Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Review: Will make you visit the mountains along with daily cruising! This bike is best for these people
Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Review: When Royal Enfield retired the Thunderbird, many people thought that no one would be able to replace it. Meteor 350 has not only filled that gap but has also started a new era. This bike is based on J-Platform, which has completely eliminated the old vibration problem. The company sells it at a starting ex-showroom price of ₹ 1,95,762.
We got a chance to drive this amazing cruiser from Royal Enfield. After riding for about 300 km, it is clear that this bike is for those riders who give more importance to comfort and style than speed. This is a modern cruiser, which is connected to its roots and maintains its dominance everywhere, from city to highway. Come, let us try to know everything about it.
Design & Build Quality
The look of the Meteor 350 is reminiscent of a classic American cruiser. Its low-slung seat, high handlebar and forward sloping footpegs give it an easy rider stance. Talking about build quality, Royal Enfield has made a lot of improvements in the quality of switchgear and paint. You will not feel cheap plastic anywhere. Come, let’s take a look at its look.
- Fuel Tank: Its tear-drop shaped fuel tank looks quite muscular.
- Finishing: The use of chrome and color options (like Supernova or Stellar series) give it a premium feel.
- Lighting: In this you get LED DRL ring with halogen headlamp, which gives it a retro-modern look. The taillight also looks quite cool.
Features & Technology
The biggest attraction of this bike is its tripper navigation system. It shows you turn-by-turn navigation through Google Maps, which is very useful in long rides. Let’s take a look at some highlights.
- Instrument Cluster: It has an analog-digital combo meter, which provides information like fuel gauge, trip meter and gear position indicator.
- USB Charging: A USB port is provided at the bottom of the handle, so that your phone does not get discharged while on the go.
- alloy wheels: The presence of tubeless tires and alloy wheels makes it free from the worry of puncture.
Safety
Royal Enfield has not made any compromise in the matter of safety. Dual-channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is available as standard. Disc brakes of 300 mm at the front and 270 mm at the rear have been provided, which stop even the heavy bike reliably. The wide tires provide excellent grip on the road, especially when you are on wet roads or corners.
Engine & Mileage
The company sells it with a 349cc single-cylinder, air-oil cooled, SOHC engine. It gives power of 20.2 bhp @ 6100 rpm and torque of 27 Nm @ 4000 rpm. Also it has a 5-speed gearbox. Mileage according to ARAI is 41.88 kmpl, whereas in real-world it gives up to 30 kmpl on the highway and 25 kmpl in the city.
Riding Experience
After driving 300 kms, we can say that the riding position is its biggest strength. Due to the seat height of 765mm, even short height people can control it easily. In city traffic, its torque saves it from the hassle of changing gears frequently.
However, its rear suspension may feel a bit stiff, which may jolt your back a bit on bad roads. But on the highway this bike is absolutely ‘butter’. Its thump (exhaust sound) also gives confidence while riding.
Final Verdict
Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is a great option for those who want a bike that they can take to office and also take to the mountains on weekends. This is a relaxed machine. If you want to go racing, this is not for you. But if you want to ride gracefully while enjoying the views, then this is the best bike in this segment.
Features: Refined engine, comfortable seating and great looks.
Flaws: Slightly stiff rear suspension and less power at the top-end.
