TVS Ronin vs Hunter 350: A Detailed, Honest Comparison for Real-World Riders
In the rapidly evolving Indian mid-capacity motorcycle segment, two bikes have managed to capture attention for very different reasons — the TVS Ronin and the Royal Enfield Hunter 350. Both are positioned as urban-friendly motorcycles, but their philosophies, riding experience, and target audience differ significantly. This comparison takes a practical, rider-centric approach to help you decide which motorcycle genuinely suits your needs.
Design & Road Presence
The TVS Ronin takes a modern-retro approach. It blends elements of a scrambler, roadster, and cruiser, resulting in a unique design that stands out without being loud. The T-shaped LED DRL, sculpted fuel tank, offset speedometer, and minimalistic tail section give the Ronin a contemporary yet rugged identity. It appeals strongly to riders who want something different from the traditional retro template.
The Hunter 350, on the other hand, is unmistakably Royal Enfield. Its design is rooted in classic roadster styling — round headlamp, teardrop fuel tank, and a compact silhouette. Compared to other RE models, the Hunter looks leaner and more youthful. While it may not be as visually experimental as the Ronin, its timeless appeal and brand familiarity carry immense weight, especially among first-time Royal Enfield buyers.
Verdict: Ronin for uniqueness and modern flair; Hunter for classic charm and brand legacy.
Engine & Performance
Under the tank, the differences become even clearer. The TVS Ronin is powered by a 225.9cc oil-cooled engine producing around 20.4 PS and 19.93 Nm of torque. It feels refined, responsive, and surprisingly punchy for city riding. The engine loves mid-range revs and offers smooth power delivery, making daily commuting effortless.
The Hunter 350 uses Royal Enfield’s proven 349cc J-series engine, delivering approximately 20.2 PS and 27 Nm of torque. While peak power figures are similar, the torque advantage is significant. The Hunter feels relaxed and unhurried, excelling at low-end grunt rather than outright acceleration. It’s not a fast motorcycle, but it’s comfortable cruising and forgiving for beginners.
Verdict: Ronin feels quicker and more playful; Hunter offers stronger torque and relaxed riding.
Ride Quality & Handling
This is where the TVS Ronin surprises many riders. Its suspension setup is well-tuned for Indian roads, absorbing bumps confidently while maintaining stability at higher speeds. The lighter kerb weight and agile chassis make it easy to maneuver through traffic and twisty roads alike.
The Hunter 350 is the most agile Royal Enfield yet, thanks to its shorter wheelbase and lower weight compared to other REs. It handles city traffic better than expected and feels planted at moderate speeds. However, the suspension is slightly on the firmer side, especially over sharp bumps, which some riders may notice on rough roads.
Verdict: Ronin feels more balanced and versatile; Hunter is stable but slightly firmer.
Features & Technology
TVS has clearly taken the lead in features. The Ronin offers a fully digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, glide-through traffic (low-RPM assist), adjustable levers, and dual-channel ABS as standard on higher variants. These features add real value in daily usage.
The Hunter 350 keeps things simple. It offers a semi-digital console and optional Tripper navigation on select variants. While it lacks advanced tech, some riders appreciate this simplicity, as it aligns with Royal Enfield’s old-school motorcycling philosophy.
Verdict: Ronin wins clearly on features; Hunter focuses on mechanical purity.
Comfort & Ergonomics
The Ronin’s upright seating position, wide handlebar, and well-padded seat make it comfortable for both city rides and short highway trips. The footpeg positioning is neutral, reducing fatigue over longer distances.
The Hunter 350 has a slightly more compact riding posture. While it is comfortable for average-height riders, taller riders may find the seat-to-peg distance a bit cramped on long rides. The seat cushioning is decent but not class-leading.
Verdict: Ronin offers better all-round comfort; Hunter suits shorter urban commutes.
Mileage & Maintenance
In real-world conditions, the Ronin delivers around 40–42 km/l, while the Hunter 350 returns approximately 35–38 km/l depending on riding style. Maintenance costs for both are reasonable, though TVS generally edges ahead with lower service and spare part costs.
Royal Enfield’s service network is extensive, which is a big advantage in smaller towns, but long-term ownership costs can be slightly higher.
Price & Value for Money
The TVS Ronin is competitively priced and offers more features per rupee, making it excellent value for money. The Hunter 350 is priced slightly higher in comparable variants, with the premium largely justified by brand value and engine capacity.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the TVS Ronin if you want:
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A modern, feature-rich motorcycle
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Better ride comfort and agility
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Lower ownership costs
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A unique design that stands out
Choose the Hunter 350 if you want:
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The Royal Enfield brand experience
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Strong low-end torque and relaxed riding
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Classic styling with modern reliability
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A motorcycle rooted in heritage
Both bikes are excellent in their own right. The right choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize modern versatility or timeless motorcycling character.
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Akshat Verma