Royal Enfield Hunter 350: A Comprehensive Review and Alternative Suggestions

The Royal Enfield Hunter 350: A Perfectly Suitable Urban Companion

If you are on the lookout for a reliable and comfortable motorcycle, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 should be high on your list. This bike excels in certain areas, such as maneuverability and highway riding. However, it falls short in others, like high-speed performance and aggressive cornering. Here, we delve into the strengths and weaknesses of the Hunter 350, along with some noteworthy alternatives to consider.

Key Features of the Royal Enfield Hunter 350

The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a remarkable bike for those who prioritize ease of use and comfort, especially in urban settings. With its quick-turning capabilities and solid handling in small areas, the Hunter 350 provides a convenient ride experience. Its riding comfort, particularly on highways and in hilly areas, is commendable, thanks to its well-engineered design.

Strong Point 1: Maneuverability and Riding Comfort

The Hunter 350 can effortlessly take on tight spaces, making it a versatile choice for city dwellers. Additionally, its suspension and comfort-focused design ensure a smooth ride, even at higher speeds. This makes it a preferred choice for those who want a bike that can handle a variety of terrains and traffic conditions.

Strong Point 2: braking ability

The bike is equipped with a good Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which enhances safety during sudden stops. This feature is crucial for riders who expect to navigate urban areas and less predictable traffic conditions.

Considerations and Limitations

While the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 excels in certain aspects, it is not designed for high-speed riding or extreme cornering, which might not be the best fit for experienced or adrenaline-seeking riders. Here are some additional points to consider:

Weak Point 1: Speed Limitations

The maximum speed of the Hunter 350 is around 110–115 kmph under optimal road conditions. This limitation may not meet the expectations of riders who love to hit the open road at higher speeds or enjoy aggressive cornering. For those seeking more thrilling experiences, you might want to explore more powerful motorcycles like Triumph’s T400 or even the Speed 400.

Weak Point 2: Engine Heat Issue

The motorcycle is not immune to engine heat issues, which can be uncomfortable, especially when the bike is stationary. While it does not affect rideability, the heat can be a minor inconvenience, particularly during prolonged periods of idling.

Despite these limitations, many Royal Enfield enthusiasts would recommend the Hunter 350 if you are a die-hard Royal Enfield fan and are willing to compromise on speed in favor of comfort and style.

Alternatives and Recommendations

While the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a solid choice, there are numerous alternatives in the 300-400cc segment that you might want to explore. Here are some noteworthy options:

Triumph T400 and Speed 400

Triumph’s T400 and Speed 400 are excellent alternatives if you are looking for a bike that can cater to both comfort and performance. The Triumph Speed 400, in particular, is more aggressive and performance-oriented, offering a more thrilling riding experience at higher speeds. For those seeking balance between comfort and performance, the Triumph T400 is a great option.

Further Alternatives

There are several other bikes in the 300-400cc range that you might want to evaluate, such as the Honda CB 350, the Royal Enfield Guerilla 450, and bikes like the Duke 250, Karizma XMR, Maverick 440, Dominar 400, NS400, and Jawa FJ42. It’s highly recommended that you test ride these bikes to get a feel for their handling and performance.

Reliability and Customer Support

While Royal Enfield offers a vast service network, some users report issues with the reliability of their bikes. Customer service can sometimes be unresponsive, leading to multiple trips to the service center. This might not be ideal for riders who prefer a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Before making a purchase, it is essential to weigh these factors against your personal preferences and riding needs. It’s better to invest in a more reliable engine bike, even if it means spending a little more, to ensure a smoother ownership experience.

Conclusion

For riders seeking a reliable, comfortable, and maneuverable bike in the 300-400cc segment, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a solid choice. However, if your primary goal is high-speed riding and aggressive cornering, you might want to consider alternatives like the Triumph Speed 400 or the Duke 250.

Ultimately, the best bicycle is the one that aligns with your needs and preferences. Whether you decide to go with the Hunter 350 or explore other options, make sure to spend some time testing different bikes to find the perfect fit.