The modern classic segment has seen a surge of fresh faces in recent years, and two names that immediately stand out are the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and the Triumph Speed T4. Both motorcycles blend nostalgic design with contemporary performance, aiming to deliver an engaging urban riding experience.
But with their latest updates and revised prices, the competition between these two neo-retro roadsters is closer than ever. Let’s break down how they compare in terms of design, features, performance, comfort, handling, and overall value.
Design and Features
Classic Appeal with a Modern Edge
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has always been admired for its compact stance and timeless appeal. Its updated design retains the round LED headlamp, teardrop-shaped 13-litre fuel tank, and a minimalist rear section. It’s clean, purposeful, and exudes the charm that RE riders love.
The Triumph Speed T4, on the other hand, feels slightly more premium in its presentation. With similar round LED lighting, sculpted tank, and brushed stainless-steel exhaust finish, it carries the classic British flair with a sporty edge. The overall proportions make it look a bit larger and more planted than the Hunter, especially with its taller seat and wider stance.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Both motorcycles deliver excellent fit and finish for their respective price brackets. The materials feel sturdy, the paint quality is impressive, and the switchgear is tactile.
However, the Triumph feels slightly more refined in small details like weld joints and panel alignment.
The seat height plays a significant role in comfort. The Hunter’s 790mm saddle is accessible for shorter riders, while the Triumph’s 806mm seat offers a roomier posture for taller individuals. The Hunter’s tighter turning radius makes it more city-friendly, while the Triumph’s broader ergonomics help during longer rides.
Instruments and Tech
Both feature semi-digital instrument clusters. The Hunter’s upper trims include the Tripper Navigation Pod, providing turn-by-turn navigation through the RE mobile app — a handy touch for urban commutes.
The Triumph sticks to a clean, legible setup, offering all essential readouts with simplicity.
Engine and Performance
Specifications Overview
| Specification | Royal Enfield Hunter 350 | Triumph Speed T4 |
| Engine | Single-cylinder, 349cc, air-cooled | Single-cylinder, 398cc, liquid-cooled |
| Power | 20.2hp @ 6100rpm | 31hp @ 7000rpm |
| Torque | 27Nm @ 4000rpm | 36Nm @ 5000rpm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | 6-speed |
| Fuel Efficiency (City/Highway) | 30.6 / 39.8 km/l | 32.1 / 38.8 km/l |
Real-World Performance
The Triumph Speed T4 has a clear edge in outright performance. Its liquid-cooled engine delivers a strong mid-range and smoother top-end, resulting in 0–100 km/h in just 8.08 seconds.
By contrast, the Hunter’s air-cooled 349cc motor completes the sprint in 15.15 seconds, nearly double the time — but that’s only half the story.
The Hunter 350’s charm lies in its character. Its thumping exhaust note, meaty low-end torque, and progressive throttle response make it deeply satisfying for city riding. It feels alive, engaging, and forgiving for new riders.
Meanwhile, the Triumph’s engine feels modern and effortless — ideal for highway cruising and spirited weekend rides. Despite the higher output, it matches the Hunter’s efficiency figures, which is impressive.
Ride, Handling, and Comfort
Suspension Setup
One of the biggest improvements on the updated Hunter 350 is its ride comfort. Royal Enfield has softened the suspension tuning, transforming it from previously harsh to plush and compliant. It now glides over rough city roads without transferring sharp jolts to the rider.
The Triumph Speed T4, though stable, feels slightly firm at low speeds. Over fast bumps or potholes, its suspension tends to rebound quickly, hinting at a slightly underdamped setup. It’s not uncomfortable, but the Hunter edges ahead in absorbing urban imperfections.
Handling Dynamics
Both bikes weigh almost the same — 181kg for the Hunter and 180kg for the Triumph — but the Speed T4 feels noticeably lighter on the move. Its longer 1406mm wheelbase gives better high-speed stability, while the Hunter’s shorter 1370mm base offers agile cornering in tight spaces.
At speeds up to 80 km/h, the Hunter feels delightful, planted, and confident. Beyond 100 km/h, though, it begins to lose steam, whereas the Triumph keeps charging ahead smoothly, maintaining composure even at triple-digit speeds.
Braking Performance
Both bikes deliver similar braking distances on paper — around 16 metres from 60 km/h to 0.
However, the Triumph’s braking setup provides sharper initial bite and superior lever feel, while the Hunter’s front brake feels a bit wooden and requires more effort. The ABS tuning on the Triumph is also more progressive.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
In real-world tests, the Hunter 350 delivers 30–40 km/l, while the Triumph hovers around 32–39 km/l, depending on riding style and conditions.
Maintenance costs are expectedly lower for the Hunter, as parts and service networks are widespread across India. The Triumph, being more performance-oriented and premium, carries slightly higher maintenance bills but offers longer service intervals.
Value and Ownership Experience
| Key Parameter | Royal Enfield Hunter 350 | Triumph Speed T4 |
| Kerb Weight | 181 kg | 180 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 806 mm |
| Fuel Tank | 13 litres | 13 litres |
| Wheelbase | 1370 mm | 1406 mm |
| Price (Ex-Showroom, Delhi) | ₹1.82 lakh | ₹2.03 lakh |
The Hunter scores major points for affordability. It’s ₹21,000 cheaper, has a proven engine, and the service network advantage makes it a safer long-term bet for everyday riders.
The Triumph Speed T4, however, justifies its slightly higher price with superior performance, refinement, and brand value. It feels like a gateway into premium motorcycling without the intimidating size or cost of larger Triumphs.
Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re a rider who prioritizes comfort, ease of use, and city maneuverability, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 remains an excellent choice. It’s friendly, reliable, fuel-efficient, and now better tuned for urban roads. Its updated suspension and improved clutch action make it more refined than ever.
But if you’re seeking stronger performance, premium refinement, and highway stability, the Triumph Speed T4 is the clear winner. Despite being just slightly more expensive, it delivers almost 50% more power, better braking, and a far livelier riding experience.
Ultimately, both motorcycles celebrate the essence of retro-modern motorcycling — one focused on soulful simplicity, the other on precision and performance.
For those upgrading to their first premium bike, the Triumph Speed T4 edges ahead as the more complete package, while the Hunter 350 continues to rule hearts with its timeless Royal Enfield charm.
Conclusion
In this close-fought battle of neo-retro roadsters, both bikes have their loyalists and strengths. The Hunter 350 offers unbeatable accessibility and daily comfort, while the Speed T4 brings international-grade performance and finesse to the table.
Whichever you pick, both represent the best blend of classic design and modern engineering available in India’s mid-range motorcycle market today.
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Royal Enfield Hunter 350 vs Triumph Speed T4 comparison review – Detailed 2025 analysis covering design, performance, mileage, comfort, and price. Find out which neo-retro roadster is worth your money.
