Which is better in a budget of ₹2 lakh: Yamaha XSR 155 or Royal Enfield Hunter 350? know this
Both Yamaha XSR 155 and Royal Enfield Hunter 350 are popular neo-retro styled motorcycles that attract young riders in the Indian market. Both these bikes are competing with each other in the premium 150-350cc segment. The XSR 155 focuses on Japanese refinement and sporty performance, while the Hunter 350 offers classic thump and torquey riding experience.
The starting price of Hunter 350 ranges from ₹ 1.38 lakh to ₹ 1.67 lakh. Whereas, the price of XSR 155 goes from ₹ 1.50 lakh to ₹ 1.59 lakh. Hunter 350 is cheaper in the base variant, but both become almost equal in the top variants. Adding RTO and insurance to the on-road prices, the Hunter can reach ₹1.60-1.95 lakh and the XSR can reach ₹1.75-1.85 lakh. Let us look at the details from their design to performance.
Yamaha XSR 155 vs Royal Enfield Hunter 350: Design
Both the bikes have retro look, but the style is different. The XSR 155 is a neo-retro cafe racer. It has been introduced with round headlamps, USD forks, compact body (2005mm length) and sporty silhouette. It is based on the R15 platform, which gives it a modern and aggressive look. Colors available are Metallic Grey, Red, Blue and Black, with the option of customization with Cafe Racer or Scrambler kits.
On the other hand, Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a classic roadster. It is offered with a muscular tank, short wheelbase (1370mm), LED headlights (in Metro variant) and retro wheels. It is 2055mm long and comes in bold colors like Tokyo Black, London Red. The Hunter’s design looks more relaxed and has a unique thump, while the XSR looks sportier.
Ergonomics and dashboard
Hunter 350 is ahead in riding position and comfort. Its seat height is only 790mm, which is easy for short riders (less than 5’5″). Upright handlebar, retro style seat and better cushioning ensure less fatigue in city traffic or long rides. The dashboard features an LCD semi-digital cluster and USB-C charging.
The seat height of the XSR 155 is 810mm, which gives a slightly sportier posture. Footpegs behind, but manageable even in the city. The digital LCD cluster comes with brightness controls connected to the Y-Connect app. Both have good leg room, but the XSR is lighter (137kg) and feels easier to handle, while the Hunter (181kg) feels more stable.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Vs Yamaha XSR 155: Features
Both have features like dual channel ABS, Bluetooth connectivity, assist and slipper clutch and USB charging. But XSR 155 is ahead. It gets features like traction control, full LED lights, real-time mileage and location tracking from Y-Connect app. The Hunter 350 features tripper navigation (Metro variant), Type-C fast charging and retuned suspension (6-step adjustable). The XSR has more modern tech, while the Hunter has practical city features. There is no cruise control or quickshifter in both.
Engine and Performance
The 349cc air-oil cooled single-cylinder engine of Hunter 350 produces 20.2 BHP and 27 Nm torque. Low-end torque is tremendous. Its top speed is 130 kmph. It comes with 5-speed gearbox and 13 liter tank. The XSR 155’s 155cc liquid-cooled engine (with VVA), on the other hand, produces 18.4 PS and 14.2 Nm. The XSR is revvy and quick, while the Hunter looks thumpy and relaxed.
Who is better: If you want torque, classic feel, comfort and value then choose Royal Enfield Hunter 350. It is perfect for both city and highway. But if you like sporty performance, better mileage, modern features and light handling then Yamaha XSR 155 is the best. The service network of both is good, but RE can be considered more reliable.
