The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is the newest member of Royal Enfield’s 350 cc family. Based on the J-Series 350 cc engine, which is shared with the Royal Enfield Meteor 350, as well as the Classic 350, the Hunter 350 though has its task cut out to appeal to a wider audience, including riders who may not be traditionally attracted to the Royal Enfield brand. We’ve ridden the new Hunter 350 in and around Bangkok, and you can read all about our first ride impressions here. In case you’re considering the Hunter 350, here’s a look at its pros and cons, which should help you make up your mind if you’re considering purchasing the new RE Hunter 350.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Review
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a roadster, but the overall design certainly has retro influences. The overall stance is sporty and its size is more compact than Royal Enfield’s other 350 cc motorcycles. The Hunter 350’s wheelbase is 20 mm shorter than the Classic 350, and with its 181 kg kerb weight, the Hunter 350 is a full 14 kg lighter than the Royal Enfield Classic 350.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Variants, Trims Explained
The Hunter 350 still has an upright riding position, but it’s slightly sportier than both the Classic 350 and the Meteor 350. The footpegs have been pushed back 100 mm, compared to the Classic 350, and it has a seat height of 790 mm. It has a slightly more engaging riding position, more aggressive than the rather laidback ergonomics of the other 350 cc Royal Enfield bikes. Also Read: All You Need To Know About The Royal Enfield Hunter 350
Owing to its light weight, as well as its sharper steering geometry, thanks to the 17-inch wheels, the Hunter 350 is possibly one of the most agile and light motorcycles in the RE family. It’s quick to turn, and is well-balanced and agile. Also Read: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Price Comparison
The 350 cc, single-cylinder, single overhead cam engine has a strong low and mid-range, and the Hunter 350 is best enjoyed riding the wave of torque. The engine doesn’t require frequent downshifts and the character is somewhat relaxed, and laid-back; not intimidating for new riders, and has a relaxed, lazy vibe. Also Read: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Vs Rivals Specifications Comparison
The two-valve engine is happiest cruising at between 70-80 kmph, and it’s responsive in the mid-range. In overall top speed, it will sit at 110-115 kmph, but there’s some buzz which you do feel on the seat, the footpegs and on the fuel tank beyond 90 kmph. There are no alarming vibrations, but you do feel some buzz at speeds beyond 90 kmph. Also Read: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Accessories Pack Explained
The chassis is all-new, but the front part of the dual-downtube frame is shared with the Classic 350 and Meteor 350. The engine is still a stressed member of the frame. Where the Classic 350 has a bolt on dual-cradle frame which extends below the crankcase to the rider footpeg mounts, the Hunter 350 loses the double-cradle tubes, which has led to significant weight loss. The rear subframe is completely new and has been re-designed to accommodate the new bodywork. Also Read: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Launched; Prices Begin At Rs. 1.50 Lakh
The Hunter 350’s suspension does feel a little stiffer, compared to the Classic 350. Over the off speedbreaker, it’s not bone jarringly uncomfortable, and the bike remains planted. Overall ride quality is firm, compared to its siblings, but it’s not uncomfortable, and offers a sense of stability that complements its light weight and agility.
The top-spec Metro variant of the Hunter 350 comes with a slightly wider rear tyre, and with cast alloy wheels shod with tubeless tyres. The Ceat Zoom XL tyres offer more than enough grip in everyday riding conditions, even when leaned over, and the alloy wheel variant also comes with standard dual-channel ABS. Under hard braking, you do feel the ABS kicking in, particularly on the rear wheel. Front brakes are adequate, but require a decent squeeze on the lever; a little more bite and progression would have been certainly welcome.