The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has been a runaway success since its debut, quickly becoming the second-best-selling model in Royal Enfield’s lineup after the iconic Classic 350. Known for its retro charm, manageable size, and agile performance, the Hunter 350 is a favourite among urban riders. However, one consistent complaint has been its stiff ride quality, especially on India’s rough roads. Now, Royal Enfield appears to be addressing this concern with an updated model, aiming to offer a more comfortable experience without compromising its core appeal.
Key Updates: Progressive Springs for Better Ride Quality
The biggest change in the updated Hunter 350 is the introduction of progressive rear shock absorbers. The previous version used linear springs, which contributed to the stiff ride, especially over bumps and potholes. The switch to progressive springs indicates that Royal Enfield is actively trying to smooth out the ride, potentially making it more comfortable for everyday use. Progressive springs compress gradually, allowing for better shock absorption and reducing the harshness felt on uneven surfaces.
This update is crucial for Indian riders, who often face poor road conditions. Although the overall suspension travel (102mm at the rear) and the seat height (790mm) might see some changes as the progressive springs need longer travel. This increase in travel would also result in increased seat height making it a little bit less user friendly for shorter riders. However, the improved springs should make the Hunter 350 more forgiving on rough terrain.
LED Headlights for Enhanced Visibility
Another notable change is the addition of an LED headlight, which aligns the Hunter 350 with the rest of Royal Enfield’s lineup. This headlight, seen on other models like the Meteor and Himalayan, offers better visibility during night rides and gives the bike a modern touch without losing its classic design.
Core Features to Remain Unchanged
Despite these updates, the core components of the Hunter 350 remain largely unchanged. It continues to be powered by the reliable 349cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, delivering 20.2 hp and 27 Nm of torque. The 5-speed gearbox offers smooth transitions, making it an ideal choice for city commutes and weekend getaways. The Hunter’s light and nimble build (181kg kerb weight) ensures it stays agile and easy to handle, even for newer riders.
Price and Variants
The price range for the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 starts at Rs 1.50 lakh for the base Factory Black model, which comes with wire-spoke wheels and a drum rear brake. The more premium Metro variants cost around Rs 1.70-1.75 lakh, depending on the colour and features chosen.
