The modern-retro motorcycle segment in India has become increasingly interesting, with buyers getting several options that combine classic styling with modern equipment. Two motorcycles that stand out in this space are the TVS Ronin and the Royal Enfield Hunter 350.
Both motorcycles are designed for everyday riding, but they take noticeably different approaches. The Ronin is lighter, more technology-focused and easier to move around in traffic, while the Hunter 350 brings a larger engine, stronger torque output and the familiar Royal Enfield character.
TVS has also updated the Ronin lineup with additional features and a new Base+ variant, making the comparison even more relevant for buyers shopping in this price bracket.
So, between the TVS Ronin and Royal Enfield Hunter 350, which motorcycle makes more sense for you? Let's compare them across the areas that matter most.
The TVS Ronin offers multiple variants, allowing buyers to choose how much equipment they actually need. The latest lineup includes Base, Base+, Mid and Top versions, with prices depending on the specific variant.
The updated Base+ variant starts at around Rs 1.42 lakh, while the Mid and Top variants are priced at approximately Rs 1.52 lakh and Rs 1.64 lakh, respectively, ex-showroom.
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 starts at around Rs 1.38 lakh and goes up to approximately Rs 1.71 lakh, depending on the variant and colour.
This puts the two motorcycles fairly close to each other in terms of pricing. However, the important difference is what you get for the money.
The Ronin gives buyers a greater spread of technology as they move up the range, while the Hunter focuses more on its engine, traditional motorcycle appeal and riding experience.
This is where the two motorcycles have a very different story to tell.
The TVS Ronin uses a 225.9cc single-cylinder engine that produces around 20.1 bhp and 19.93 Nm of torque. It comes with a five-speed gearbox.
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 uses a substantially larger 349cc single-cylinder, air-oil-cooled engine. It produces around 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm, also paired with a five-speed gearbox.
Interestingly, peak power is almost identical between the two motorcycles despite the considerable difference in engine displacement. The Hunter, however, has a clear advantage in torque.
That additional torque gives the Hunter a stronger character, particularly when accelerating from lower and mid-range speeds. It can feel more relaxed when carrying a passenger or cruising on open roads.
The Ronin's smaller engine, meanwhile, is paired with a significantly lighter motorcycle. That changes the riding experience in an important way.
The TVS Ronin weighs around 160 kg, while the Hunter 350 is approximately 177–181 kg, depending on the variant.
That difference of more than 15 kg is noticeable.
The Ronin's lower weight makes it easier to handle in crowded city traffic, during quick direction changes and while moving the motorcycle around a parking area. Riders who regularly deal with congested roads may appreciate this lighter nature.
The Hunter 350 feels more substantial underneath you. Its additional weight, combined with the larger engine, gives it a more planted and traditional road-going feel.
If easy manoeuvrability is high on your list, the Ronin has an advantage. If you prefer the heavier feel associated with a larger retro motorcycle, the Hunter may suit you better.
This is one area where the TVS Ronin has a clear advantage.
The latest Ronin range brings features such as dual-channel ABS, Type-C charging, connected technology and traction control, although availability varies by variant.
Higher versions can also offer riding modes, Glide Through Technology and connected functions. Depending on the configuration, riders can access features such as turn-by-turn navigation, ride statistics, call and SMS alerts and vehicle-related notifications.
The new Base+ variant is particularly useful for buyers who want dual-channel ABS without stepping all the way up to the more expensive versions.
The Hunter 350 follows a simpler philosophy. Higher variants get dual-channel ABS and disc brakes at both ends, while the entry version uses single-channel ABS with a rear drum brake.
The Hunter does not attempt to match the Ronin feature-for-feature in terms of connected technology. Instead, its appeal comes from its mechanical character and straightforward riding experience.
The styling of both motorcycles follows a modern-retro theme, but they don't look alike.
The Ronin has a contemporary interpretation of a retro roadster. Its design is relatively compact and understated, with a clean appearance that works well for urban riding.
The Hunter 350 has a more traditional roadster personality. Its compact proportions, muscular stance and Royal Enfield design language give it a stronger old-school motorcycle identity.
Which one looks better is ultimately subjective.
The Ronin may appeal more to someone who wants a modern motorcycle with retro touches, while the Hunter is likely to attract riders who want a more recognisable classic-roadster appearance.
Both motorcycles offer ABS, but the equipment depends on the variant.
The updated Ronin lineup adds dual-channel ABS on the Base+ variant, with higher versions continuing to offer additional equipment.
The Hunter 350's braking setup varies by trim. The entry-level model uses single-channel ABS and a rear drum, while higher versions get dual-channel ABS along with disc brakes at both ends.
For buyers who frequently ride on highways or in wet conditions, it is worth considering a version equipped with dual-channel ABS rather than choosing purely on the basis of the lowest purchase price.
For regular urban use, the TVS Ronin has a strong advantage.
Its 160 kg kerb weight makes it easier to filter through traffic, turn around in tight spaces and manoeuvre at low speeds. The relatively compact package also works well for daily commuting.
The available technology adds to its convenience, particularly on higher variants.
The Hunter 350 is certainly usable in the city, but its additional weight and larger engine give it a different character. It feels more substantial, which some riders will enjoy, but it may not be as effortless as the Ronin during frequent stop-and-go riding.
For longer highway trips, the Hunter 350 makes a strong case.
Its 349cc engine produces 27 Nm of torque, considerably more than the Ronin. That gives it a more relaxed character when maintaining speed or dealing with inclines and a passenger.
The Ronin can handle highway riding, but its smaller engine and lower torque output mean it is better suited to riders who prefer a lighter, easier motorcycle rather than one with a strong torque-focused character.
If features are a major part of your buying decision, the TVS Ronin wins.
The availability of connected functions, riding modes, Type-C charging, traction control and other convenience features gives the Ronin a more technology-oriented personality.
The Hunter 350 is less focused on gadgetry. Its appeal lies more in the engine, styling and riding experience.
So, buyers who enjoy modern features will likely find more to appreciate in the Ronin.
There is no universal winner here because the two motorcycles are aimed at slightly different types of riders.
Buy the TVS Ronin if:
Buy the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 if:
The TVS Ronin and Royal Enfield Hunter 350 are not direct copies of each other, even though they compete for the attention of similar buyers.
The Ronin's biggest strengths are its low weight, easy handling and extensive technology package. It makes a lot of sense as an everyday motorcycle for riders who spend most of their time in urban traffic.
The Hunter 350 takes the more traditional route. Its 349cc engine delivers significantly more torque, while the heavier construction gives it the substantial feel many riders associate with a classic Royal Enfield.
For city-focused riders who want features and easy handling, the Ronin is the better choice. For riders who value engine capacity, torque and a more traditional motorcycle experience, the Hunter 350 is the stronger pick.
Ultimately, the best choice comes down to what you expect from your motorcycle every day. Don't choose solely by engine size or feature count—take both bikes for a proper test ride and see which one feels more natural to you.
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