Riding motorcycles in a dense, bustling city like Chicago requires a particular kind of bike something nimble, efficient, easy to manage, and above all, affordable. After nearly two decades of commuting on everything from scooters to full-size motorcycles (and even bicycles), I’ve found few bikes as surprisingly well-suited to daily urban life as the Royal Enfield Hunter 350.
Originally experienced in the chaotic traffic of Bangkok, the Hunter 350 proved itself a worthy companion, weaving through tight streets with grace. Naturally, I began to wonder how would it fare in Chicago’s rough-and-tumble, car-dominated streets? The answer is simple: incredibly well. The Hunter 350 is a true working-class hero of a motorcycle.
Quick Summary: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 (U.S. Spec Model)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Price (Rebel Red) | $4,199 |
| Engine | 349cc air-cooled single-cylinder |
| Horsepower | Approx. 20 hp |
| Fuel Economy | Over 81 mpg |
| Brakes | ByBre disc brakes with braided steel lines |
| Top Speed | 70+ mph (short stints only recommended) |
| Weight | Approx. 400 lbs |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 3.4 gallons |
| Seat Height | 31.1 inches |
| Ideal Use Case | Urban commuting and short rides |
| Official Website | royalenfield.com |
Why the Hunter 350 Works for City Commuting
The Hunter 350 isn’t the fastest or most high-tech motorcycle on the market, but that’s precisely what makes it charming. Its small size and light weight make it perfect for tight city streets and congested traffic. Whether you’re navigating potholes, dodging double-parked delivery trucks, or squeezing into small parking spots, the Hunter 350 makes it easy.
It’s nimble, extremely manageable at low speeds, and it feels planted. And despite being an air-cooled single-cylinder, it doesn’t get overly hot in traffic-especially important in a city like Chicago, where lane splitting isn’t legal and summer heat can be brutal.
Comfortable and Practical for Daily Use
The Hunter 350 is equipped with practical features that make everyday commuting more pleasant. The flat clutch and brake levers feel great in hand, with the clutch in particular being among the lightest cable-operated clutches I’ve used. It’s forgiving for new riders and comfortable for experienced ones stuck in stop-and-go traffic after a long workday.
Fuel economy is another highlight. After running a full tank, I logged 179 miles before the low fuel light came on, and filled it with just over 2.2 gallons. That’s a calculated 81 miles per gallon, outperforming even some scooters in real-world conditions.
Not Designed for the Highway, but That’s Okay
You can take the Hunter 350 on the highway briefly, but it’s not where the bike shines. At 70 mph, it can keep up-just don’t expect long-distance touring comfort or power. This bike is built for urban environments and short to medium rides, not cross-country hauls.
Accessorizing the Hunter 350
The model I tested had several Royal Enfield OEM accessories, which elevated both its style and practicality:
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Smoked Flyscreen ($119.95): Adds style and slight wind deflection. A nice touch if you appreciate a bit of wind protection.
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Black Touring Mirrors ($239.95): Great visibility, solid build, and zero vibration at speed.
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Aluminum Sump Guard ($89.95): A mix of form and function, offering some protection with rugged looks.
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Comfort Seat with Red Stitching ($139.95): Excellent for longer rides. At 5’3″ with a 27-inch inseam, I found the ergonomics perfect.
Even with all these upgrades, the fully accessorized MSRP hovers just above $4,500-a bargain for a stylish, reliable urban commuter.
What About the Updated Hunter 350?
As of this writing (August 2025), the first-generation Hunter 350 is still the only version available in the U.S. However, Royal Enfield has announced an updated model for India and Japan, featuring:
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Increased ground clearance
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New suspension tuning
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A slip-assist clutch (a first for RE’s 350s)
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LED headlamp
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USB-C charging socket
It remains unclear when or if these updates will arrive stateside, but the original model still delivers outstanding value.
Final Thoughts: Who Is the Hunter 350 For?
If you’re a new rider, a smaller rider, or simply someone looking for a dependable daily commuter, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a stellar choice. It’s budget-friendly, has personality, and can be dressed up without spending a fortune.
Sure, there are faster, flashier bikes out there-but few offer this combination of charm, functionality, and affordability. In a time when prices keep climbing, the Hunter 350 is a breath of fresh air.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 good for beginners?
A. Yes. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and very forgiving, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Q: Can the Hunter 350 be used for highway riding?
A. Yes, but only for short stints. It can reach highway speeds, but it’s not built for extended high-speed travel.
Q: What kind of fuel economy does the Hunter 350 offer?
A. Over 81 miles per gallon in real-world urban riding.
Q: Is it available in the U.S.?
A. Yes, the first-gen model is available as of mid-2025. The updated version is not yet confirmed for U.S. markets.
Q: Is it customizable?
A. Absolutely. Royal Enfield offers a full line of OEM accessories including seats, guards, mirrors, and flyscreens.
Q: How tall do I need to be to ride the Hunter 350?
A. With a 31.1-inch seat height, it suits a wide range of riders. It’s especially friendly to those under 5’5” due to its manageable size and weight.
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