Here’s a detailed comparison of the Yamaha XSR 155 and the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and which one could be the better pick for different kinds of riders.
1. Design and Style
- Yamaha XSR 155
The XSR 155 is a sleek neo-retro motorcycle. Its design merges classic round headlamps, clean lines, and a minimalist fuel tank with modern finishes. It feels sporty yet vintage, appealing to riders who want a modern bike with a classic soul. - Royal Enfield Hunter 350
The Hunter 350 embraces a more traditional roadster look. With its compact proportions, muscular fuel tank, and bold color options (like the Rebel, Dapper, and Factory variants), it has a strong street presence. The wide handlebars and upright stance give it a very user-friendly, in-town retro feel.
2. Engine & Performance
- XSR 155 Engine
- Displacement: ~155 cc
- Power: ~19.3 PS @ ~10,000 rpm
- Torque: ~14.7 Nm @ ~8,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Cooling: Liquid-cooled
This engine is peppy and rev-happy, built to deliver strong performance in its class, especially at higher revs. The 6-speed gearbox helps make good use of its powerband.
- Hunter 350 Engine
- Displacement: 349 cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled
- Power: ~20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm
- Torque: ~27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed
The Hunter’s motor emphasizes low-end torque, making it very usable in city riding and for comfortable, relaxed cruising.
Verdict (Performance):
- Go for the XSR 155 if you like sporty, revving rides and agile performance.
- Choose the Hunter 350 if you want strong torque, especially at low RPMs, and prefer a relaxed, smooth ride.
3. Ride Quality & Handling
- Yamaha XSR 155
With its lighter frame and smaller engine, the XSR 155 is agile and nimble. It’s good for quick lane changes, short bursts, and spirited city rides. The lighter weight also makes it friendlier for newer or smaller riders wanting an easy-handling retro bike. - Hunter 350
The Hunter has a more substantial feel thanks to its larger engine and heavier build. Its twin-shock rear suspension and telescopic front forks provide a stable and comfortable ride. The seat height (~790 mm) is manageable for many, and it’s well-suited for longer urban commutes or even weekend rides.
4. Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
- XSR 155
Reported owner mileage is around 45 km/l (or more) for typical usage. Because of its small, efficient engine and modern design, it offers strong fuel economy. - Hunter 350
The ARAI-claimed figure is around 36.2 kmpl, according to BikeWale. Real-world owner reports suggest 35 kmpl or slightly more in good riding conditions.
Verdict (Efficiency):
- The XSR 155 is clearly more fuel-efficient and great for cost-conscious commuting.
- The Hunter 350 gives decent mileage but consumes more, as expected from a larger-displacement bike.
5. Braking and Safety
- XSR 155
It comes with dual-channel ABS and disc brakes, which help deliver confident braking, especially in city traffic or sudden stops. - Hunter 350
Also has dual-channel ABS in many variants. The braking setup (300 mm front disc, 270 mm rear disc) is solid for its weight and engine size.
Verdict (Safety):
Both bikes are well equipped on the safety front, but the lighter weight of the XSR could make it feel more responsive under hard braking.
6. Features & Technology
- XSR 155
- Assist and slipper clutch: makes downshifting smoother and safer.
- Digital instrument cluster, modern panel, very clean layout.
- The high-rev engine and refined build suggest a more “premium feel.”
- Hunter 350
- Analog and digital instrument cluster in some variants; simple, functional design.
- The Tripper navigation pod is available in certain versions (especially for modern commuting).
- Strong retro styling, classic switchgear, and laid-back ergonomics.
Verdict (Features):
If technology and a sportier feel matter, the XSR 155 has the edge. For a simple, characteristic retro roadster, the Hunter 350 delivers what traditionalists want.
7. Comfort & Usability
- XSR 155
Its lightweight nature makes it very agile, but the seat might feel firmer and more tuned for sportier riding than long tour comfort. The compact tank and riding posture lean toward dynamic, shorter rides. - Hunter 350
Offers a more relaxed upright posture, which, combined with its decent seat height, makes it more comfortable for city cruising and occasional longer rides. The twin-shock setup also contributes to a smoother ride over rough patches.
8. Pricing & Value
- XSR 155
The ex-showroom price has been reported to be around ₹1.49 lakh for the Indian market.
Given its performance, features, and build quality, it offers very good value in the neo-retro segment. - Hunter 350
Depending on the variant, the price has been cited in different sources around ₹1.37 lakh in some listings. Its 349cc engine, solid torque, and road presence give it strong value for someone wanting a classic feel with modern reliability.
9. Practical Considerations
- Maintenance & Running Costs
- The XSR 155 is likely cheaper to maintain on a per-km basis given its smaller engine and efficient design.
- The Hunter 350, with a larger displacement, may have higher fuel costs, but for many, the pleasure of the classic engine and torquey feel will justify it.
- Use Case
- XSR 155: Excellent for young riders, city commuters, and those who want a stylish, nimble retro bike that’s also practical.
- Hunter 350: Great for riders who appreciate a more substantial bike with classic character, torque-rich performance, and a presence on the road.
Conclusion
It ultimately depends on your priorities:
- Go for the Yamaha XSR 155 if you want:
- A sporty, agile neo-retro ride
- Strong fuel efficiency
- A lighter bike that’s easy to maneuver
- Modern features like assist & slipper clutch
- Choose the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 if you prefer:
- Strong low-end torque and relaxed power delivery
- Vintage roadster character and classic styling
- Comfortable city commuting as well as occasional longer rides
- A more “muscular” feel and presence on the road
Overall Winner:
- For performance and modernity → XSR 155
- For raw charm + torque + classic feel → Hunter 350
If we were to pick just one for an urban rider who wants fun, efficiency, and easy handling, the XSR 155 would narrowly edge out the Hunter 350. But for someone who values the sound, feel, and character of a traditional Royal Enfield, the Hunter 350 is a deeply satisfying choice.