Royal Enfield Hunter 350: The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has been making waves in the motorcycle world since its release. Today, we’re diving into a comprehensive review based on one rider’s 18-month experience with this compact cruiser. From the purchase process to long-term impressions, this article will give you an in-depth look at what it’s like to own and ride the Hunter 350.
The Purchase Experience
Our reviewer, Ritwik, began his journey with the Hunter 350 in September 2022. He booked the bike through the Royal Enfield app, paying a refundable deposit of ₹5000. The process was smooth and efficient, with the dealership promising delivery within two months. True to their word, Ritwik received his Dapper Grey Hunter 350 on October 24, 2022, just 1.5 months after booking.
First Impressions: Love at First Ride
Like many new bike owners, Ritwik was instantly smitten with his Hunter 350. He describes feeling “like a child with a new toy,” constantly thinking about the bike and taking photos wherever he parked it. This initial excitement speaks volumes about the Hunter’s appeal.
The Positives
1. Lightweight Champion: The Hunter 350 is the lightest in the Royal Enfield lineup, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
2. Smooth and Peppy: The J platform 350cc engine, combined with the bike’s light build, offers a smooth and enjoyable ride, especially in city traffic.
3. Torque for Days: Royal Enfield’s signature low-range torque shines in the Hunter, making it easy to navigate through busy streets.
4. Melodious Exhaust: The stock exhaust note is both loud and pleasing, potentially saving owners from feeling the need for customization.
Early Challenges
1. Pillion Comfort: The rear seat doesn’t provide much support against the bike’s torque, according to Ritwik’s passengers.
2. Lighting Issues: The factory-fitted halogen headlamps, while decent, struggle against high beams from other vehicles with aftermarket lights.
3. Clutch Control: The clutch lever is notably hard to pull, which might be challenging for riders with smaller hands.
The Long Haul: 7000 km and Beyond
After covering 7000 km in 10 months, the Hunter 350 became Ritwik’s primary mode of transport. It proved reliable for both daily commutes and joyrides. However, this extended use also revealed some additional insights:
Braking Concerns
The stock Royal Enfield brake pads wore out quickly and lacked initial bite. Combined with an early-engaging Anti-lock Braking System, this could lead to potentially dangerous situations. Ritwik’s solution was to upgrade to ceramic brake pads, specifically Vesrah ceramic pads for the front brakes. This upgrade significantly improved braking performance and rider confidence.
Gearshift Quirks
Post the first service, Ritwik occasionally experienced missed gear shifts. While this didn’t lead to stalling thanks to the engine’s torque, it did cause some mental stress for the rider.
Service and Parts
Ritwik encountered some issues with Royal Enfield’s service centers. There were delays in procuring parts, and he faced alignment problems after servicing. While these issues were resolved, they suggest room for improvement in Royal Enfield’s after-sales service.
Also Read:
Yamaha Rx 100 launched once again to create a stir in the market, will get more features than before
Durability Concerns
As a new rider, Ritwik experienced a few drops. He noticed that the gear shifter and rear brake levers tend to bend inwards when the bike falls, rendering them unusable. Fortunately, these can be fixed with a simple tool, but it’s something new Hunter owners should be aware of.
Fuel Matters
On a friend’s recommendation, Ritwik switched to using XP95 (95 octane) fuel instead of standard petrol. He noticed a significant improvement in both performance and mileage, making the switch a permanent choice for him.
The Verdict
After 18 months of ownership, Ritwik describes the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 as a “decently capable, fun to ride, mildly comfortable and easy to handle and maintain compact city cruiser.” He feels the bike lives up to its tagline: “A SHOT OF MOTORCYCLING.”
Also Read:
2025 KTM 250 Duke Launched At ₹2.41 Lakh
The Hunter 350 shines as an urban commuter, offering the classic Royal Enfield experience in a more manageable package. Its lightweight design and responsive engine make it ideal for navigating city streets, while still providing enough power and character for enjoyable weekend rides.
However, potential buyers should be aware of a few considerations:
1. The stock brakes may need upgrades for optimal performance.
2. Pillion comfort might be an issue for frequent two-up riding.
3. Royal Enfield’s after-sales service may vary in quality.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Ritwik’s experience suggests that the Hunter 350 is a solid choice for both new riders and Royal Enfield enthusiasts looking for a more nimble option. Its blend of classic styling, modern performance, and city-friendly design make it a compelling option in the 350cc segment.
Conclusion
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 emerges as a charismatic and capable motorcycle that successfully brings the Royal Enfield experience to a wider audience. While it’s not without its quirks, the overall package offers an engaging riding experience that seems to improve with time and a few thoughtful upgrades.
For those considering the Hunter 350, Ritwik’s journey provides valuable insights into what to expect – from the initial thrill of ownership to the long-term satisfaction of riding a bike that truly captures the essence of motorcycling. As with any vehicle, personal experience may vary, but the Hunter 350 appears to be a worthy addition to the Royal Enfield lineup, especially for urban riders and those new to the world of motorcycling.
