The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is a standout cruiser motorcycle that embodies the timeless appeal of Royal Enfield’s heritage while integrating modern technology and design sensibilities. Launched in November 2020, this bike replaced the long-standing Thunderbird 350, marking a significant evolution in the brand’s 350cc lineup. Built on the innovative J-series platform, the Meteor 350 caters to riders seeking a blend of classic styling, comfort, and practicality for both urban commuting and long-distance touring. With its retro charm, refined engine, and contemporary features like the Tripper navigation system, it has quickly become a favorite among enthusiasts in India and beyond. Royal Enfield, a brand synonymous with rugged durability and iconic thump, has crafted the Meteor 350 to appeal to a broad audience, from seasoned riders to newcomers looking for an accessible yet character-rich motorcycle.
The Meteor 350 stands out in the competitive Indian motorcycle market due to its relaxed riding posture, smooth performance, and a design that pays homage to the brand’s legacy while embracing modernity. Available in multiple variants—Fireball, Stellar, Aurora, and Supernova—it offers a range of aesthetic and functional options to suit different tastes and budgets. Priced competitively, the Meteor 350 goes head-to-head with rivals like the Honda CB350, Jawa 42, and Yezdi Roadster, making it a compelling choice in the mid-capacity cruiser segment. This detailed exploration will cover its technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of its features, performance, and competition.
Technical Specifications
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is powered by a refined 349cc engine and equipped with features that enhance its rideability and safety. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, verified for accuracy as of March 31, 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, air-oil cooled, SOHC |
| Displacement | 349 cc |
| Max Power | 20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm |
| Max Torque | 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 72 mm x 85.8 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate |
| Frame | Twin downtube spine chassis |
| Front Suspension | 41 mm telescopic forks, 130 mm travel |
| Rear Suspension | Twin-tube emulsion shocks, 6-step preload adjustable |
| Front Brake | 300 mm disc, twin-piston caliper |
| Rear Brake | 270 mm disc, single-piston caliper |
| ABS | Dual-channel |
| Front Wheel | 19-inch (482.6 mm diameter) |
| Rear Wheel | 17-inch (431.8 mm diameter) |
| Front Tyre | 100/90-19, tubeless |
| Rear Tyre | 140/70-17, tubeless |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 liters |
| Kerb Weight | 191 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm |
| Seat Height | 765 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,400 mm |
| Length x Width x Height | 2,140 mm x 845 mm x 1,140 mm (1,310 mm with windscreen) |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 41.88 kmpl |
| Top Speed | ~114-120 kmph |
| Cooling System | Air-oil cooled |
| Starting System | Electric |
| Instrument Cluster | Semi-digital (analogue speedometer + LCD display) |
These specifications highlight the Meteor 350’s focus on delivering a balanced riding experience, with ample low-end torque, modern braking systems, and a sturdy chassis designed for stability.
Variants
The Meteor 350 is offered in four distinct variants, each catering to different rider preferences with unique styling and features. Below is a table summarizing the variants, their key differences, and ex-showroom prices in Delhi as of March 2025, sourced from BikeDekho and Royal Enfield’s official website.
| Variant | Key Features | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) |
|---|---|---|
| Fireball | Gloss-black side panels, stickered tank badging, single-tone colors | Rs. 2,05,900 |
| Stellar | Color-matched side panels, 3D tank badging, chrome exhaust, cushioned backrest | Rs. 2,15,900 |
| Aurora | Dual-tone colors, chrome mirrors, machined alloy wheels, cushioned backrest | Rs. 2,19,900 |
| Supernova | Dual-tone colors, windscreen, machined alloy wheels, premium backrest, chrome accents | Rs. 2,29,900 |
Each variant builds on the previous one, adding aesthetic enhancements and practical features like the windscreen and pillion backrest, making the Supernova the most premium offering.
Price in Metro Cities
The on-road price of the Meteor 350 varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table detailing the on-road prices for the base Fireball and top-end Supernova variants in key Indian metro cities, based on data from BikeWale as of March 2025.
| City | Fireball On-Road Price | Supernova On-Road Price |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Rs. 2,37,169 | Rs. 2,63,119 |
| Mumbai | Rs. 2,59,930 | Rs. 2,87,591 |
| Bangalore | Rs. 2,59,901 | Rs. 2,88,913 |
| Kolkata | Rs. 2,38,741 | Rs. 2,65,355 |
| Chennai | Rs. 2,47,000 (approx.) | Rs. 2,73,000 (approx.) |
These prices include ex-showroom cost, RTO, and insurance, though additional accessories or extended warranties may increase the final amount. Chennai prices are approximate, based on trends from other cities.
About the Royal Enfield Meteor 350
Design and Styling
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 exudes a classic cruiser vibe with a modern twist. Its teardrop-shaped fuel tank, round headlamp with LED DRLs, and low-slung seat evoke the brand’s heritage, while subtle updates like the circular tail lamp and premium paint finishes add a contemporary edge. The Supernova variant, with its dual-tone colors and chrome accents, stands out as the most visually striking option. The bike’s ergonomic design—featuring a seat height of 765 mm and forward-set footpegs—ensures a relaxed riding posture, ideal for long rides. The build quality is robust, with Royal Enfield focusing on fit and finish, making the Meteor feel premium compared to its predecessor, the Thunderbird.
The instrument cluster is a blend of retro and modern, featuring an analogue speedometer paired with a digital LCD screen displaying essential information like gear position, trip meters, and fuel level. The optional Tripper navigation pod, powered by Google Maps and paired with the Royal Enfield app, is a standout feature, offering turn-by-turn navigation—a rarity in this segment. This combination of classic aesthetics and modern tech makes the Meteor 350 appealing to both traditionalists and tech-savvy riders.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Meteor 350 lies a 349cc single-cylinder, air-oil cooled engine, part of the J-series platform. This engine is a significant departure from the older UCE (Unit Construction Engine) found in the Thunderbird, offering improved refinement and efficiency. Producing 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, it delivers a strong low-end grunt, making it effortless to ride in city traffic without frequent gear shifts. The 5-speed gearbox is smooth, and the inclusion of a counterbalancer reduces vibrations significantly compared to older Royal Enfield models, though some vibes are noticeable at higher revs.
On highways, the Meteor 350 cruises comfortably between 80-100 kmph, with enough power for overtakes. Its top speed hovers around 114-120 kmph, adequate for Indian conditions but not designed for outright performance. The signature Royal Enfield thump remains intact, though it’s more subdued than in older models, striking a balance between character and refinement. Fuel efficiency is a strong suit, with an ARAI-claimed mileage of 41.88 kmpl, and real-world tests from BikeWale and BikeDekho reporting figures between 32-35 kmpl in mixed conditions. Paired with a 15-liter fuel tank, this translates to a range of approximately 470-500 km, making it an excellent touring companion.
Ride and Handling
The Meteor 350’s twin downtube spine chassis provides a stable platform, complemented by a 41 mm telescopic fork with 130 mm travel upfront and twin emulsion shocks with 6-step preload adjustment at the rear. This setup offers a plush ride over most surfaces, though the rear suspension can feel stiff on sharp bumps or potholes, a minor drawback for city commuting. The bike’s 191 kg kerb weight and 1,400 mm wheelbase contribute to its planted feel, especially at highway speeds, while the 170 mm ground clearance ensures it can handle moderate undulations without scraping.
Handling is where the Meteor shines, with a low center of gravity and a 19-inch front, 17-inch rear wheel combination that enhances stability. The tubeless tyres (100/90-19 front, 140/70-17 rear) provide decent grip, and the dual-channel ABS ensures confident braking with a 300 mm front disc and 270 mm rear disc. While it’s not as nimble as lighter bikes like the Hunter 350, the Meteor’s predictable handling makes it easy to flick through corners or navigate traffic, appealing to both novice and experienced riders.
Features and Comfort
Royal Enfield has equipped the Meteor 350 with features that enhance its practicality and comfort. The dual-channel ABS is standard across all variants, a crucial safety addition. The Tripper navigation, though optional on the Fireball variant, is a game-changer for touring enthusiasts, offering seamless navigation without the need for a phone mount. Other conveniences include a USB charging port, Bluetooth connectivity, and a well-padded split seat with an optional cushioned pillion backrest on higher variants, ensuring comfort for both rider and passenger on long rides.
The low 765 mm seat height makes it accessible to riders of varying heights, and the forward footpeg positioning reduces fatigue on extended journeys. The Supernova variant adds a tall windscreen, which deflects wind effectively at highway speeds, though it slightly increases the bike’s height to 1,310 mm. Overall, the Meteor 350 strikes a fine balance between form and function, making it versatile for daily commutes and weekend getaways alike.
Close Competitors
The Meteor 350 operates in a competitive segment, facing off against several capable rivals. Here’s an in-depth comparison with its closest competitors:
- Honda CB350: Priced starting at Rs. 1,99,990 (ex-showroom), the Honda CB350 (H’ness and RS variants) is a direct rival with a 348.36cc engine producing 20.8 bhp and 30 Nm. It offers a smoother, more refined ride and modern features like Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). However, it lacks the Meteor’s cruiser styling and low-end torque character, requiring more gear shifts in city conditions. The CB350’s after-sales network is a plus, though its premium pricing and slightly higher maintenance costs are drawbacks.
- Jawa 42: Starting at Rs. 1,99,142 (ex-showroom), the Jawa 42 boasts a 294cc liquid-cooled engine delivering 27 bhp and 26.84 Nm, offering superior performance. Its retro design rivals the Meteor’s appeal, but its smaller 13.2-liter fuel tank and reported reliability issues put it at a disadvantage for touring. The Jawa’s nimbler handling suits urban riders, but its service network lags behind Royal Enfield’s extensive reach.
- Yezdi Roadster: Priced at Rs. 2,06,142 (ex-showroom), the Yezdi Roadster features a 334cc liquid-cooled engine with 29.1 bhp and 29 Nm, outpacing the Meteor in power. It offers a sportier ride and modern styling, but its 32 kmpl mileage and 12-liter tank limit its range compared to the Meteor’s touring-friendly specs. Yezdi’s service reliability remains a concern, giving Royal Enfield an edge.
- Harley-Davidson X440: Starting at Rs. 2,39,500 (ex-showroom), this premium competitor offers a 440cc engine with 27 bhp and 38 Nm, delivering a punchier performance. However, its higher price and urban-focused design make it less versatile than the Meteor for long-distance cruising. It appeals to a niche audience willing to pay for the Harley badge.
The Meteor 350 excels in comfort, fuel efficiency, and brand reliability, backed by Royal Enfield’s vast service network. While it may not match the outright power of the Yezdi or Harley, its balanced package and accessible pricing make it a standout choice in the cruiser segment.
Pros and Cons
The Meteor 350 has several strengths: its comfortable ergonomics, refined engine, good build quality, and modern features like Tripper navigation. It’s a versatile bike that excels in both city and highway scenarios, with a competitive price point starting at Rs. 2,05,900 (ex-showroom). However, it’s not without flaws. The rear suspension can feel stiff, the clutch pull is slightly heavy, and vibrations creep in at higher revs, which may detract from the experience for some riders.
Final Thoughts
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is a well-rounded motorcycle that successfully bridges the gap between classic cruiser appeal and modern functionality. Its J-series engine delivers a smooth, torquey ride, while features like dual-channel ABS and Tripper navigation enhance its practicality. With four thoughtfully designed variants, it caters to a wide range of riders, from budget-conscious buyers to those seeking a premium touring setup. Priced competitively across metro cities, it offers excellent value, especially when paired with Royal Enfield’s unmatched brand legacy and service support.
In a crowded market, the Meteor 350 holds its own against competitors like the Honda CB350 and Jawa 42, excelling in comfort and touring capability. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Meteor 350 delivers a satisfying experience steeped in Royal Enfield’s iconic character. For riders seeking a blend of style, performance, and reliability, this bike is a worthy contender that lives up to the hype surrounding its launch.
