Honda unicorn vs royal enfield hunter 350: the ultimate clash of commuter titans

In the realm of Indian motorcycles, two iconic brands stand out: Honda and Royal Enfield. These manufacturers have been duking it out for decades, each offering a distinct range of motorcycles catering to different tastes and preferences. The Honda Unicorn and the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 are two such offerings that have captured the attention of motorcycle enthusiasts. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricacies of these two motorcycles, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimately determining which one reigns supreme.

Design and Aesthetics

The Honda Unicorn exudes a sleek and sporty design, featuring a sharp headlight, muscular fuel tank, and angular body panels. It embraces a modern aesthetic that appeals to a younger audience. In contrast, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 embodies a more retro and rugged appearance, with a round headlight, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and classic styling cues. It evokes nostalgia and caters to riders who appreciate a timeless design.

Engine and Performance

The Honda Unicorn is powered by a 162.7cc single-cylinder engine that delivers 15.91 horsepower and 14.50 Nm of torque. It offers a smooth and refined power delivery, making it ideal for daily commuting and occasional highway cruising. The Royal Enfield Hunter 350, on the other hand, boasts a larger 349cc single-cylinder engine that produces 20.2 horsepower and 27 Nm of torque. It provides a more muscular and engaging ride experience, suitable for both city and highway adventures.

Fuel Efficiency and Mileage

The Honda Unicorn is known for its exceptional fuel efficiency, delivering an impressive mileage of around 60-65 kmpl. This makes it an economical choice for riders who prioritize low running costs. The Royal Enfield Hunter 350, while not as fuel-efficient as the Unicorn, still offers a respectable mileage of around 40-45 kmpl.

Suspension and Handling

The Honda Unicorn features a conventional telescopic front suspension and a monoshock rear suspension. This setup provides a balanced and comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively. The Royal Enfield Hunter 350, on the other hand, employs a 41mm telescopic front fork and a twin-shock rear suspension. This combination offers a slightly stiffer ride but provides excellent stability and handling, especially when navigating rough terrain.

Braking System

Both the Honda Unicorn and the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 come equipped with a combination of disc and drum brakes. The Unicorn features a 240mm front disc and a 130mm rear drum brake, while the Hunter 350 boasts a 300mm front disc and a 270mm rear disc brake. The Hunter 350’s larger disc brakes provide superior stopping power, offering increased confidence and control while riding.

Features and Technology

The Honda Unicorn offers a basic instrument cluster that displays information such as speed, fuel level, and odometer reading. The Royal Enfield Hunter 350, however, comes with a more advanced instrument cluster that includes a digital speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and trip meter. Additionally, the Hunter 350 features a USB charging port and a Bluetooth-enabled Tripper Navigation system, providing added convenience and connectivity.

Price and Value for Money

The Honda Unicorn has a starting price of around ₹90,000, while the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 starts at ₹1.50 lakh. The Unicorn offers excellent value for money, providing a reliable and fuel-efficient motorcycle at an affordable price. The Hunter 350, while more expensive, offers a more powerful engine, better braking system, and advanced features, making it a worthwhile investment for riders who prioritize performance and style.

The Bottom Line: The Verdict

The Honda Unicorn and the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 are both excellent motorcycles that cater to different needs and preferences. The Unicorn is an ideal choice for riders seeking a fuel-efficient, comfortable, and affordable daily commuter. The Hunter 350, on the other hand, is better suited for riders who desire a more powerful, stylish, and adventurous motorcycle. Ultimately, the best choice between the two depends on the individual’s specific requirements and riding style.

What People Want to Know

Q: Which motorcycle is more powerful?
A: The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is more powerful, with a 349cc engine that produces 20.2 horsepower and 27 Nm of torque.

Q: Which motorcycle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Honda Unicorn is more fuel-efficient, delivering a mileage of around 60-65 kmpl.

Q: Which motorcycle has better suspension?
A: The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has a slightly stiffer suspension setup that provides better stability and handling on rough terrain.

Q: Which motorcycle has a better braking system?
A: The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has larger disc brakes that provide superior stopping power.

Q: Which motorcycle is more affordable?
A: The Honda Unicorn is more affordable, with a starting price of around ₹90,000.

Q: Which motorcycle is best for daily commuting?
A: The Honda Unicorn is better suited for daily commuting due to its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride quality.

Q: Which motorcycle is best for long-distance touring?
A: The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is better suited for long-distance touring due to its more powerful engine and comfortable riding position.

Q: Which motorcycle offers more features and technology?
A: The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 offers more advanced features and technology, including a Bluetooth-enabled Tripper Navigation system and a USB charging port.

Q: Which motorcycle is more reliable?
A: Both the Honda Unicorn and the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 are known for their reliability, but the Unicorn has a slightly better track record in this regard.

Q: Which motorcycle has a better resale value?
A: The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is likely to have a better resale value due to its strong brand reputation and classic styling.