Royal Enfield Hunter 350

The 2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is the third motorcycle from the 350c J-series and joins the likes of Classic and Meteor. It adds a unique roadster dynamic to the range. The bike looks great in person. It has a distinctive street bike-roadster style, compared to the more easy going touring-styled Classic and Meteor. But the Hunter 350 still manages to retain a neo-retro look that has been a key design trait of Royal Enfield. The halogen headlamp, fork gaiters, a new-design tank, flattish seat, the short, slightly upswept exhaust all come together to forge the minimalistic yet cool new-retro look. The finishing isn't the best though with a lot of hard plastics used. The 2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 certainly looks great. The 17-inch spoke wheels, narrower treads, the switchgear that's borrowed from older Royal Enfield models, the different-styled information display, turn indicators, flat seat and grabrail, all form a very cohesive design. The taillight is bulb-type instead of LED.

The tweaks on the chassis of the 2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 are much different and the seating position is more aggressive and upright than the Classic or the Meteor. The Hunter 350 has a seat height of 31.5 inches, similar than the Classic 350. The revised ergonomics on the Hunter 350 transfers a little bit of the rider's bodyweight to the palm. But it' otherwise a comfortable riding stance because the rider is completely committed to his/her riding position. The new-design fuel tank allows sufficient room to adjust the legs and negotiate corners. This is something unique for the Hunter 350. The suspension setup is nicely damped and the absorbs most of the bumps and thuds.

The 2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is equipped with a single-cylinder, air-cooled, 350cc engine that produces 20 PS/27 Nm. The motor is mated to a five-speed transmission. The bike offers impressive handling that's largely because of the 17-inch wheels and 3.1kg un-sprung mass. The low centre of gravity, aggressive chassis geometry, and the stiffer frame-down tubes all come together to ensure an easy and responsive ride. The foot pegs are set a bit higher than the Classic or Meteor. The 2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is more of a touring-cruiser than a sport bike but still manages to offer a nippy ride. During an aggressive ride, the pegs touch early and the ride becomes softer but a bit harsh at the back. The bike not only allows a pillion rider but can also carry heavy luggage or a second pillion. The rearview mirrors vibrate a lot during aggressive revving.

During city or urban riding, 2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 offers great traction. But the front disc brake is a late responder during braking at a distance. While both brakes have a strong bite, the antilock-equipped 300mm disc and ByBre twin-piston calliper doesn't provide much progression of beyond the first squeeze. The tires have good grip and ensure great traction.

At a starting price of ₱231,000, the 2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a worthy bike in its segment. It keeps things simple. It's among the most affordable bikes in its class but never compromises on the ride quality. It's a very able companion for cruising. The seat is flat and comfortable, and reduces fatigue during long trips. The bike also has low maintenance costs.