The 350cc category of Royal Enfields isn’t just a collection of motorcycles. They are personalities on their own. Head-turners relying on iconic bassy exhaust thump. Rebellious companions carrying the brand's tagline proudly: "Made like a gun, goes like a bullet."
Most Indian riders have a story to tell, which begins with a Royal Enfield 350cc model. Be it the iconic "Bullet meri jaan" (bullet my life) or the youthful and sporty Hunter 350, these baby Royal Enfields keep purring without tearing your wallet apart.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is the most iconic one of the lot and hence, the best-selling machine in the brand’s portfolio. Despite increasing competition from brands like Triumph and Honda, the Classic 350 rides along in a league of its own. The Hunter 350, which is usually the second bestseller from RE's lineup, offers the 349cc engine in a slightly sprightly state of tune and a body that's eager to change directions. The Meteor 350 is suited for long-distance touring whereas the Goan Classic 350 celebrates the culture of bobbers in the country.
You see, these 350cc motorcycles are more than just machines. Each one is thoughtfully designed to cater to different riding styles. Let’s analyse them one by one:
The class of 350cc Royal Enfields
Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350
This bike is based on Royal Enfield’s most famous Classic 350 and is the first Bobber machine offered by the brand. The Goan Classic features the ape-style handlebar, which we have already seen since the first-generation Royal Enfield Thunderbird. The J-series single-cylinder 349cc engine powers the motorcycle, producing 20.2 bhp of maximum power and 27 nm of peak torque. While it uses a five-speed gearbox, the seat height of the Goan Classic goes low at 750mm despite having 170mm of ground clearance.
The low seat height makes this machine accessible to short-heighted riders who face difficulties managing the height of the Classic 350, which comes with an 805mm seat height. This motorcycle is not as fast as the Jawa 42 Bobber but it comes with premium build quality and eye-catching looks. The weight of the machine is 198 kg, which is almost similar to the Classic 350.
The starting ex-showroom price is INR 2,35,000.
Royal Enfield Classic 350
The Royal Enfield Classic is one of the most famous motorcycles in the world as we write. In fact, the Classic and Bullet represent the Royal Enfield company even today!
The Classic 350 is good for commuters and comes with an 805mm seat height that makes it accessible for short riders. The motorcycle is built to solve multi-purpose tasks like city rides, long rides and rough terrains. The machine is powered by the 349cc engine that produces the same 20.2 bhp power and 27 Nm peak torque as its bobber brother the Goan Classic 350. The ground clearance of the machine is 170mm, which is best for covering village half-baked roads.
The starting ex-showroom price of the Classic 350 is INR 1,99,500 only. If you are someone who needs a bike for comfortable rides, daily commuting and weekend touring, this one is for you.
Royal Enfield Bullet 350
The Bullet 350 carries the legacy of Royal Enfield. The Bullet is one of the most popular motorcycles, in India.
The seat height of the Bullet 350 is accessible for short riders at around 800mm. The Bullet 350 is a comparatively affordable version of the Classic 350, carrying the DNA of the Classic. In terms of power figures, the bike is the same as the Classic 350. It has the same 349cc engine producing the same 20.2 bhp maximum power and 27 Nm of peak torque.
The Bullet 350 serves the same purpose as the Classic 350 but in vintage style. So, if you want to own a vintage 350, you can pick this one over the Classic 350. However, watch out for vintage safety features like single-channel ABS with drum brakes! A safety concern for some riders.
The starting ex-showroom price of the machine is INR 1,75,000.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
The Meteor 350 is the modern version of the Royal Enfield Thunderbird, which was itself a refined version of the Royal Enfield Lightning. The Meteor 350 is a dedicated machine for long tourers.
The Meteor 350 and the Meteor 650 are both cruisers made for long rides. The main difference between the Classic and the Meteor is the sitting position. The Meteor 350 comes with modern features like the Tripper navigation system to check Google Maps. The motorcycle is powered by a 349cc engine that produces 20.2 bhp power and 27 Nm peak torque. The seat height is 765mm, with a 1,400mm long wheelbase and 170mm ground clearance.
Any short rider can handle this motorcycle easily if they can manage the 191 kg weight of the machine. The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 comes with a starting price of INR 2,04,000.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is the most affordable machine in the Royal Enfield lineup. Despite its budget-friendly price, the Hunter comes equipped with an uncompromised 349cc engine. This motorcycle produces 20.2 bhp maximum power and 27 Nm of peak torque but its 181 kg kerb weight gives it a performance edge, making it faster than other 350cc Royal Enfield models.
The Hunter is particularly popular among female riders due to its accessible 790mm seat height and lightweight build. Its compact design, high torque and manageable weight make it an excellent choice for navigating city traffic with ease.
The starting price of this motorcycle is INR 1,49,900, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable yet stylish and powerful ride.