Introduction
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is an all-new motorcycle from the iconic Indian brand. Launched in August 2022, the Hunter 350 is a more accessible and contemporary offering compared to RE\’s usual lineup of retro-styled bikes. In this review, we take a close look at what the new Royal Enfield has to offer for riders looking for an easy-going yet playful motorcycle.
Overview of the Royal Enfield Hunter 350
The Hunter 350 is meant to appeal to a wide range of buyers, from non-RE fans to newer riders. It aims to achieve this through its friendly dimensions, unintimidating design, and lightweight chassis.
Design and Styling
The Hunter follows a minimalist retro design ethos but with several contemporary touches. Styling elements like the stubby exhaust, compact bodywork, and tapered seat give it a nimble stance. The bike gets 17-inch wheels, a first for a modern Royal Enfield.
Dimensions and Ergonomics
With an 800mm seat height and low 181kg kerb weight, the Hunter 350 is quite petite and easy to manage. The riding position is natural and relaxed, with slightly rear-set pegs. The compact bike can fit shorter and taller riders well.
Engine and Transmission
Powering the Hunter is the same 349cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine as the Classic 350 and Meteor 350. It makes 20.2 hp and 27 Nm torque. The 5-speed gearbox is smooth, albeit with a heavy clutch operation.
| Power & Performance | |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 349.34 cc |
| Max Power | 20.2 bhp @ 6100 rpm |
| Max Torque | 27 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Mileage – ARAI | 36 kmpl |
| Mileage – Owner Reported | 35 kmpl |
| Riding Range | 455 Km |
| Top Speed | 114 Kmph |
| Transmission | 5 Speed Manual |
| Fuel System | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Delivery System | Fuel Injection |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 litres |
| Reserve Fuel Capacity | 2.6 litres |
Underpinnings and Chassis
The Hunter 350 features a brand-new chassis with tweaked geometry for nimble handling. This includes a shortened wheelbase, a steeper rake angle, and a revised rear section. The front suspension is telescopic while the rear gets twin shock absorbers.
Brakes, Wheels, and Tires
Stopping power comes from disc brakes on both ends, complemented by dual-channel ABS on the top variant. The Hunter runs on 17-inch alloy wheels shod with tubeless tires. The slim 110-section rear tire aids agility.
Features and Equipment
The Hunter offers basic features like a digital-analog instrument cluster, LED headlamp, and USB charging port. Navigation displays, hazard lamps, and tripper pods are optional. The Retro variant makes do with fewer frills to keep costs down.
Ride and Handling Impressions
The Hunter 350 impresses with its friendly demeanor and energetic handling. The light chassis and revised geometry work wonders here.
Nimble and Easy to Maneuver
With its combination of a short wheelbase, 17-inch wheels, and a well-weighted front end, the Hunter 350 is a breeze to flick around on tight roads. Its compact frame makes slicing through traffic quite effortless.
Comfortable Ergonomics
The relaxed riding triangle lets you spend hours in the saddle without inducing strain. There\’s ample space for taller riders despite the bike\’s diminutive proportions. The seat offers decent cushioning but the firmer rear suspension setup might get taxing.
Capable Chassis and Suspension
The Hunter displays little body roll and remains well-behaved when pushed through corners. The suspension provides a good balance of bump absorption and stability. Overall composure and confidence levels are high.
Strong Low-end Torque
The time-tested 350cc motor delivers its meaty torque from low in the rev range. This gives you a strong drive out of corners and makes light work of city commutes. Overtaking is fuss-free as well.
Not Meant for High Speeds
As enjoyable as the Hunter is around town, high-speed ventures reveal the limitations of the engine. Triple-digit cruising is sustainable but flat-out acceleration is slow due to the modest peak power.
Pros and Cons
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 shines in several areas but naturally, also has some downsides.
The Good Stuff
- Agile, engaging handling
- Accessible ergonomics and proportions
- Strong real-world performance
- Modern chassis and equipment
- Retro Roadster styling stands out
- Excellent pricing
Areas for Improvement
- Lackluster high-rev performance
- Stiff rear suspension setup
- Heavy clutch operation can be tiring
- Basic features on lower variants
- Limited customization options at launch
Conclusion
The Royal EnfHunter 350 manages to carve an identity separate from the Classic and Meteor with its nimble chassis and contemporary style. This is the most novice-friendly Royal Enfield yet but retains the brand\’s iconic character. Impressive pricing sweetens the deal further. The Hunter 350 succeeds as an enjoyable and stylish urban runabout for riders of varying experience levels.
FAQs
Q1: What is the power and torque output of the Hunter 350?
The 349cc single-cylinder engine makes 20.2 hp at 6100 rpm and 27 Nm torque between 4000-4500 rpm.
Q2: What features does the Hunter 350 get?
It gets a digital-analog speedometer, LED headlamp, hazard lamps, tripper navigation, and USB charging port on higher variants. Lower variants miss out on some features.
Q3: How much does the Hunter 350 weigh?
It has a kerb weight of 181 kg, which makes it 14 kg lighter than the Classic 350.
Q4: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Hunter 350?
It has a 13-liter fuel tank which returns a fuel efficiency of 36.2 kmpl on the highway as claimed by Royal Enfield.
Q5: Does the Hunter 350 get ABS?
Yes, dual-channel ABS is offered as standard on the Metro variant and single-channel ABS on the Retro variant.