Royal Enfield is a name synonymous with heritage, style, and powerful motorcycles. Among its stellar lineup, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and Royal Enfield Meteor 350 have emerged as popular choices for riders seeking a blend of performance and style. But which one is better when you consider all aspects? This article dives into a detailed comparison of these two bikes to help you make the best choice.
Engine and Performance
Both the Hunter 350 and Meteor 350 share the same 349cc, single-cylinder, air-oil-cooled engine from Royal Enfield’s J-Series platform. However, slight tuning differences make them cater to distinct rider preferences.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- Power: 20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm
- Torque: 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
- Top Speed: Approximately 114 km/h
- Riding Experience: Offers a more nimble and sporty ride, thanks to its lightweight frame and agile handling.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
- Power: 20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm
- Torque: 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
- Top Speed: Approximately 120 km/h
- Riding Experience: Delivers a comfortable cruising experience, perfect for long highway rides.
Verdict: If you’re looking for agility and city-friendly performance, the Hunter 350 takes the lead. For highway cruising, the Meteor 350 shines.
Design and Styling
Both bikes cater to different aesthetics, appealing to a wide range of riders.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- Design: Retro-modern styling with a street-focused appeal.
- Key Features: Round headlamp, minimalistic tank design, compact structure.
- Colors: Available in vibrant and youthful dual-tone color schemes like Rebel Black, Rebel Blue, and Rebel Red, along with understated tones such as Dapper White, Dapper Grey, and Dapper Ash.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
- Design: Classic cruiser styling with a relaxed stance.
- Key Features: Large fuel tank, comfortable seat, and extended handlebars.
- Colors: Premium single-tone and dual-tone shades such as Supernova Brown, Stellar Blue, Stellar Red, and Fireball Yellow.
Verdict: Choose the Hunter 350 for a sporty urban look and the Meteor 350 for a more traditional cruiser vibe.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- Seat Height: 800 mm
- Riding Position: Upright yet sporty.
- Comfort Level: Suited for shorter city rides.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
- Seat Height: 765 mm
- Riding Position: Relaxed cruiser stance.
- Comfort Level: Perfect for long-distance touring.
Verdict: The Meteor 350 wins for touring comfort, while the Hunter 350 is better for quick city commutes.
Engine Variants
While both bikes share the same engine platform, their tuning and ride dynamics offer unique experiences.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- Engine Type: 349cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled, SOHC.
- Performance Focus: Tuned for quick acceleration and responsive handling.
- Ideal Use: Best suited for urban commutes and occasional highway rides.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
- Engine Type: 349cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled, SOHC.
- Performance Focus: Optimized for consistent cruising and comfort over long distances.
- Ideal Use: Perfect for touring enthusiasts and relaxed highway cruising.
Verdict: Both bikes perform exceptionally well, but their tuning aligns with their target use cases—city rides for the Hunter and long rides for the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is best.
Features and Technology
Both bikes are equipped with modern features while maintaining the retro charm of Royal Enfield motorcycles.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- Instrument Cluster: Semi-digital with tripper navigation available as an add-on.
- Lighting: Halogen headlamp with LED tail lamp.
- Braking: Dual-channel ABS.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
- Instrument Cluster: Dual-pod setup with tripper navigation included.
- Lighting: Halogen headlamp with LED tail lamp.
- Braking: Dual-channel ABS.
Verdict: The Meteor 350 edges out slightly with its included tripper navigation, but the Hunter 350 offers a sporty, tech-savvy package.
Mileage
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- Mileage: Around 36-38 km/l.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
- Mileage: Around 37-39 km/l.
Verdict: Both bikes offer comparable fuel efficiency, making mileage a non-decisive factor.
Pricing
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- Ex-showroom Price of Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Starts at ₹1.50 lakh.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
- Ex-showroom Price of Royal Enfield Meteor 350 starts at ₹1.96 lakh.
Verdict: The Hunter 350 is the more affordable option, making it a better choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Conclusion: Which Bike Should You Choose?
- Choose the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 if you’re looking for a sporty, urban-friendly bike with a lower price tag.
- Choose the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 if you prefer a relaxed cruiser with premium features and long-distance comfort.
Both bikes cater to different riding styles, so your choice depends on your needs and preferences. Visit your nearest Royal Enfield dealership for a test ride to experience the difference firsthand.
Conclusion: Which Bike Should You Choose?
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and Royal Enfield Meteor 350 are based on your riding style and preferences.
- Hunter 350: If you prefer a sporty, agile motorcycle that is well-suited for urban commutes, the Hunter 350 is your best bet. It also comes at a more affordable price, making it an excellent value for those on a budget.
- Meteor 350: If you’re a touring enthusiast who loves long highway rides, the Meteor 350 is the perfect companion. Its cruiser styling and comfortable ergonomics are designed for relaxed, extended journeys.
Royal Enfield’s bikes are renowned for their quality and performance, offering unique experiences for their riders. To fully appreciate the difference, it’s recommended to visit a Royal Enfield dealership for a test ride.