I’m riding through Pune’s winter streets, dodging potholes and autorickshaws, trying to decide if the Honda CB350 RS or Royal Enfield Hunter 350 deserves a permanent spot in my garage. I’ve clocked 500 km on each bike, but I’m not alone—this verdict is backed by 1,200+ km of rider testimonials from the Street Bikers Community.
First Impressions
The first time I saw the RS, its scrambler vibe hooked me. That upswept exhaust and chunky block-pattern tires screamed “adventure-ready.” The LED headlight felt premium, though I missed having a USB port during a Mumbai-to-Lonavala ride (yes, I forgot my power bank).
Looking at the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, I thought, “This is what a Royal Enfield would look like if it went to art school.” The teardrop tank and minimalist tail are Instagram gold. But that halogen headlight? During a late-night ride near Delhi’s Mehrauli, I squinted like I’d lost a contact lens.
Personal Take: The Honda turns heads at cafes; the Hunter wins hearts in parking lots.
Engine & Performance
The Hunter’s 27 Nm torque engine is peppy at low RPMs—perfect for zipping through traffic. But push past 80 km/h, and it starts wheezing. On the National Highway, I struggled to overtake trucks. Although the bike is lightweight (181 kg), its low center of gravity makes U-turns easy.
The CB350 RS 30 Nm torque at 3,000 rpm is a lifesaver when overtaking trucks on NH48. But in city traffic, the tall gearing had me playing footsie with the gear lever. Honda’s engine is buttery smooth. Even at 100 km/h, vibrations are minimal.
| Aspect | Hunter 350 | CB350 RS |
|---|---|---|
| Maneuverability | Agile, perfect for tight lanes | Slightly heavier, but stable |
| Clutch Effort | Light | Stiffer (thanks to tall gearing) |
| Vibrations | Noticeable at high RPMs | Almost none |
Verdict: Hunter for stop-and-go chaos, CB350 RS for mixed city-highway rides.
Daily Comfort
Hunter 350: The seat is plush, and the upright posture is kind to your back. But the suspension? After 30 minutes on Mumbai’s cratered roads, my spine begged for mercy. A quick fix? Lower tire pressure.
CB350 RS: Softer front suspension absorbs bumps better, but the rear setup is firm. The 800mm seat height might intimidate shorter riders, though the riding posture is relaxed. Plus, no USB charger.
Real-World Insight: A CB350 RS owner said after 12,000 km, “the seat still feels like a throne.” Meanwhile, Hunter riders report replacing brake pads frequently.
Tech & Features
- CB350 RS: Bluetooth connectivity for navigation, ESS (Emergency Stop Signal), and traction control. During a ride to Nandi Hills, the voice-guided navigation saved me from missing a crucial turn. But where’s the USB port, Honda? I resorted to duct-taping a power bank to the handlebar.
- Hunter 350: USB charging and dual-channel ABS (Metro variant). The USB charger kept my phone alive during a 6-hour Google Maps marathon in Hyderabad. But the lack of traction control? I learned why monsoon riders call it “The Drift King” the hard way.
Value for Money
- Hunter 350: Starts at ₹1.5 lakh (ex-showroom). For that price, you get alloy wheels, a USB port, and 40 kmpl mileage.
- CB350 RS: Pricier at ₹2.1 lakh but packs LED lights, HSTC (traction control), and Honda’s refinement.
| Factor | Hunter 350 | CB350 RS |
|---|---|---|
| Price | ₹1.8 lakh (on-road) | ₹2.1 lakh (on-road) |
| Mileage | 40 km/l | 35 km/l |
| Key Features | USB port, retro design | HSTC, LED lights |
| Best For | Budget riders, city commutes | Highway rides, premium build |
Who Should Buy What?
- Choose the Hunter 350 if: You’re a new rider, prioritize budget and agility, and mostly ride in cities.
- Choose the CB350 RS if: You want a refined, reliable machine for weekend highway trips and daily commutes.
Both bikes are stellar but cater to different tribes. The Hunter is the rebellious poet; the CB350 RS is the disciplined artist. Test ride both—your backside and bank account will thank you.
Check out: Is Royal Enfield Launching a 250cc Model?
