The royal enfield hunter 350 graphite grey stands as one of the most anticipated motorcycles in the Indian market, combining Royal Enfield’s classic heritage with modern engineering excellence. This comprehensive review explores everything you need to know about this stunning machine, from pricing details to performance specifications and real-world ownership experiences.
Introduction
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has redefined what riders can expect from a modern classic motorcycle. Launched as part of Royal Enfield’s J-platform series, the royal enfield hunter 350 graphite grey variant specifically captures attention with its sophisticated metallic finish that perfectly balances contemporary aesthetics with timeless appeal.
This motorcycle represents Royal Enfield’s commitment to accessible performance, offering riders an entry point into the brand’s legendary riding experience without compromising on quality or style. Built on the proven J1C platform that also underpins the Meteor 350, the Hunter 350 brings a more compact, urban-focused approach to Royal Enfield’s touring DNA.
Launch and Positioning
Royal Enfield officially launched the Hunter 350 in August 2022, strategically positioning it as a roadster that bridges the gap between entry-level motorcycles and premium offerings. The launch strategy emphasized three key positioning pillars:
• **Urban Mobility**: Designed specifically for city riding with comfortable ergonomics
• **Accessible Premium**: Premium build quality at a competitive price point
• **Style Statement**: Contemporary design language appealing to younger demographics
The Hunter 350 targets riders aged 25-35 who seek a motorcycle that performs equally well during daily commutes and weekend adventures. Royal Enfield positioned this model to compete directly with bikes like the Honda CB350RS and Jawa 42, while maintaining its distinctive classic aesthetic.
The launch coincided with Royal Enfield’s broader strategy to expand its product portfolio beyond traditional touring motorcycles, marking a significant shift toward more versatile, everyday riding solutions.
Price in India
The royal enfield hunter 350 graphite grey is competitively priced in the Indian market:
**Ex-Showroom Pricing** (as of 2025):
• Metro (Standard): ₹1,73,000
• Retro (Premium): ₹1,83,000
**On-Road Pricing** varies by state due to different tax structures:
• Delhi: ₹1,95,000 – ₹2,05,000
• Mumbai: ₹2,01,000 – ₹2,11,000
• Bangalore: ₹1,98,000 – ₹2,08,000
• Chennai: ₹1,96,000 – ₹2,06,000
**Financing Options**:
• Down payment: Starting from ₹25,000
• EMI options: ₹4,500 – ₹6,000 per month
• Loan tenure: Up to 7 years
• Processing fees: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000
The pricing strategy positions the Hunter 350 as a premium affordable option, offering excellent value proposition when compared to competitors in similar displacement categories.
What’s New: royal enfield hunter 350 graphite grey Exterior Highlights
The graphite grey variant showcases several distinctive exterior elements that set it apart from other color options:
**Color and Finish**:
• Premium metallic graphite grey paint with subtle shimmer effect
• Matte black accents on engine components and exhaust system
• Chrome detailing on headlamp ring, mirrors, and tank badges
**Design Elements**:
• Compact 13.4-liter teardrop fuel tank with pronounced knee recesses
• Single-piece seat with premium stitching details
• Minimalist tail section with integrated LED brake light
• Spoke wheels (19″ front, 17″ rear) with chrome spokes
**Lighting**:
• LED headlamp with distinctive Royal Enfield signature
• LED tail lamp with clear lens design
• LED turn indicators (front and rear)
• Hazard light functionality
**Hardware**:
• Black powder-coated engine fins and covers
• Brushed aluminum handlebar clamp and rear grab rail
• Premium quality switchgear with backlit controls
Interior and Comfort Upgrades
While motorcycles don’t have traditional interiors, the Hunter 350’s cockpit and comfort features deserve special attention:
**Instrument Cluster**:
• Analog speedometer with digital insets
• Fuel gauge, clock, and odometer displays
• Service reminder indicator
• Low fuel warning light
• Engine temperature indicator
**Seating Comfort**:
• Single-piece seat with 800mm seat height
• Comfortable padding suitable for both rider and pillion
• Ergonomic design reducing strain during longer rides
• Easy accessibility for riders of varying heights
**Rider Ergonomics**:
• Upright riding position reducing back strain
• Well-positioned footpegs for natural leg positioning
• Comfortable handlebar reach and height
• Adequate knee room around the fuel tank
**Storage Solutions**:
• Under-seat storage compartment
• Multiple mounting points for accessories
• USB charging port (optional accessory)
• Phone holder compatibility
Infotainment and Connectivity
The royal enfield hunter 350 graphite grey offers modern connectivity features:
**Standard Features**:
• Tripper Navigation system (optional)
• Bluetooth connectivity via Royal Enfield app
• Turn-by-turn navigation display
• Call and message notifications
**Mobile Integration**:
• Royal Enfield app compatibility
• Real-time vehicle diagnostics
• Service booking and reminders
• Ride analytics and statistics
**Additional Connectivity**:
• USB charging provision (accessory)
• Smartphone mounting solutions
• Integration with popular navigation apps
• Voice command functionality (via connected phone)
The infotainment system, while not as comprehensive as four-wheeler systems, provides essential connectivity features that modern riders expect from their motorcycles.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety remains paramount in the Hunter 350’s design philosophy:
**Active Safety Features**:
• Dual-channel ABS as standard equipment
• 300mm front disc brake with two-piston caliper
• 270mm rear disc brake with single-piston caliper
• Well-calibrated brake feel and progression
**Structural Safety**:
• Robust double-cradle frame construction
• Crash-tested design meeting global safety standards
• Strategic crumple zones for impact absorption
• Reinforced mounting points for critical components
**Visibility Enhancements**:
• Bright LED lighting all around
• Reflective elements on wheels and body panels
• High-visibility color scheme options
• Optional auxiliary lighting mounts
**Riding Aids**:
• Predictable handling characteristics
• Progressive braking system
• Stable geometry for confident cornering
• Weather-resistant electrical components
Engines, Transmissions, and Efficiency
The heart of the royal enfield hunter 350 graphite grey is its refined powertrain:
**Engine Specifications**:
• Displacement: 349cc single-cylinder, air-cooled
• Power Output: 20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm
• Torque: 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
• Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
• Bore x Stroke: 72mm x 85.8mm
**Transmission**:
• 5-speed manual gearbox
• Wet multi-plate clutch
• Smooth shifting characteristics
• Optimized gear ratios for city and highway riding
**Fuel Efficiency**:
• ARAI certified: 36.2 km/l
• Real-world efficiency: 30-34 km/l (depending on riding conditions)
• Fuel tank capacity: 13.4 liters
• Range: Approximately 400-450 km per tank
**Performance Characteristics**:
• 0-60 km/h: 5.8 seconds
• Top speed: 114 km/h (tested)
• Smooth power delivery throughout rev range
• Adequate performance for both city and highway use
Ride, Handling, and Refinement
The riding experience of the Hunter 350 sets it apart in its segment:
**Suspension Setup**:
• Front: 41mm telescopic forks with 130mm travel
• Rear: Twin shock absorbers with 101mm travel
• Well-balanced setup for comfort and handling
**Handling Characteristics**:
• Nimble and flickable in city traffic
• Stable at highway speeds
• Confidence-inspiring cornering abilities
• Precise steering response
**Ride Quality**:
• Excellent absorption of road irregularities
• Comfortable over long distances
• Minimal vibrations throughout rev range
• Smooth engine refinement
**Braking Performance**:
• Strong and progressive braking feel
• ABS intervention is smooth and unobtrusive
• Good lever feel and modulation
• Adequate stopping power for all conditions
Rivals and Alternatives
The royal enfield hunter 350 graphite grey competes in a crowded segment:
**Direct Competitors**:
• **Honda CB350RS**: Similar displacement, sportier styling
• **Jawa 42**: Classic design, comparable pricing
• **Bajaj Dominar 250**: More power-focused approach
• **TVS Apache RTR 310**: Higher performance, premium pricing
**Comparison Highlights**:
• Hunter 350 offers better build quality than most rivals
• Competitive pricing with premium feel
• Unique Royal Enfield brand appeal
• Better long-distance comfort than sportier alternatives
**Market Positioning**:
• Premium end of 300-400cc segment
• Strong brand heritage advantage
• Excellent dealer network and service support
• Higher resale value retention
Who Should Consider It
The Hunter 350 appeals to a specific rider profile:
**Ideal Buyers**:
• Urban professionals seeking reliable daily transportation
• Weekend touring enthusiasts
• First-time Royal Enfield buyers
• Riders upgrading from smaller displacement bikes
• Style-conscious buyers valuing brand heritage
**Perfect Use Cases**:
• Daily city commuting with weekend touring capability
• College students and young professionals
• Riders prioritizing comfort over outright performance
• Those seeking a hassle-free ownership experience
**Not Recommended For**:
• Riders seeking track-focused performance
• Those requiring pillion comfort for long distances
• Buyers prioritizing maximum fuel efficiency
• Riders needing extensive cargo carrying capability
Booking, Deliveries, and Ownership
**Booking Process**:
• Online booking available through Royal Enfield website
• Dealership booking with ₹5,000 token amount
• Delivery timeline: 2-4 weeks depending on location
• Color-specific availability may vary
**Delivery Experience**:
• Pre-delivery inspection (PDI) at dealership
• Initial service scheduled at 500 km
• Comprehensive owner orientation program
• Digital owner’s manual and app access
**Ownership Costs**:
• Service intervals: Every 10,000 km or 12 months
• Average service cost: ₹2,500-₹4,000
• Annual maintenance: ₹8,000-₹12,000
• Insurance: ₹6,000-₹9,000 annually
**Dealer Network**:
• 1,000+ dealerships across India
• Comprehensive service network
• Genuine parts availability
• Extended warranty options available
Pros and Cons
**Advantages**:
• Excellent build quality and premium feel
• Smooth, refined engine performance
• Comfortable riding position for various rider heights
• Strong brand appeal and heritage
• Good fuel efficiency for the displacement
• Comprehensive dealer network
• Competitive pricing in premium segment
• Attractive graphite grey color option
• Modern features with classic styling
• Strong resale value retention
**Disadvantages**:
• Limited pillion comfort for long distances
• Engine could use more mid-range punch
• Seat could be softer for extended touring
• No gear position indicator
• Limited under-seat storage space
• Chrome elements require regular maintenance
• Slightly heavy for new riders
• Basic instrument cluster compared to digital alternatives
FAQs
**Q: What is the real-world fuel efficiency of the royal enfield hunter 350 graphite grey?**
A: Based on owner reports, the Hunter 350 delivers approximately 30-34 km/l in mixed riding conditions, with careful riding potentially yielding up to 38 km/l on highways.
**Q: How does the graphite grey variant differ from other color options?**
A: The graphite grey variant features a premium metallic finish with subtle shimmer effects, matte black engine components, and chrome accents. Mechanically, all color variants are identical.
**Q: Is the Hunter 350 suitable for tall riders?**
A: Yes, with an 800mm seat height and upright riding position, the Hunter 350 accommodates riders from 5’6″ to 6’2″ comfortably. The ergonomics are well-suited for Indian rider demographics.
**Q: What is the service interval and typical maintenance cost?**
A: The Hunter 350 requires servicing every 10,000 km or 12 months. Typical service costs range from ₹2,500-₹4,000, with annual maintenance expenses averaging ₹8,000-₹12,000.
**Q: Can the Hunter 350 handle highway touring?**
A: Absolutely. The Hunter 350 is comfortable for highway cruising at 80-90 km/h, with adequate power reserves for overtaking. The riding position and suspension setup make it suitable for 300-400 km daily touring distances.