Motorcycle specifications Royal-EnfieldHNTR 350 2023 Young Rick Hunter

Royal-Enfield continues its conquest phase with the HNTR 350, also known as the Hunter on the other side of the globe. Based on the same platform as the Meteor and Classic, this little Indian model is more of a roadster, with a retro feel. But the retro-trend, the kind that appeals to young people. And that's exactly the audience it's aiming for. Not for a trendy neighborhood or a fashionable country. Bigger, wider... for the World.

This machine can undertake to please many countries. However, most of its production will be sold in New Delhi. R.E.'s reasoning is based primarily on its home country, one of the world's largest populations, and the suffocating density of its cities. The HNTR is the machine best suited to being fun and stylish in the city. Its looks are reminiscent of a small English motorcycle, compact in size and not shy in physique.

It's meant to be dynamic, and gives itself the means to be so, with a shorter wheelbase and straighter steering than the other 350s in the range. A large, comfortable seat offers a level of comfort unheard of on a bike of this size. From the handlebars to the riding position and seat height, everything promises to be relaxed on board. This is because the HNTR is primarily intended for urban use (or even a few pleasant country jaunts), for cruising between buildings without getting carried away.

An environment where the engine will be at its most comfortable. The block (349 cm3, 1 ACT, 2 valves) common to the range produces around twenty horsepower. It's not violent, and won't appeal to fans of sensations, high-voltage streets or messy brawls. Its trump card is a gentle little everyday force, a charming little character, where the nose guides the engine speed towards the scents of strolls. Its leitmotiv is to turn corners without worrying about gears, speed or an impatient propeller. Yes, riding a 350 Royal-Enfield is a philosophy, where riding soft is more important than riding hard.

Simplicity is also evident in the chassis, where the tubular steel frame with interrupted cradle houses the vertical single-cylinder without hiding it. Suspension is basic, braking entrusted to one disc per wheel, tires fairly narrow (long live agility) - nothing to bite your ears about. But if you're looking for excitement on an HNTR, you've missed the point. This is an acoustic guitar, not a Roland TB 303.

the little Hunter roadster is available in an entry-level version called the Dapper. For an extra buck, the Rebel model comes in much nicer two-tone colors. A USB socket (well hidden) and center stand are standard. There's no rev counter, but a nice little digital speedometer completes the nice little needle, very optimistic with its 160 ceiling - don't expect to go over 120 once you start. A simplified GPS is available as an option, with the Trigger system.
Not least, the HNTR 350 is less expensive than most 125 roadsters(Yamaha MT, Kawasaki Z or Honda CB). Its price is comparable to that of the Honda Monkey. What's more, it promises to be low-maintenance.

The little HNTR roadster is a clever addition to the small Royal-Enfield family, in a more pop/urban-culture spirit. A mouse for our market, but a highly strategic machine for India.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos