I wanted to go over what to consider if you think the new Royal Enfield Hunter 350 may be the motorcycle for you, particularly as a new or beginner rider looking for their first machine.
The Hunter 350 joins the Classic 350 and the Meteor 350 in the Royal Enfield range and is also coincidentally also the most affordable of the options. The Himalayan and Scram ran a slightly larger capacity engine by comparison for a modest performance, with each bike offering something a little different. Both these families of bikes are not focusing on power though.
The Hunter 350 is a new roadster, a road-orientated commuter essentially, with 17 inch wheels, a taller seat height, updated frame, wider tyres and revised gearing for a bit more punch, while fifth or top gear is an overdrive.
That saves a little weight, changes where the torque is noticeable, while giving the bike a bit of a different handling characteristic and seating position.
As a new rider, you’re most likely to notice the styling differences, or the look of the bike. If you want something a little more old-school cruiser styled go the Classic 350, if you want a more modernised cruiser along the same vein, the Meteor 350.
A nakedbike is kind of the middle-point in bike styles or types, not as sporty as a racer or faired sportsbike, not quite as relaxed as a cruiser.
If you’re not really sure what you want, this isn’t a bad place to start, although if you’re picking between the 350s as a new rider, sit on them all and figure out which one feels right and of course looks good to you.
So to line up the pros and cons.
The Hunter 350 is competitively priced for a neo-retro, both stylish and well finished, while suspension and brakes are solid. You get a more authentic old-school feel without the downsides of an old bike.
Comfort and ergos should work for the majority of riders. Performance for urban conditions is again solid, while new riders should have an easy time.
The cons…
Lighting isn’t full LED, ..
