Endurance vs. performance: honda hornet 2.0 and royal enfield classic 350 face off
What To Know
- It features a compact headlamp, a sleek fuel tank, and a stepped seat that offers a comfortable riding position.
- The Royal Enfield Classic 350 has a more traditional instrument cluster with an analog speedometer and a small digital display that shows the odometer and trip meter.
- The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is a better option for riders who prefer a classic and timeless design, a relaxed riding experience, and a touch of nostalgia.
The Indian motorcycle market is witnessing an intense rivalry between two iconic brands: Honda and Royal Enfield. The Honda Hornet 2.0 and Royal Enfield Classic 350 are two of the most popular offerings from these manufacturers, each catering to a different set of riders. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare and contrast these two motorcycles to help you make an informed decision on which one suits your needs better.
Design and Styling
The Honda Hornet 2.0 boasts a sporty and aggressive design, characterized by its sharp lines and muscular stance. It features a compact headlamp, a sleek fuel tank, and a stepped seat that offers a comfortable riding position.
In contrast, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 exudes a timeless charm with its retro-inspired design. It retains the classic round headlamp, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and a single-piece seat that evokes nostalgia.
Engine and Performance
The Honda Hornet 2.0 is powered by a 184.4cc, air-cooled engine that produces 17.26 bhp of power and 16.1 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 5-speed gearbox and delivers a smooth and responsive riding experience.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350, on the other hand, features a 346cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that generates 19.1 bhp of power and 28 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox and offers a torquey and relaxed riding experience.
Features and Instrumentation
The Honda Hornet 2.0 comes equipped with a fully digital instrument cluster that provides a wealth of information, including a tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, and trip meter. It also features a hazard switch, engine kill switch, and a pass switch.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 has a more traditional instrument cluster with an analog speedometer and a small digital display that shows the odometer and trip meter. It also includes a fuel gauge, a gear indicator, and a clock.
Ride and Handling
The Honda Hornet 2.0 offers a nimble and sporty ride, thanks to its lightweight chassis and responsive handling. The suspension setup is well-balanced, providing a comfortable ride even on rough roads.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is known for its relaxed and cruiser-like ride. It has a long wheelbase and a plush suspension that absorbs bumps and vibrations effectively. However, it may feel a bit heavy and cumbersome in tight traffic.
Fuel Economy and Mileage
The Honda Hornet 2.0 is more fuel-efficient than the Royal Enfield Classic 350. It delivers an average mileage of around 50-55 kmpl, while the Classic 350 returns around 40-45 kmpl.
Price and Value for Money
The Honda Hornet 2.0 is priced in the range of Rs. 1.26 lakh to Rs. 1.32 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is slightly more expensive, with prices ranging from Rs. 1.85 lakh to Rs. 2.17 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
Which One is Right for You?
The Honda Hornet 2.0 is an ideal choice for riders who seek a sporty and performance-oriented motorcycle. It offers nimble handling, a responsive engine, and a comfortable ride.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is a better option for riders who prefer a classic and timeless design, a relaxed riding experience, and a touch of nostalgia.
Alternatives to Consider
If you are looking for alternatives to the Honda Hornet 2.0 and Royal Enfield Classic 350, here are a few options to consider:
- Bajaj Dominar 250
- TVS Apache RTR 200 4V
- Hero Xtreme 200S
- Yamaha FZ-S V3
- KTM Duke 200
Information You Need to Know
1. Which motorcycle has a more powerful engine?
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 has a more powerful engine with 19.1 bhp compared to the Honda Hornet 2.0’s 17.26 bhp.
2. Which motorcycle is more fuel-efficient?
The Honda Hornet 2.0 is more fuel-efficient, delivering an average mileage of around 50-55 kmpl, while the Classic 350 returns around 40-45 kmpl.
3. Which motorcycle has a better ride quality?
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 has a more relaxed and cruiser-like ride quality, thanks to its plush suspension and long wheelbase.
4. Which motorcycle is more affordable?
The Honda Hornet 2.0 is more affordable than the Royal Enfield Classic 350, with prices starting from Rs. 1.26 lakh compared to Rs. 1.85 lakh for the Classic 350.
5. Which motorcycle is better for long-distance riding?
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is better suited for long-distance riding due to its comfortable seating position, relaxed ride quality, and torquey engine.