Royal Enfield has been a name synonymous with timeless design, thumping engines, and a unique riding experience. In recent years, the brand has expanded its lineup to cater to a wide variety of riders — from those who crave vintage charm to those who prefer a sportier, city-friendly machine. Two of the most popular models in the current lineup are the Hunter 350 and the Classic 350.
While both share Royal Enfield’s new J-series platform, they’re aimed at very different types of riders. So, if you’re trying to decide between the two, this detailed comparison will help you figure out which one fits your style, personality, and riding needs.
A Quick Overview of Both Motorcycles
Before diving into details, let’s take a quick look at what each bike offers.
Hunter 350
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is Royal Enfield’s most agile and urban-friendly motorcycle to date. With its retro-modern styling, lighter frame, and slightly sportier ergonomics, it’s built for riders who want the Royal Enfield feel but with a more nimble, everyday-friendly package.
Key highlights of the Hunter 350:
- Modern-retro design with shorter wheelbase
- Sportier handling and lighter weight
- Great for city commutes and short weekend rides
- Attractive pricing compared to other Royal Enfield models
Classic 350
The Classic 350 is the modern version of Royal Enfield’s legendary best-seller. It retains its vintage looks but comes with the updated J-series engine for smoother performance. It’s for those who love relaxed cruising, traditional styling, and the timeless thump.
Key highlights of the Classic 350:
- Timeless, vintage-inspired design
- Comfortable upright seating
- Smooth J-series engine tuned for relaxed riding
- Ideal for long highway trips and leisurely rides
Design & Styling – Modern Cool vs Timeless Charm
When it comes to looks, the Hunter 350 and Classic 350 are worlds apart, even though they share a similar DNA.
- Hunter 350: Compact, minimalistic, and youthful. It has a slightly aggressive stance, shorter fenders, and a modern touch while still keeping a retro vibe. It comes in funky colour options and graphics, appealing to younger riders or those who want a fresh look.
- Classic 350: Full of old-school charm with teardrop fuel tank, chrome details, and traditional round headlamp. Its design is more stately, making it perfect for riders who prefer that nostalgic Royal Enfield aura.
Verdict:
Choose the Hunter 350 if you want a sportier, modern aesthetic. Go for the Classic 350 if you love vintage elegance.
Comfort & Riding Position
Comfort is a big factor in choosing between these two.
- Hunter 350: More compact seating and slightly rear-set footpegs give it a sportier riding triangle. It’s comfortable for city rides but might feel a bit cramped for taller riders on long tours.
- Classic 350: Upright seating, wide handlebars, and plush seat make it ideal for long hours in the saddle. It’s the go-to choice for highway comfort and relaxed touring.
Verdict:
For daily commuting and short bursts of fun, Hunter 350 works well. For cross-country cruising, Classic 350 wins.
Engine & Performance – Same Heart, Different Character
Both motorcycles use the same 349cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled J-series engine, producing around 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. But the way the power is delivered is different.
- Hunter 350: Feels quicker off the line due to its lighter weight and shorter gearing. Great for weaving through traffic and spirited city rides.
- Classic 350: Offers smoother, more linear power delivery. It’s tuned for steady cruising rather than quick sprints.
Verdict:
If you like zippy city performance, go for Hunter 350. If you prefer relaxed, long-distance riding, the Classic 350 is your companion.
Handling & Ride Quality
- Hunter 350: Shorter wheelbase and lighter frame make it more agile. It’s easier to handle in tight spaces, parking, and quick turns. Suspension is slightly firmer for sportier handling.
- Classic 350: Longer wheelbase and heavier build give it stability at higher speeds. Suspension is softer, soaking up bumps better on longer rides.
Verdict:
City-focused riders will enjoy the Hunter 350’s agility. Touring enthusiasts will appreciate the Classic 350’s stability and comfort.
Fuel Efficiency
In terms of mileage, both perform similarly because they share the same engine. Expect around 35–40 km/l depending on riding style and conditions.
However:
- Hunter 350 may give slightly better mileage in city use due to lighter weight.
- Classic 350 is more fuel-efficient on highways thanks to its relaxed cruising nature.
Price & Value
As of 2025:
- Hunter 350 starts at a lower price point, making it an attractive entry into the Royal Enfield family.
- Classic 350 costs more due to its premium features, larger bodywork, and heritage value.
If the budget is tight, the Hunter 350 offers more bang for your buck without losing the RE feel.
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick decision guide:
Choose the Hunter 350 if:
- You mostly ride in the city
- You want a lighter, more nimble motorcycle
- You prefer modern-retro styling
- Budget is a concern, but you still want a Royal Enfield
Choose the Classic 350 if:
- You love vintage styling and heritage appeal
- You do a lot of long-distance rides
- You prioritise comfort over sporty handling
- You want the traditional Royal Enfield road presence
Final Thoughts
The Hunter 350 and Classic 350 might share the same engine, but they cater to completely different rider personalities. The Hunter 350 is youthful, agile, and perfect for city riding. The Classic 350 is timeless, comfortable, and made for relaxed highway cruising.
No matter which one you choose, you’re getting Royal Enfield’s signature build quality, thumping performance, and a bike that turns heads wherever it goes. It all comes down to your riding style — do you want the quick, nimble fun of the Hunter 350 or the relaxed, majestic ride of the Classic 350?
