Royal Enfield, renowned for its rugged charm and timeless design, is set to capture a younger audience with the Hunter 350. This latest addition to the lineup promises a unique blend of retro aesthetics and modern features. With a compact design, refined performance, and cutting-edge technology, the Hunter 350 aims to deliver an exciting and versatile biking experience while staying true to Royal Enfield’s heritage. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated motorcycle.
Table of Contents
Design and Styling
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 stands out with its youthful and sporty design, marking a departure from the more traditional Royal Enfield models. It features a compact, urban-friendly build with a round LED headlamp, retro-inspired analog-digital instrument cluster, and a teardrop-shaped fuel tank enhanced by bold tank pads for an aggressive look. The sleek body lines and a shorter wheelbase make it highly maneuverable, ideal for city commutes. Adding to its appeal, the Hunter sports a newly designed exhaust with a larger muffler, delivering the signature Royal Enfield thump. Vibrant color options further cater to younger riders, giving the bike a fresh and modern vibe while retaining its classic charm.
Engine and Performance
The Hunter 350 is powered by the same 349cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine found in the Meteor 350 and Classic 350. This engine produces 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. While not the most powerful in its segment, the engine provides a smooth and refined ride, perfectly suited for urban traffic and highway cruising. The inclusion of fuel injection and a modern ECU ensures improved throttle response and better fuel efficiency. The 5-speed gearbox allows the engine to operate efficiently across different speeds, offering a comfortable and enjoyable ride whether navigating crowded streets or investigating open roads.
Chassis and Suspension
Built on a twin downtube spine frame, the Hunter 350 promises stability and comfort across various terrains. The bike features telescopic forks at the front and twin rear shock absorbers, designed to absorb road irregularities with ease. This suspension setup ensures a smooth ride, making the Hunter suitable for daily commutes and weekend getaways alike. With a focus on handling, the frame enhances the bike’s agility, providing riders with confidence in both city traffic and on winding roads.
Braking System
The Hunter 350 features single disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels, paired with dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety. This braking setup ensures controlled and reliable stopping power, even in wet or slippery conditions. The dual-channel ABS adds an extra layer of security, making the bike an excellent choice for riders of all experience levels. Whether on a fast highway ride or navigating busy urban streets, the braking system provides a reassuring and confident experience.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Staying true to Royal Enfield’s reputation for comfortable long-distance rides, the Hunter 350 offers a rider-friendly ergonomic design. The upright seating position, combined with slightly forward-set footpegs, ensures comfort on both short city trips and long tours. The seat is wide and plush, providing excellent support for both the rider and pillion. Narrow handlebars enhance maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through traffic. Overall, the Hunter 350 delivers a versatile and enjoyable riding experience, tailored to meet the needs of modern riders.
Technology and Features
The Hunter 350 incorporates modern features while maintaining its retro roots. It comes with a digital-analog instrument cluster displaying essential ride data, including speed, fuel levels, and trip details. The Tripper Navigation system, first introduced on the Meteor 350, offers turn-by-turn navigation through a connected smartphone, making city navigation hassle-free. LED headlamps and taillamps ensure improved visibility, while a USB charging port adds convenience for riders who need to keep their devices powered on the go. These modern touches enhance the bike’s functionality, making it a practical choice for both daily use and long journeys.
Competitors
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 enters a competitive 350cc segment and faces strong rivals. The Honda CB350 RS, known for its refined engine and retro-modern styling, offers a premium riding experience with features like Bluetooth connectivity and dual-channel ABS. Similarly, the Jawa Forty-Two appeals to riders with its sporty handling and distinctive design, powered by a 293cc engine. The Benelli Imperiale 400 provides a more premium alternative with its 374cc engine, while the Bajaj Dominar 250 targets younger riders seeking performance and advanced features. Additionally, the Yezdi Roadster combines a modern-retro design with a powerful 334cc engine, making it another strong contender in this segment.
Expected Price of the Royal Enfield Hunter 350
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is expected to be priced between ₹1.60 lakh and ₹1.80 lakh (ex-showroom). This makes it a highly competitive offering in the 350cc market. The base variant is likely to be priced around ₹1.60 lakh, while the top variant could reach ₹1.80 lakh, depending on the features and customizations offered. With its balance of performance, style, and value, the Hunter 350 is poised to attract a wide range of riders, from urban commuters to long-distance travelers.
The Hunter 350 offers a compelling package of classic design, modern features, and reliable performance. Its versatility and competitive pricing position it as a strong contender in the 350cc segment, appealing to both new and experienced riders.
FAQs
What engine powers the Hunter 350?
It has a 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine.
What is the expected price of the Hunter 350?
The price is expected between ₹1.60 and ₹1.80 lakh.
Does the Hunter 350 have Tripper Navigation?
Yes, it offers Tripper Navigation for turn-by-turn directions.
Who are the competitors of Hunter 350?
Key competitors include Honda CB350 RS, Jawa Forty-Two, and Yezdi Roadster.
Is the Hunter 350 suitable for long rides?
Yes, its ergonomic design and comfortable seat make it ideal for touring.
