Royal Enfield Hunter 350

autocar.india

•6d

Both the TVS Ronin and Royal Enfield Hunter 350 are excellent choices that are similarly capable in this price range, but both have different riding experiences. The Ronin feels lighter on its feet because it weighs quite a bit less than the Hunter, and while its styling is that of a relaxed retro, it actually has very nice handling. Its engine is also quick to spool up and makes a deep, bassy sound with a strong surge of mid-range torque to boot. On the other hand, the Hunter's long-stroke motor is more mellow and, in our opinion, more characterful too. The riding experience is dominated by the strong low- and mid-range torque here, and it's a pleasure to short-shift on the Hunter and listen to its thumpy beat of an exhaust note. While the Hunter is much heavier than the Ronin, you don't really feel it when you're on the move and darting through city trafic is a breeze on this RE. Take test rides of both, see which one tickles your fancy and then make your decision.

autocar.india

•1w

Despite what has transpired since we compared the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 to the Triumph Speed T4 (then using a 398cc engine, now using a 349cc engine), the verdict doesn't really change. The T4 remains the more capable machine from the more premium brand, and even though the price delta between the two has widened, we still believe the T4 remains the superior product.However, if you are looking for a modern retro motorcycle on a strict budget, the Royal Enfield bike is still a very strong option.

autocar.india

•4w

For your location and usage, we'd recommend choosing between the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and Honda CB350 models. The Hunter is more affordable, more compact and quite comfortable. It is also a very popular bike which sells by the bucketload every month and given how many are on the road today, you're likely to have a pleasant ownership experience without teething troubles.Meanwhile, the Honda CB350 models are larger machines in terms of their bodywork and spacious ergonomics but are almost on par with the Hunter when it comes to weight. The H'ness and RS, in particular, also have a more standout design and if you want a bike that's not very common, one of these is a good buy. Finally, the 350cc Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is a completely different ballgame to these air-cooled 350s and will offer much superior performance and handling but will be a little compromised on the comfort front in comparison. To make an informed decision, take a test ride of all three before you go ahead with your purchase.

autocar.india

•6w

Since you've mentioned your usage is quite low, and you liked the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 on your test ride, you should strongly consider it. The Hunter's low seat height and manageable weight will make it easy to use in city conditions, and it is a comfortable, reliable and fuss-free machine. If you ride sensibly, you will also see decent fuel economy, and the latest-gen Hunter has very pliant suspension, ensuring a comfortable ride over bad roads. Another option we'd recommend - and this is purely because you've mentioned this will be a "lifestyle purchase" - is the Goan Classic 350. The Goan attracts glances like nothing else at this price point, owing to its unique design and striking colours, and since it is based on a tried and tested platform, realistically, there should be no surprises in your prospective ownership. The one downside here is that the Goan is not as comfortable as the Hunter, mainly owing to its seating position.Take a test ride of the Goan to see if you resonate with the experience it has to offer before you make your decision.

autocar.india

•7w

Since this is going to be your first bike, should you want to play it safe, going with the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 will be our recommendation. It has a low seat, unintimidating power delivery, plush suspension and is easy to manage in the city. You also have an affinity to the brand so going with the characterful Hunter should be quite satisfying in the long run. However, on the flip side, since you have said you can extend your budget to Rs 2.75 lakh, you should definitely consider the 350cc Triumph Speed 400. The Speed is definitely a more capable and exciting machine than the Hunter and over time, will give you more headroom to grow as a rider. Do bear in mind that the Speed doesn't have as much character as the Hunter and feels more like an appliance in the long run - although depending on what your approach towards your motorcycle is, that may or may not be a bad thing. The best way to decide between these two would be to take a test ride before you make your decision. If you want to split the difference between the Hunter and Speed 400, the Speed T4 is an excellent option with middle-of-the-road performance between these two bikes.