A more modern, nontraditional take on the same 350 platform that is used with the Classic and Meteor 350, the Hunter 350 has the sound, feel, and character you expect from a Royal Enfield single, but with a lighter, more nimble chassis design that feels more advanced and refined than the Classic or the Meteor. Besides the styling that revolves more around contemporary roadsters, the Hunter features subtle changes to steering geometry that result in a more dynamic-feeling motorcycle. A steeper rake and shorter trail contribute to a shorter wheelbase than the previous 350 models, and 17-inch cast aluminum wheels front and rear help with quick steering while also allowing the Hunter access to some of the best aftermarket on-road rubber available. The Hunter is 21 pounds lighter than the Meteor and 30 pounds lighter than the Classic, but that feeling of weight reduction is amplified by the chassis changes.
Although the SOHC air/oil-cooled two-valve 349cc single-cylinder is identical from Meteor to Classic to Hunter, the Hunter has been given a new throttle map to sharpen engine response at the initial opening. Fueling feels slightly more aggressive off the line, but overall character is very similar to the other Royal Enfield 350 engines. The nonadjustable 41mm fork was developed just for the Hunter and is firmer than the Classic and Meteor; the stiffer suspension is well tuned for urban square-edged bumps, potholes, or joints in the pavement, with the imperfections being felt, but not to the point of being shocking or painful. Feel and feedback from the ByBre two-piston caliper and 300mm disc up front is surprisingly good considering the budget-minded components. Rear brake performance was just as impressive, though the brakes need big inputs to get a strong reaction.
The 2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is available in six paint styles. The Dapper White, Dapper Grey, and Dapper Ash retail for $3,999; the Rebel Black, Rebel Blue, or Rebel Red list at $4,199,
