 350 is perfect for both beginners and experienced riders, making it easy to handle in heavy traffic or while maneuvering in tight spaces.
Powerful Yet Refined Engine
Under the tank, the Hunter 350 is powered by the same 349cc, air-oil cooled, single-cylinder engine found in other Royal Enfield models like the Meteor 350 and Classic 350. However, this engine has been tuned to give the Hunter a more urban-friendly, lively character. It generates 20.2 bhp at 6100 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm—numbers that are ideal for everyday city riding.
The engine offers a smooth and linear power delivery with minimal vibrations, making it far more refined compared to older Royal Enfield models. The characteristic “thump” is still present but has been dialed down to a more sophisticated level. Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, the Hunter 350 offers positive gear shifts and good fuel efficiency, with an average mileage of 30-35 km/l in real-world conditions.
Handling and Ride : Built for the City
What truly sets the Hunter 350 apart is its handling. The bike is built for agility, making it perfect for city commuting. The chassis has been redesigned to be shorter and sharper, offering quick steering and excellent maneuverability. Whether you’re navigating through crowded streets or making sharp U-turns, the Hunter 350 is a joy to ride.
The suspension setup consists of 41mm telescopic forks in the front and twin-tube emulsion shock absorbers at the rear. This configuration provides a balance between comfort and sportiness, absorbing urban road imperfections while maintaining stability through corners. The 300mm disc brake at the front and 270mm disc brake at the rear, combined with dual-channel ABS (on the Metro variant), ensure confident stopping power even in harsh conditions.
Modern Features for Today’s Rider
Royal Enfield has packed the Hunter 350 with the features that modern riders expect. The instrument cluster, especially on the Metro variant, is a neat digital-analog combination, offering essential information at a glance. The top-end Metro model also comes with the Tripper navigation system, providing turn-by-turn directions when paired with a smartphone.
Other modern touches include LED lighting for the tail lamp and indicators, a USB charging port under the left side panel, and high-quality switchgear for a premium feel. Although the headlamp remains a halogen unit, it offers that classic warm glow that Royal Enfield enthusiasts appreciate.
Comfort and Ergonomics : Designed for Long Rides
The Hunter 350’s riding position is upright and neutral, offering comfort whether you’re commuting through traffic or going on a weekend ride. The wide handlebars are slightly pulled back for better maneuverability at low speeds, and the well-contoured seat ensures comfort on long journeys. While the bike is ideal for most riders, taller individuals may find it slightly cramped on extended rides.
With a ground clearance of 150mm, the Hunter 350 is well-suited for India’s diverse road conditions. However, it’s advisable to be cautious when crossing larger speed breakers, especially when the bike is fully loaded.
Price and Value : Competitive in the 350cc Segment
Priced between ₹1.50 lakh and ₹1.75 lakh (ex-showroom), the Hunter 350 offers a competitive entry point into the Royal Enfield family. It stands out against competitors like the Honda CB350RS and Jawa Forty Two, providing a combination of iconic Royal Enfield design, reliable performance, and modern features at an accessible price.
Conclusion : A New Era for Royal Enfield
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 marks an important step in the brand’s evolution. It retains the classic appeal of the RE legacy while embracing the needs of the modern rider. Whether you’re a young professional looking for a stylish commuter or a long-time RE fan seeking a bike for daily use, the Hunter 350 offers an excellent balance of performance, design, and practicality. With its strong combination of style, smooth engine performance, and modern features, the Hunter 350 is not just a motorcycle—it’s a statement.
