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The Royal Enfield Hunter 350: A Perfect Fit for Urban Living
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has proven itself to be an ideal companion for navigating the bustling streets of a major city like Chicago. Having spent nearly two decades exploring the city on various modes of transport, from motorcycles and scooters to bicycles, I’ve developed a strong sense of what works in urban environments and what doesn’t. My early years were dominated by public transportation and walking, which shaped my perspective on mobility. Over time, as I’ve tried more vehicles, my understanding of how different modes of transport perform in challenging conditions has deepened.
While cars offer the comfort of air conditioning during hot summers and heating in the winter, buses and trains can sometimes fall short. Even in Chicago, where lane splitting and filtering aren’t legal, I still prefer being on a motorcycle. Though some bikes are better suited for city life than others, the Hunter 350 stands out for its practicality and charm.
A few years ago, when I shared my plan to ride a Royal Enfield Hunter 350 through Bangkok at night, many people reacted with concern. “Aren’t you scared?” they asked. “Traffic is crazy over there, will you be safe?” These questions were understandable, especially since I had only experienced the city’s streets in a car before. However, once I took the bike out, I realized that riding in a major city requires instincts that translate well across different locations.
Every city has its unique character, but there are also commonalities that make them similar in terms of traffic patterns and movement. In Bangkok, the Hunter 350 performed exceptionally well, weaving through dense traffic with ease. It felt natural to navigate the streets, and I noticed that drivers around me were less aggressive than expected. While this might not be universally true, it was a positive experience for me.
This led me to wonder how the Hunter 350 would fare in Chicago. I was eager to take it back to the city, recreate my daily commute, and explore the area. Now, I finally have the chance to do just that.
Practicality and Performance in the City
At the time of writing, the base model of the Hunter 350 in Rebel Red costs $4,199. This price is comparable to a new Honda Dax 125 and cheaper than a new Honda Monkey. While I appreciate small Hondas, the Hunter 350 offers greater versatility for everyday use. It may not be the fastest bike, but it’s capable and characterful if used appropriately. Its agile handling and compact size make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and park with ease.
The Hunter 350 is suitable for highway travel, though it’s not designed for long-distance interstate rides. You could manage it, but it wouldn’t be the most comfortable option. For daily commuting, it’s a solid choice, especially considering the current economic climate. The Hunter 350 offers great value for money, making it an attractive option for urban riders.
Features That Enhance the Experience
One of the standout features of the Hunter 350 is its fuel efficiency. During my testing, I achieved over 81 miles per gallon, which is impressive for a 350cc motorcycle. The bike is equipped with a counterbalanced crankshaft, which helps reduce vibrations and makes for a smoother ride. Despite being air-cooled, it doesn’t get excessively hot, even in heavy traffic.
The bike also comes with a light clutch and brake levers, which make it easier to handle in stop-and-go conditions. This is particularly beneficial for riders who are tired after a long day at work.
Customization Options
The Hunter 350 I rode isn’t a stock model; it includes several OEM accessories that enhance both its appearance and functionality. The smoked flyscreen adds a stylish touch, while the black touring mirrors improve visibility. The aluminum sump guard provides additional protection and style. The comfort seat, with its red stitching, complements the Rebel Red color scheme and offers a pleasant riding experience.
These accessories, along with the bike’s base price, bring the total MSRP to just over $4,500. Adding panniers or a messenger bag is an easy way to increase storage capacity without breaking the bank.
Upcoming Updates
It’s worth noting that the first-generation Hunter 350 is currently being discussed, while an updated version has been released in India. This newer model includes features such as increased ground clearance, improved suspension, a slip-assist clutch, and a USB-C socket. While the timing of its release in the US is uncertain, the original Hunter 350 remains a strong contender for urban riders.
In conclusion, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a versatile, reliable, and stylish option for city living. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the streets, it offers a blend of practicality and charm that’s hard to match.
