In the world of motorcycles, the scramble for supremacy is a never-ending saga, with enthusiasts constantly seeking the perfect mixture of style, performance, and bike adventure.
The two contenders for the title of ultimate scrambler bike are the TVS Ronin and the Royal Enfield Hunter 350. Both bikes represent the spirit of the classic scrambler while offering modern features and powers. But who is supreme? Let’s compare both motorcycles in this blog.
Design and Style
The TVS Ronin has a sleek, aggressive design, sharp lines, and a muscular stance. Its minimalist approach is highlighted by the exposed frame and compact bodywork, giving it a futuristic yet rugged appeal.
On the other hand, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 possesses a classic charm with its retro-inspired motorcycle design, including a teardrop fuel tank, round headlamp, and spoked wheels.
Engine and Performance
TVS Ronin has a powerful 225cc engine with a four-valve head that makes the engine more refined. Despite its relatively smaller displacement engine than the Hunter 350, the Ronin’s engine is tuned to provide much torque throughout the rev range, ensuring responsive acceleration and quick throttle response.
In contrast, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is powered by a larger 349cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine known for its smooth power delivery and unique exhaust.
Ride and Handling
The TVS Ronin 225 offers a dynamic and engaging riding experience because of its lightweight chassis and responsive suspension. It provides a balanced combination of agility and stability, allowing riders to confidently tackle tight corners and urban streets while maintaining control and movability. Its handling feature and the bike’s light nature ensure a comfortable ride over varying road surfaces.
On the contrary, The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 provides a comfortable and relaxed riding experience, ideal for long-distance cruising and leisurely rides. Its comfortable riding position, plush seat, and smooth power delivery contribute to a fatigue-free journey, allowing riders to enjoy extended rides easily. While not as elegant as its competitor, its flexible handling features inspire confidence in the riders to enjoy the ride without feeling rushed or stressed.
Features and Specifications
In terms of features, both bikes come equipped with modern amenities to enhance the riding experience of the riders.
The TVS Ronin has a range of advanced electronics such as ride-by-wire throttle, dual-channel ABS, various riding modes, and a fully digital instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity. It also offers adjustable suspension and LED lighting for added convenience and safety.
On the other hand, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 keeps it simple with retro-inspired analog dials, ABS, and a traditional suspension setup. While lacking in high-tech gadgets, it offers an overall approach to riding. Hunter 350 also allows customizable accessories such as luggage sacks, saddlebags, engine guards, and various visual enhancements.
| Specs | Royal Enfield Hunter 350 | TVS Ronin |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, Four-Stroke, 2 Valve SOHC | Single-cylinder, Four-Stroke, 4 Valve SOHC |
| Engine Displacement | 349 cc | 225.9 cc |
| Bore | 75 mm | 66 mm |
| Stroke | 85.8 mm | 66 mm |
| Maximum Power | 20.2bhp @ 6,100rpm | 20.12 bhp @ 7,750 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 27Nm @ 4,000rpm | 19.93 Nm @ 3,750 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual | 5-speed manual |
| Clutch | Wet multi-plate | Slip and assist |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 795 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 150.5 mm | 181 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 181 kg | 160 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 litres | 14 litres |
| Mileage | 34 kmpl | 40 kmpl |
Colors
TVS offers Ronin in 7 color options: Magma Red, Lightning Black, Delta Blue, Stargaze Black, Galactic Grey, Dawn Orange, and Nimbus Grey. Royal Enfield offers Hunter 350 in 10 color options: Rebel Blue, Rebel Red, Rebel Black, Dapper Grey, Dapper Ash, Dapper White, Factory Black, Factory Silver, Dapper O, and Dapper G.
Price and Variants
TVS Motors launched Ronin in three variants in India – SS Single Channel ABS, DS Single-Channel ABS, and TD Dual-Channel ABS. Similarly, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 motorcycle has three variants – Retro Factory, Metro Dapper, and Metro Rebel.
| Prices (Ex-showroom, Delhi) | Hunter 350 variants | Ronin variants |
|---|---|---|
| BASE | Rs. 1,49,900 (Retro Factory Single-Channel ABS) | Rs. 1,49,000 (SS Single-Channel ABS) |
| MID | Rs. 1,63,900 (Metro Dapper Dual-Channel ABS) | Rs. 1,56,500 (DS Single-Channel ABS) |
| TOP | Rs. 1,68,900 (Metro Rebel Dual-Channel ABS) | Rs. 1,68,750 (TD Dual-Channel ABS) |
Verdict
Finally, these bikes are excellent products, each with strength and character. You, as a customer, must choose one product over the other. And in many ways, consider this comparison a tie!
However, regarding performance, ride quality, dynamics, and fuel efficiency, the TVS Ronin has the upper hand. If only it had slightly more aesthetic appeal, this comparison could have well turned in TVS Ronin’s favor.
Regarding aesthetic appeal, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 will make you look back at it more every time you come back from a ride. So, it feels more sportier with its ergonomics; most of all, it’s the more appealing bike.
