So how would this bike compare to the Classic 350, other than its modern looks with shorter mudguards and different seat? It's basically the same bike, or? Also, Ol'man, because I love your videos and share your eye for details (like the mudguards), if nobody ever told you that you're an inspiration to other bikers as well as kids, especially young boys growing up to become men. Details such as your boots, jacket, and jeans matter, perhaps even what barber you go to ;) You're like my BigJim action-figure when I was 12 - a male *biker* role model. You should understand that you're not only a bike reviewer and tester, you're a trademark - the Ol'biker dude. Like it's november, freezing, what's the temperature where you are at the moment? I see you're wearing gloves when you ride, what brand are they? Are they warm enough? Would you recommend them? How much are they and where can I buy them? It's cold and damp weather, how was your ride? What helmet are you using in this weather? Not the least what boots you're wearing (are they spanish Sendra?), and jacket? Stuff like that matter, letting us in on stuff like that will make your review more immersive ontop of yourself and your awesome biker looks, ofcourse. It's good stuff, enjoy it.
The Hunter has different steering dimensions and smaller wheels so the handling is much sharper (not always a good thing). The Classic has the nicer handling. About a year ago I did a gear review which would cover the brands we already use. We just collaborated with a Spanish brand called Fuel and their will be a video coming up soon. Helmets are Premier helmets from Italy. Much appreciate your comments, thank you kindly 👍🏼
I rode a bit of both the classic and hunter. The classic is more relaxed with the bars closer to your hands so you are more upright, the hunter would need bar risers. The feet are more forward in the classic, but the hunter's more rearward pegs feels better when standing on the pegs for bumps etc., and the bike is lighter, and you get things like gear indicator which don't exist on the dash of the classic. Overall for me, the hunter is the winner. It takes less space in the yard, easier to push around, and also feels more maneuverable if you want to do stunts or something. So hunter is closer to the childish feel of a moped, overall.
@@PahaLukkimy hunter is what i need to get to work etc, it's my jack of all trades, came 'down' from a sv650. Nimble due to 17 inch wheels My hunter is great, it's just fun, the thud is great, easy to get through traffic I want a classic, haven't ridden one as yet. I'm tempted to get one just for the looks. 7:14
A now Indian brand, was an English brand that the Indian subsidiary only survived. Thankfully, from there went on to create some new models, to be fair I'm really tempted to buy some shares in the Indian company, as a consumer i think they are excellent 😊
@@timolanteala-brown9608ye but Regardless of being indian Royal Enfield actually listens to its customers.they take the reviews of indian young riders keenfully and this decades of experience is being transferred to their new line of bikes.and I personally think bike lovers are all same all over the world
People disregard race or ethnicity when it comes to recognizing quality. India has a good reputation for producing great motorcycles given the consumer market in India.
@@kalnwi2023 Adelaide, Australia. When I get an action camera and start my own motorcycle review channel I'll let you know. If the Old Man can do it, well, you never know . . .😀
I've got summat else to add to your campaign - Centre stands on all bikes except maybe sports bikes! They make maintenance so much easier, add another parking option on dodgy surfaces, and when the bike's stored in the garage or shed it's not leaning over, so takes less room. And you can fit more bikes in!
It's an odd paradox that in today's motorcycle market there are more chains and fewer centre stands than ever before, even though everyone knows that chain drive and no centre stand is a hopeless combination.
Hi First of all - I love the channel, well done. I've returned to biking after 13 years and didn't want a speed machine. I was torn between the Scram, Classic 350 and the Hunter. Opted for the Hunter and I am loving it. As for it appealing to the younger generation, I'm 65 so I definitely agree!
Picking up a new Rebel Black Hunter this week, here in Vancouver, BC. Had a deposit on a Triumph Speed 400, but chose this as I'm returning riding after nearly 30 years, and figure this will be good for now. Love the sound!
I have just bought this bike and do agree to your review, your understanding of the machine is accurate. Your ability to say the information in simple words is truly amazing. The roads that you have shown us in this video are breath taking!
I just turned 1000 miles on mine … absolutely love it. Maintenance is super easy, easy to ride. Perfect for country riding and a bit of touring. I’ve installed some Givi panniers and a small wind screen, oh and some bar end mirrors cause I got tired of looking at my shoulders. Can’t beat the price and the gas mileage.
The speedometer is off-center because the navigation tripper is supposed to be mounted on the right of it. It's just that they don't ship them to Europe anymore. And they are doing the same thing to the Meteors now. I hate it, but I hold out hope that I'll get one eventually. That said, this was a lovely video. Always great to see kind words being spoken about the motorcycle I choose for Netherlands riding. Love this little bike to bits!
Great video. I have a hunter. I'm 68 years old 5ft 8. Its just a lovely bike to ride, not fast, I don't need it to be. It suits the back road riding I do. It is incredibly flexible you don't have a real power band, just linear torque that drives you forward. In over 50 years of riding I find this to be one of the nicest bikes I have owned
I own a rebel red Hunter. Lovely for first time riders. But what surprises me is that reviewers hardly ever mention the really stiff ride. I find it to be unnecessarily hard.
Brilliant video, Ol man. I have not heard many bad words about this bike, but you are the first to highlight as far as I know high-speed stability. Thank you for that. I will go and have another test ride. Brilliant value for money!
I test rode a Hunter and Meteor back to back and preferred the Meteor’s riding position. The Hunter felt a little bit more nimble and slightly quicker but only slightly. I went for the Meteor and I’m very happy with it.
Beautiful stylish and wonderful exhaust note. Too small and cramped for me as I am your size (incidentally I always seek out this channel particularly to see what how any particular bike fits you because then I know exactly how it will be for me !) but if it weren't so cramped it would be a great second run around bike. Top job RE.
Great bike, good review! I say that as a very happy owner, 6000 Kms on the clock. I commute on South Bohemian backroads from my village to Budweis city. On A roads it's pretty boring, let alone highways. But on the hilly twisties around here it brings fun into my daily commute.. What I love, besides the retro styling and the sound (!), are the alloy wheels and no chrome whatsoever. So much easier to maintain than chrome and spokes.
Great video, young man. Great bike too. We have it now here in Brazil, was a little bit pricey, but now with the arrival of the Triumph's 400 Speed and Scrambler on next January, the price gone down about 10%, which is nice. It was on my radar before its arrival, due the higher price tag it went off, but now it's on again. But it has a hard battle ahead: the RE Classic 350, witch is easily the most gorgeous classic looking bike of our time, and im not sure i would keep the hunter over the classic. Keep up the great work, you and the "boy". Cheers.
love the humour your getting better at that as you progress, actually had me laughing out loud at a few comments. great informative reviews and more and more entertaining.
After your 2 reviews I'm seriously mulling the purchase of this little RE, which is almost purposely designed for BKK lane splitting, which is (during rush hours) a bit of sensitive matter on my RS. Thanks for your restless work, Ol'Man/Darcy🙏
Good review and I concur on the points you raised. And I will go one step further… being a lover of classic style bikes, and not a young person, I want a bike with twin analogue clocks, Speedo and tach. , the same size and cantered. Cheers and thanks once again for your videos. Dan. ✌️🏍🇨🇦
Nice tight review, thanks for sharing. I’m hankering for more R18 content please sir, can’t keep watching repeats of your previous R18 reviews forever don’t you know. Even though it does help your algorithms, the very least I can do. Heading into winter here so needing a hit now and again whilst my 100 Years edition goes into hibernation; it gonna be a long cruel winter away from my baby. As an owner you can certainly appreciate the separation anxiety, I LOVE RIDING THAT BIKE!!! Best to you and yours, be well.
I really like the 350 royal enfields. If defenitly gonna save money for a bullet or a hunter. Im 32 years old and got my full A licence last year. Im from the netherlands and we have the same system so i was able to get my full A licence without doing a1 and a2. I have bought a racer. But i imidietly saw the drawbacks. Im really looking forward to try a 350 enfield. Much more suited for driving to work. Grest video mr old man!
Thanks for your take on the hunter which basically is an enfield in a sport avatar, i know i requested this from you and I am very happy you reviewed it even though Darcy did that already😊😊.
Dear O'lman Excellent review you have made on Royal Enfield HNTR 350cc a best beautiful motorcycles for all generations.Must own such beautiful motorcycles of Royal Enfield🎉I liked your video
Hi Old Man, can you please add the following to your very worthy mission objectives: 1. Kickstarters (keep electric starters by all means) 2. Proper tool boxes - you know, that you can actually get tools into 3. Proper chain guards - that really protect the chain 4. Front fork gaiters - (not all Royal Enfields have them - and neither do lots of others) 5. Back carriers - such an obvious fitting 6. Crash bars 7. Volt meters Yes, I know that some, but not the first three, of the above items can be fitted, as I had done on my Meteor, but why don't they come as standard? They should! I like your style. Ride on.
Absolutely love my Rebel Blue Hunter 350. Having a center stand is awesome. Especially, when you can pick up a lightly used Hunter for around $3,500 USD. If it lost 30 pounds I would not be too disappointed.
I've had my dapper grey for 10 months now great bike and I'm even younger than you 😂, i agree about the side stand being to long, my town has the driving test centre for the local area, and it's surprising and encouraging to see the numbers of young people on bike's riding round the town training for their test
I got a brand new one in July this year and I love it, own 2 other big bikes and this gives me as much smiles if not more. I'm considering buying a 2nd as they are so cheap to buy. Ride lovely, feel like your in the ride not just a passenger to it. Buy one!!
Looking forward to seeing you review the 2024 Himalayan when you get the chance! Great reviews, and you are a similar size to me which gives me a good perspective on size and ergonomics
As usual, I enjoyed your little quick quips and tongue in cheek references. The bike sounds really good. I test rode the complete RE line up during the most recent Sturgis Rally. I preferred the "Classic" out of all of them. (I'm old, like you) I'm still holding out for a 500 Classic. They could, easily, bore out this 350 and it would be a perfect fit for us fat guys. Sometime, you should introduce us to the Jack Russell that was hanging out in the window.
Everytime the J series lump is put in a different style of small capacity bike it finds a popular market . Be it the Classic for pure retro B road riding or the Meteor for a gentle semi foot foward tourer or this town commuter machine. All have there merits. Even the dearest classic is under 4500. These Hunters are fantasic value. My choice being a traditionalist is the Classic in Red and Chrome but each model has its merits
Ive been riding my hunter for almost a year... love it. Rear shocks can feel a tad stiff at times and she doesnt like hills at 100kph but I am a tall guy....other than that, excellent bike. very easy going.
I suprised with this RE,i took it for a test ride and it was easier and lighter than my Piaggio 125cc,at least for me. The sound and quality is fantastic...
It's a Great looking bike. It's a Great sounding bike. Wonderful styling. Lots of cool features. The 20hp is the only thing that kills it for me... Thank you for the excellent review...
I'm with you on proper mudguards. I have put mudslingers, fender extenders, extra panels on the frame(dont known what they're called so some half arsed old person description will suffice) on my GS. Obviously it will never have an adventure or go anywhere near "off road" unless i fall asleep and go through a hedge (my old man did so its probably in the DNA), but after todays ride it looked like i have dug it out of a bog. Enfield are making some cracking looking bikes. Keep up the good work.👍
I just bought a used Hunter 350 for my 19yr old to learn on. I was delighted to discover what a fun bike it is during the ride home. The Hunter 350 will be my second bike while she is away at college until she passes her test here in the US.
Cracking Video! Great bit of humour in there but you're always right about everything you say. Couldnt agree more with your views. Young people just dont seem interested in riding anymore and most of the people i know here in Australia who ride or are interested in motorcycling are my age ir older and I'm 31. I find its also really difficult to find a classicly styled learner motorcycle from around 3-600cc outside of royal enfield. Classic looks are popular again so it baffles me as to why the major Japanese and European manufacturers havent gotten involved with some reintroductions of bikes that look like the CBs and Zs of old in smaller capacity machines. You basically have Enfield or some point ultra nakeds to choose from. Its nice to see Triumph getting involved finally and very much looking forward to your thoughts on the new 400s
You’re absolutely correct about the mudguards on new bikes. I don’t know how the fad started maybe all of those custom motorcycle shows on the tube but it needs to stop. I bought a new Speedmaster and one of the first mods I did was install a front fender extender from Pyramid plastics. It’s better but I wish Triumph would realize that some of us ride in fair or foul weather.
An Excellent review Sir, As usual I agree with just about everything you say, I own a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, But I have just bought a Royal Enfield Hunter 350 In Rebel Red, And I absolutely love it, I bought the Hunter to ride all year round, whilst mainly riding the Interceptor during the winter, I've been riding motorcycles for many years, These bikes suit my style nowadays, Again, Great video 👍 Cheers Paul Foster 👌
So good. I love your channel, but I fit your usual biker demographic. I'm 65, have some grey in my beard, but I'm also bald, so I'm not sure if I'd be grey! Current bikes are Scram 411 and the love of my life, my chrome Classic 500, affectionately called Maude. Keep doing your stuff, guys, you are a great father and son team!
Not a bad presentation from a bloke what drives on the bloody wrong side of the road lol. Dwight. Glendale, Arizona... In the colonies USA... From one old geezer to another... Great stuff, Thanks for posting...
Must admit the bike looks much nicer in the flesh than the press photos, love these bikes did 215 miles on my 350 classic last Saturday and really enjoyed it, ive fitted the hitchcocks camshaft and it gives much better mid range,ideal for the Yorkshire Dale's, ATB Chris
I rode many bikes over the years. To be honest, most of the time i know what to expect before i even turn the key for the first time. RE 350 engine however suprised me. It’s almost like a small stationary motor put in a motorcycle. The torque „curve“ is essentially a straight line. And you feel that! My testride on the Hunter was a unique experience. That is hard to find in the motorcycle market nowadays. I later bought the Interceptor. The need for a bit more power was to strong in me.
I see a lot of people riding their motorcycles between cars. It's illegal in a lot of states here in America. And it's for good reason. If you're traveling between cars and someone opens up their door (they have to throw up etc.) then you're likely to be injured. I hope people who ride bikes will always ride very defensively and protect themselves as much as possible. I've been riding bikes for 56 years. I've been fortunate to be safe. Enjoy your reviews.
i am 57 and thinking about getting a hunter , have a 650 sports bike and its all about going from a to b as quick as i can , so i hope with the 350 hunter i will start enjoying the journey rather than flat out pace
thank you, especially for the handling segment. We don't have a city nearby, thank God, and no "country roads" that aren't driven at 50-70mph here, along with the ever present issue of wildlife-deer, elk, bear and coyotes or wolves zipping into the road in front of you. But I truly love the classics, so will look at the better handling 350.
It seems in the UK the age group this bike attracts is much higher than expected, you can see this from the various forums. I test rode the classic and Hunter back to back having never ridden an Enfield single previously. I ordered the Hunter on the spot after test riding it's absolutely brilliant, so smooth but characterful and is perfect company for my RD 400. I now have one bike that has little power above 6000 rpm and a bike that has little power below 6000 rpm - all bases covered 🙂
it is what it is,and it does what it does,plain and simple,always works,i rode a grey way back,very nice,and a lots of old people ride them as well,me to.
I'm 65 and have ridden since I was 12. Sport, touring, adventure bikes etc. I'm ready to get a light simple bike for back road putting. Here in the states, bigger is better...not. I'm really leaning( pun intended) towards the RE 350 hunter. Thanks for the review from one white hair to another😊
Make a lovely noise. Now you mention it though the built in mudguard extender seems a bit daft over just putting the right sized mudguard on it in the first place. Tiny mudguards have their place and that is on cafe racers and bobbers. On anything else I'd rather keep my bike clean and my feet dry.
Loved the review, liked the humour. One thing that erks me on this bike and I do like the bike …. Would have had one but I’m too old and would be grey if I had hair is the routing of the clutch cable … why not route it properly instead they leave it dangling !! Keep em coming
Im 24, I bought my first bike, a DRZ 400 (i may get a guzzi v7 or a t100 or even a z900rs in the future) after watching alot of videos on motorcycling, your videos included. Honestly I'm just looking for a little adventure in my life, its boring to be at the computer all day or just work or head to school, its not a fufilling life. So far I plan to start riding in march of next year. Ive been learning basic techniques but I just want to make sure im skilled enough to handle whatever areas I plan to take the bike.
loved the short & informative review. there should be an additional Like button for "not liking the off center dial". it gives such a sore eye. Aesthetics are important. 💯
I'm 26 and I've been riding for 7 years. (Officially. My dad used to let me take his Aprilia pegaso up and down small country roads close to where we used to go on vacation as soon as I could somewhat reach my feet down) I got through all the license shenanigans of the EU system (I'm from Greece) and have to say, it still makes no sense to this day. I'm no speed freak- I love riding because of how it feels. I changed quite a few bikes- A 125 cross, a Honda CBR250, a Duke 390 and a moto guzzi V7 was my last bike. Throughout the years I didn't pick up an RE purely because of monetary constraints, because when I had enough money after working my ass off through the summer season, I went for the full class up. However, when I return from my studies abroad, I plan on getting one for commuting. I have a two bike plan- and RE is crushing the market for small displacement of gorgeous classic bikes, however my issue with the hunter is, frankly, it's too in-between Not as classic and classy as the Classic 350, not as modern and energetic as something like say a Scrambler 400 or XT (I'll admit, even though I'm into classic bikes, I have a soft spot for screamer engines- and the sound of the Kawasaki Zx4RR has won me over, inl4s sound great )
After 40+ years on SOTA sports/superbikes I now find there's something very appealing about back to basics bikes like this and other modern classics. Maybe not the visceral experience of a 200+bhp missile but still a very satisfying ride in their right environment. The classic good looks are a bonus (jeez...I never thought I'd hear myself say that a few years ago!😂). As for the RE specifically, I agree the off centre clock looks daft....WHY? At least stick it in the centre or better still..twin clocks.👍 Decent mudguards are as essential as decent riding gear IMO. With more and more tech finding it's way onto more upmarket offerings, multiple riding modes, dynamic traction control, "intelligent" ABS, engine braking control, radar assisted cruise control, dynamic on the fly active suspension adjustment, lane change warning, hill hold/start etc....etc, there's a lot to be said for good old fashioned "bare bones" motorcycles, or maybe I'm just getting old!😂 Yes, I too have a grey beard!😀👍
I ride a 500 classic just turned 60 ,my son's 30 and 33 ride a classic 350 signals and 650 conti GT ,the cost to pass their test this year about £1000 a pop and was a long legged affair,we have some great around the South downs and I did the Dragon in Feb.
In India, it truly has brought in a new crowd of riders. Not a big fan of it, RE could have been better with their build quality, comparing it to the Triumph speed 400. Hope you guys get the triumph soon, it truly is a work of art. Every nut and bolt screams quality. Even the new Himalayan, the quality of the nuts and bolts look a bit shabby. Triumph truly has changed my mindset towards affordable motorcycles.
It is a handsome lil bike i must admit, agree about the offset clock, i think it was meant to have the little tripper thing too but personally i would be happy with just having the central mount. Mpg is really bloody good it has to be said.
This is a great bike. The engine sounds fantastic. Great styling. 3,899 GBP is cheap. I love the off-centre dial. Single dials should all be like this. Great wheels. Overall, great styling. I probably prefer the Classic Signals. I wouldn't buy either. Nick J
Going to Dover from London over xmas, can't wait to the long slope, i rekon could hit 80mph + get 5th gear at max power? 16 tooth front sprocket gives 6.67% gearing
I have recently bought a rebel red hunter ,my inital thoughts are it is a generally well sorted machine , good torque , well balanced , sort of like a modern day bsa starfire without the agricultural feel , because it is so good in many ways the obvious minor issues stand out which can be rectified, these appear to me as lever reach is too far with gloves on ,i have yet to fit some adjustable levers , handle bar risers required to improve bar positioning, rear shocks are way too stiff even at their lowest setting and could be inch or so shorter, you can hear the induction box is strangling the intake as you open the throttle ,side stand is a bit too long ,i believe Hitchcocks is working on a after market rev counter for this model if you you have a hankering to fill the offset of the speedo ,all of the above can be rectified if you choose to, so although not perfect with a bit of time and money you can have the ideal modern retro, having owned many modern and classic bikes and and scooters none are perfect its always a compromise its up to the owner to set it up to how you want it .
It should have a tacho to balance the speedo,it doesnt matter that if might not need one it would be a lot more use than the optional trip thing that shows a different time to the speedo and which i suspect no one uses.
I'm not much younger than yourself but the Hunter is top of my list as a first "bigger" bike once I get my full license (I'm a very very late starter😅). You should experiment with mudguards, especially the front and test to see how big it needs to be to satisfy your requirements. Undoubtedly the decision is down to aesthetics over practically, not sure a full guard on this bike would suit it's intended younger market. I don't know how the speedometer is mounted but perhaps a discrete bracket could be made to centre it if cable length allows, obviously it's off centre for the tripper device option, but I'd rather just have an analogue clock.
Given we know that the left side speedo is because of the tripper pod, which is not standard on the hunter, but how hard would it be to make a bracket for it which mounts on both sides where the tripper would go and centralise the clock 🤷🏻♂️ just a thought
I think for a cheap, first off bike thats aimed at younger people, or people of smaller stature, its great. Its not trying to be something it isnt, the price point reflects whatever small imperfections it has. I own the classic 350 (like yourself) so the difference between them id say is night and day, despite the shared engine. Personally I wouldn’t purchase the hunter, but I think the RE is doing a good job of covering all areas of the market.
It really is a great looking bike, I'm a much younger rider "much like your self" I grew up in the days of Yamaha RD's, Triples and so on and I kind of see these bikes as those bikes, Less expensive bikes and are great entry level and having the fun of modifying the air box, gutting the exhaust. I think it was much easier to do this mods 40 , 50 years and longer ago but it would be fun if there was lots of after market accessories and mods available like the 650's, things such as the booster plug, K&N air filter, just a way for someone to make the bike their own.
So how would this bike compare to the Classic 350, other than its modern looks with shorter mudguards and different seat? It's basically the same bike, or?
Also, Ol'man, because I love your videos and share your eye for details (like the mudguards), if nobody ever told you that you're an inspiration to other bikers as well as kids, especially young boys growing up to become men. Details such as your boots, jacket, and jeans matter, perhaps even what barber you go to ;) You're like my BigJim action-figure when I was 12 - a male *biker* role model. You should understand that you're not only a bike reviewer and tester, you're a trademark - the Ol'biker dude.
Like it's november, freezing, what's the temperature where you are at the moment? I see you're wearing gloves when you ride, what brand are they? Are they warm enough? Would you recommend them? How much are they and where can I buy them? It's cold and damp weather, how was your ride? What helmet are you using in this weather? Not the least what boots you're wearing (are they spanish Sendra?), and jacket? Stuff like that matter, letting us in on stuff like that will make your review more immersive ontop of yourself and your awesome biker looks, ofcourse. It's good stuff, enjoy it.
The Hunter has different steering dimensions and smaller wheels so the handling is much sharper (not always a good thing). The Classic has the nicer handling.
About a year ago I did a gear review which would cover the brands we already use. We just collaborated with a Spanish brand called Fuel and their will be a video coming up soon.
Helmets are Premier helmets from Italy.
Much appreciate your comments, thank you kindly 👍🏼
Well then, I look forward to it. Thanks!@@MrDarcy-OlMan
I rode a bit of both the classic and hunter. The classic is more relaxed with the bars closer to your hands so you are more upright, the hunter would need bar risers. The feet are more forward in the classic, but the hunter's more rearward pegs feels better when standing on the pegs for bumps etc., and the bike is lighter, and you get things like gear indicator which don't exist on the dash of the classic. Overall for me, the hunter is the winner. It takes less space in the yard, easier to push around, and also feels more maneuverable if you want to do stunts or something. So hunter is closer to the childish feel of a moped, overall.
With a fuelx and dna air filter kit not much other than turning circle, the classic is 20kg heavier.
@@PahaLukkimy hunter is what i need to get to work etc, it's my jack of all trades, came 'down' from a sv650.
Nimble due to 17 inch wheels
My hunter is great, it's just fun,
the thud is great, easy to get through traffic
I want a classic, haven't ridden one as yet.
I'm tempted to get one just for the looks. 7:14
Moments like this make me proud when an Indian Motorcycle brand is being loved by so many people outside india .
A now Indian brand, was an English brand that the Indian subsidiary only survived. Thankfully, from there went on to create some new models, to be fair I'm really tempted to buy some shares in the Indian company, as a consumer i think they are excellent 😊
True@@timolanteala-brown9608
@@timolanteala-brown9608i too really love their bikes ❤
@@timolanteala-brown9608ye but Regardless of being indian Royal Enfield actually listens to its customers.they take the reviews of indian young riders keenfully and this decades of experience is being transferred to their new line of bikes.and I personally think bike lovers are all same all over the world
People disregard race or ethnicity when it comes to recognizing quality. India has a good reputation for producing great motorcycles given the consumer market in India.
Love my Hunter. Great little commuter. Agree with everything you said. I'm 5'10" and it fits me perfectly. I'm 60, but this bike makes me cool. 😎👍😀
Where you at and can you do some videos , we wanna see geezers riding ( I can say that cause i'm a geezer too 😏).
@@kalnwi2023 Adelaide, Australia. When I get an action camera and start my own motorcycle review channel I'll let you know. If the Old Man can do it, well, you never know . . .😀
@@skotty1962it's been 5 months, where's your videos man.
".... I'm the old man, Darcy is my son"
"they're aiming this very much at the younger generation, much like myself" lmao 😂😂😂😂
loved the review ❤
Based on a video from the other day, the Ol’ Man is only 21 1/2. Ha!
The exhaust sound while you were riding is awesome ❤
Thank you 😊
It sounds better in person in my opinion ! The mic seemed to not pick up the body of the exhaust note
@@Warkid1993 Listening to any bike in person is amazing experience but old man did a great job here 👍
I find it much too loud; this is the only reason why I won't buy this nice bike.
I've got summat else to add to your campaign - Centre stands on all bikes except maybe sports bikes! They make maintenance so much easier, add another parking option on dodgy surfaces, and when the bike's stored in the garage or shed it's not leaning over, so takes less room. And you can fit more bikes in!
Couldn't agree more. My Hyosung gt 250, otherwise excellent bike, doesn't have centre stand and it is so impractical in many occasions...
It's an odd paradox that in today's motorcycle market there are more chains and fewer centre stands than ever before, even though everyone knows that chain drive and no centre stand is a hopeless combination.
Hi
First of all - I love the channel, well done. I've returned to biking after 13 years and didn't want a speed machine. I was torn between the Scram, Classic 350 and the Hunter. Opted for the Hunter and I am loving it. As for it appealing to the younger generation, I'm 65 so I definitely agree!
65 is still younger generation mate, guarantee you're better off than some of us 😅
As he said ,when they remove helmets it's gray.love your energy to keep riding,ride till die
As he said ,when they remove helmets it's gray.love your energy to keep riding,ride till die
Watching father and son working together in today's world is blessing.
I appreciate your efforts as always ❤
Picking up a new Rebel Black Hunter this week, here in Vancouver, BC. Had a deposit on a Triumph Speed 400, but chose this as I'm returning riding after nearly 30 years, and figure this will be good for now. Love the sound!
After 3300 miles in 4 months on my Classic, they really are a great value, and I call mine "Zenfield" it's so laidback.
Great to hear 👍🏼
Zenfield….. love it
I have just bought this bike and do agree to your review, your understanding of the machine is accurate. Your ability to say the information in simple words is truly amazing. The roads that you have shown us in this video are breath taking!
I just turned 1000 miles on mine … absolutely love it. Maintenance is super easy, easy to ride. Perfect for country riding and a bit of touring. I’ve installed some Givi panniers and a small wind screen, oh and some bar end mirrors cause I got tired of looking at my shoulders. Can’t beat the price and the gas mileage.
The speedometer is off-center because the navigation tripper is supposed to be mounted on the right of it. It's just that they don't ship them to Europe anymore. And they are doing the same thing to the Meteors now. I hate it, but I hold out hope that I'll get one eventually. That said, this was a lovely video. Always great to see kind words being spoken about the motorcycle I choose for Netherlands riding. Love this little bike to bits!
Great video. I have a hunter. I'm 68 years old 5ft 8. Its just a lovely bike to ride, not fast, I don't need it to be. It suits the back road riding I do. It is incredibly flexible you don't have a real power band, just linear torque that drives you forward. In over 50 years of riding I find this to be one of the nicest bikes I have owned
I also forgot to say I can do all the maintenance on it myself, a very simple bike to look after.
I own a rebel red Hunter. Lovely for first time riders. But what surprises me is that reviewers hardly ever mention the really stiff ride. I find it to be unnecessarily hard.
Brilliant video, Ol man. I have not heard many bad words about this bike, but you are the first to highlight as far as I know high-speed stability. Thank you for that. I will go and have another test ride. Brilliant value for money!
I test rode a Hunter and Meteor back to back and preferred the Meteor’s riding position. The Hunter felt a little bit more nimble and slightly quicker but only slightly. I went for the Meteor and I’m very happy with it.
That's what I'm considering one or the other , think you can do more with the Meteor as regards accessories. 🤔
@@carlarthur4442 yes I think there are more accessories as it’s been out longer and is more suited to longer rides and touring.
Beautiful stylish and wonderful exhaust note. Too small and cramped for me as I am your size (incidentally I always seek out this channel particularly to see what how any particular bike fits you because then I know exactly how it will be for me !) but if it weren't so cramped it would be a great second run around bike. Top job RE.
Great bike, good review!
I say that as a very happy owner, 6000 Kms on the clock. I commute on South Bohemian backroads from my village to Budweis city. On A roads it's pretty boring, let alone highways. But on the hilly twisties around here it brings fun into my daily commute..
What I love, besides the retro styling and the sound (!), are the alloy wheels and no chrome whatsoever. So much easier to maintain than chrome and spokes.
Great to hear 👍🏼
Love the red black colour the most..
*BARRY*
Im a big fan of your reviews, both dad and son doing a great job, keep doing the great work.. Cheers❤😇
Great video, young man. Great bike too. We have it now here in Brazil, was a little bit pricey, but now with the arrival of the Triumph's 400 Speed and Scrambler on next January, the price gone down about 10%, which is nice. It was on my radar before its arrival, due the higher price tag it went off, but now it's on again. But it has a hard battle ahead: the RE Classic 350, witch is easily the most gorgeous classic looking bike of our time, and im not sure i would keep the hunter over the classic. Keep up the great work, you and the "boy". Cheers.
My son bought a red Hunter looks amazing
Have got it for 6 months while he is away
Fun bike to ride and the review is spot on
love the humour your getting better at that as you progress, actually had me laughing out loud at a few comments. great informative reviews and more and more entertaining.
Glad you enjoyed it 👍🏼
After your 2 reviews I'm seriously mulling the purchase of this little RE, which is almost purposely designed for BKK lane splitting, which is (during rush hours) a bit of sensitive matter on my RS.
Thanks for your restless work, Ol'Man/Darcy🙏
Brilliant video. Love the narrative. As a slightly grumpy old man myself, I totally empathise! 🙂
Good review and I concur on the points you raised. And I will go one step further… being a lover of classic style bikes, and not a young person, I want a bike with twin analogue clocks, Speedo and tach. , the same size and cantered. Cheers and thanks once again for your videos. Dan. ✌️🏍🇨🇦
Nice tight review, thanks for sharing. I’m hankering for more R18 content please sir, can’t keep watching repeats of your previous R18 reviews forever don’t you know. Even though it does help your algorithms, the very least I can do. Heading into winter here so needing a hit now and again whilst my 100 Years edition goes into hibernation; it gonna be a long cruel winter away from my baby. As an owner you can certainly appreciate the separation anxiety, I LOVE RIDING THAT BIKE!!! Best to you and yours, be well.
That is great to hear 👍🏼
Good to see young man riding hunter 350😄
I really like the 350 royal enfields. If defenitly gonna save money for a bullet or a hunter. Im 32 years old and got my full A licence last year. Im from the netherlands and we have the same system so i was able to get my full A licence without doing a1 and a2. I have bought a racer. But i imidietly saw the drawbacks. Im really looking forward to try a 350 enfield. Much more suited for driving to work. Grest video mr old man!
Brilliant review, the Hunter really is a marvellous all round bike, yes it has it's limitations but it has oodles of charm 👍
Thanks for your take on the hunter which basically is an enfield in a sport avatar, i know i requested this from you and I am very happy you reviewed it even though Darcy did that already😊😊.
Dear O'lman Excellent review you have made on Royal Enfield HNTR 350cc a best beautiful motorcycles for all generations.Must own such beautiful motorcycles of Royal Enfield🎉I liked your video
Hi Old Man, can you please add the following to your very worthy mission objectives:
1. Kickstarters (keep electric starters by all means)
2. Proper tool boxes - you know, that you can actually get tools into
3. Proper chain guards - that really protect the chain
4. Front fork gaiters - (not all Royal Enfields have them - and neither do lots of others)
5. Back carriers - such an obvious fitting
6. Crash bars
7. Volt meters
Yes, I know that some, but not the first three, of the above items can be fitted, as I had done on my Meteor, but why don't they come as standard? They should!
I like your style. Ride on.
Great points and thanks 😊
Absolutely love my Rebel Blue Hunter 350. Having a center stand is awesome. Especially, when you can pick up a lightly used Hunter for around $3,500 USD. If it lost 30 pounds I would not be too disappointed.
I've had my dapper grey for 10 months now great bike and I'm even younger than you 😂, i agree about the side stand being to long, my town has the driving test centre for the local area, and it's surprising and encouraging to see the numbers of young people on bike's riding round the town training for their test
That is good to hear 👍🏼
Do you think the price of cars is forcing younger people on to motorcycles?
I got a brand new one in July this year and I love it, own 2 other big bikes and this gives me as much smiles if not more. I'm considering buying a 2nd as they are so cheap to buy. Ride lovely, feel like your in the ride not just a passenger to it. Buy one!!
Looking forward to seeing you review the 2024 Himalayan when you get the chance!
Great reviews, and you are a similar size to me which gives me a good perspective on size and ergonomics
As usual, I enjoyed your little quick quips and tongue in cheek references. The bike sounds really good. I test rode the complete RE line up during the most recent Sturgis Rally. I preferred the "Classic" out of all of them. (I'm old, like you) I'm still holding out for a 500 Classic. They could, easily, bore out this 350 and it would be a perfect fit for us fat guys. Sometime, you should introduce us to the Jack Russell that was hanging out in the window.
Everytime the J series lump is put in a different style of small capacity bike it finds a popular market .
Be it the Classic for pure retro B road riding or the Meteor for a gentle semi foot foward tourer or this town commuter machine.
All have there merits.
Even the dearest classic is under 4500.
These Hunters are fantasic value.
My choice being a traditionalist is the Classic in Red and Chrome but each model has its merits
💯
Ive been riding my hunter for almost a year... love it. Rear shocks can feel a tad stiff at times and she doesnt like hills at 100kph but I am a tall guy....other than that, excellent bike. very easy going.
I suprised with this RE,i took it for a test ride and it was easier and lighter than my Piaggio 125cc,at least for me. The sound and quality is fantastic...
Another great vid! Cheers
Love the sense of humour. Regards from SA
It's a Great looking bike. It's a Great sounding bike. Wonderful styling. Lots of cool features. The 20hp is the only thing that kills it for me... Thank you for the excellent review...
one that hates off-center dials!!! you have my respect.
I'm with you on proper mudguards. I have put mudslingers, fender extenders, extra panels on the frame(dont known what they're called so some half arsed old person description will suffice) on my GS. Obviously it will never have an adventure or go anywhere near "off road" unless i fall asleep and go through a hedge (my old man did so its probably in the DNA), but after todays ride it looked like i have dug it out of a bog. Enfield are making some cracking looking bikes. Keep up the good work.👍
I just bought a used Hunter 350 for my 19yr old to learn on.
I was delighted to discover what a fun bike it is during the ride home.
The Hunter 350 will be my second bike while she is away at college until she passes her test here in the US.
Cracking Video! Great bit of humour in there but you're always right about everything you say. Couldnt agree more with your views. Young people just dont seem interested in riding anymore and most of the people i know here in Australia who ride or are interested in motorcycling are my age ir older and I'm 31. I find its also really difficult to find a classicly styled learner motorcycle from around 3-600cc outside of royal enfield. Classic looks are popular again so it baffles me as to why the major Japanese and European manufacturers havent gotten involved with some reintroductions of bikes that look like the CBs and Zs of old in smaller capacity machines. You basically have Enfield or some point ultra nakeds to choose from. Its nice to see Triumph getting involved finally and very much looking forward to your thoughts on the new 400s
You’re absolutely correct about the mudguards on new bikes. I don’t know how the fad started maybe all of those custom motorcycle shows on the tube but it needs to stop. I bought a new Speedmaster and one of the first mods I did was install a front fender extender from Pyramid plastics. It’s better but I wish Triumph would realize that some of us ride in fair or foul weather.
An Excellent review Sir,
As usual I agree with just about everything you say,
I own a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650,
But I have just bought a Royal Enfield Hunter 350
In Rebel Red,
And I absolutely love it,
I bought the Hunter to ride all year round, whilst mainly riding the Interceptor during the winter,
I've been riding motorcycles for many years,
These bikes suit my style nowadays,
Again,
Great video 👍
Cheers Paul Foster 👌
I’m with you, proper mudguards, clocks in the middle and a bloody main stand, all my classics have these things, and so should new retro classics.
That enfield sounds superb, great bike.
Here I am again, such a great channel, you do realize the government is against all people, not just motorbike riders.
A fair dinkum, no bullshit review. You did a good job. Thankyou. Am considering this bike. Greetings from Melbourne. Aust. Am a short arse 5'5"
So good. I love your channel, but I fit your usual biker demographic. I'm 65, have some grey in my beard, but I'm also bald, so I'm not sure if I'd be grey! Current bikes are Scram 411 and the love of my life, my chrome Classic 500, affectionately called Maude. Keep doing your stuff, guys, you are a great father and son team!
Not a bad presentation from a bloke what drives on the bloody wrong side of the road lol. Dwight. Glendale, Arizona... In the colonies USA... From one old geezer to another... Great stuff, Thanks for posting...
Must admit the bike looks much nicer in the flesh than the press photos, love these bikes did 215 miles on my 350 classic last Saturday and really enjoyed it, ive fitted the hitchcocks camshaft and it gives much better mid range,ideal for the Yorkshire Dale's, ATB Chris
I don't mind off center consoles, i kind of like them 😅, but agree with the proper mudguard
Looks like a really fun and quite nice-looking motorbike.
I rode many bikes over the years.
To be honest, most of the time i know what to expect before i even turn the key for the first time.
RE 350 engine however suprised me. It’s almost like a small stationary motor put in a motorcycle.
The torque „curve“ is essentially a straight line. And you feel that!
My testride on the Hunter was a unique experience.
That is hard to find in the motorcycle market nowadays.
I later bought the Interceptor.
The need for a bit more power was to strong in me.
I see a lot of people riding their motorcycles between cars. It's illegal in a lot of states here in America. And it's for good reason. If you're traveling between cars and someone opens up their door (they have to throw up etc.) then you're likely to be injured. I hope people who ride bikes will always ride very defensively and protect themselves as much as possible. I've been riding bikes for 56 years. I've been fortunate to be safe. Enjoy your reviews.
i am 57 and thinking about getting a hunter , have a 650 sports bike and its all about going from a to b as quick as i can , so i hope with the 350 hunter i will start enjoying the journey rather than flat out pace
I like the off the center dial on bikes
You stand alone there 👍🏼
I like to immigrate to wherever you live. Such a nice road to ride a bike on
thank you, especially for the handling segment. We don't have a city nearby, thank God, and no "country roads" that aren't driven at 50-70mph here, along with the ever present issue of wildlife-deer, elk, bear and coyotes or wolves zipping into the road in front of you. But I truly love the classics, so will look at the better handling 350.
It seems in the UK the age group this bike attracts is much higher than expected, you can see this from the various forums. I test rode the classic and Hunter back to back having never ridden an Enfield single previously. I ordered the Hunter on the spot after test riding it's absolutely brilliant, so smooth but characterful and is perfect company for my RD 400. I now have one bike that has little power above 6000 rpm and a bike that has little power below 6000 rpm - all bases covered 🙂
RD400...nice! I owned a 1975 RD350...it was a screamer.
it is what it is,and it does what it does,plain and simple,always works,i rode a grey way back,very nice,and a lots of old people ride them as well,me to.
Awesome 😊
Brilliant machine. I like how it’s smaller, like the bikes of yore. Great fuel economy too.
I'm 65 and have ridden since I was 12. Sport, touring, adventure bikes etc. I'm ready to get a light simple bike for back road putting. Here in the states, bigger is better...not. I'm really leaning( pun intended) towards the RE 350 hunter. Thanks for the review from one white hair to another😊
Make a lovely noise. Now you mention it though the built in mudguard extender seems a bit daft over just putting the right sized mudguard on it in the first place. Tiny mudguards have their place and that is on cafe racers and bobbers. On anything else I'd rather keep my bike clean and my feet dry.
I came across some of ur videos..U r doing excellent job..bravo..hope one day u can test voge 525 cu,so outstanding bike..
Thank you 😊
Loved the review, liked the humour. One thing that erks me on this bike and I do like the bike …. Would have had one but I’m too old and would be grey if I had hair is the routing of the clutch cable … why not route it properly instead they leave it dangling !! Keep em coming
Oh man, I love mine!
Great to hear 👍🏼
Im 24, I bought my first bike, a DRZ 400 (i may get a guzzi v7 or a t100 or even a z900rs in the future) after watching alot of videos on motorcycling, your videos included. Honestly I'm just looking for a little adventure in my life, its boring to be at the computer all day or just work or head to school, its not a fufilling life.
So far I plan to start riding in march of next year. Ive been learning basic techniques but I just want to make sure im skilled enough to handle whatever areas I plan to take the bike.
Favourite video 🎉🎉I am from India
Completely agree with your thoughts re: the speedo, apart from that, I find the bike very pleasing to the eye, sounds nice too.
loved the short & informative review. there should be an additional Like button for "not liking the off center dial". it gives such a sore eye. Aesthetics are important. 💯
Agree with you on aesthetics 💯
I'm 26 and I've been riding for 7 years. (Officially. My dad used to let me take his Aprilia pegaso up and down small country roads close to where we used to go on vacation as soon as I could somewhat reach my feet down)
I got through all the license shenanigans of the EU system (I'm from Greece) and have to say, it still makes no sense to this day.
I'm no speed freak- I love riding because of how it feels. I changed quite a few bikes- A 125 cross, a Honda CBR250, a Duke 390 and a moto guzzi V7 was my last bike.
Throughout the years I didn't pick up an RE purely because of monetary constraints, because when I had enough money after working my ass off through the summer season, I went for the full class up.
However, when I return from my studies abroad, I plan on getting one for commuting.
I have a two bike plan- and RE is crushing the market for small displacement of gorgeous classic bikes, however my issue with the hunter is, frankly, it's too in-between
Not as classic and classy as the Classic 350, not as modern and energetic as something like say a Scrambler 400 or XT
(I'll admit, even though I'm into classic bikes, I have a soft spot for screamer engines- and the sound of the Kawasaki Zx4RR has won me over, inl4s sound great )
Man I love this channel and the reviews. I’m an old man too, and I can connect with the old man easily. Great stuff.
I like the pop pop 👍.
There is a dog peeking through the window
After 40+ years on SOTA sports/superbikes I now find there's something very appealing about back to basics bikes like this and other modern classics. Maybe not the visceral experience of a 200+bhp missile but still a very satisfying ride in their right environment. The classic good looks are a bonus (jeez...I never thought I'd hear myself say that a few years ago!😂).
As for the RE specifically, I agree the off centre clock looks daft....WHY? At least stick it in the centre or better still..twin clocks.👍 Decent mudguards are as essential as decent riding gear IMO. With more and more tech finding it's way onto more upmarket offerings, multiple riding modes, dynamic traction control, "intelligent" ABS, engine braking control, radar assisted cruise control, dynamic on the fly active suspension adjustment, lane change warning, hill hold/start etc....etc, there's a lot to be said for good old fashioned "bare bones" motorcycles, or maybe I'm just getting old!😂 Yes, I too have a grey beard!😀👍
I ride a 500 classic just turned 60 ,my son's 30 and 33 ride a classic 350 signals and 650 conti GT ,the cost to pass their test this year about £1000 a pop and was a long legged affair,we have some great around the South downs and I did the Dragon in Feb.
Great to hear that your sons made it through the expensive testing and can now enjoy riding 👍🏼
I'm pretty much stuck with putting fender extenders and rear huggers on everything but my Royal Enfield 500.
So you ARE father and son!
I always wondered, and it makes me happy to hear that you actually are.
Yes we are father and son 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Just how old is The Ol' Man?
@@slimshady4life1995 I am not that Old 😂😂
In India, it truly has brought in a new crowd of riders. Not a big fan of it, RE could have been better with their build quality, comparing it to the Triumph speed 400. Hope you guys get the triumph soon, it truly is a work of art. Every nut and bolt screams quality. Even the new Himalayan, the quality of the nuts and bolts look a bit shabby. Triumph truly has changed my mindset towards affordable motorcycles.
I'm with you if it's only have one clock put it in the middle that would bother me as well.😀
Yes
I also don’t see any good reason not to put it in the middle....🤔 like you say, manufacturer seem to copy each other with no reason 😀
It is a handsome lil bike i must admit, agree about the offset clock, i think it was meant to have the little tripper thing too but personally i would be happy with just having the central mount. Mpg is really bloody good it has to be said.
This is a great bike. The engine sounds fantastic. Great styling. 3,899 GBP is cheap. I love the off-centre dial. Single dials should all be like this. Great wheels. Overall, great styling. I probably prefer the Classic Signals. I wouldn't buy either. Nick J
Going to Dover from London over xmas, can't wait to the long slope, i rekon could hit 80mph + get 5th gear at max power? 16 tooth front sprocket gives 6.67% gearing
I have recently bought a rebel red hunter ,my inital thoughts are it is a generally well sorted machine , good torque , well balanced , sort of like a modern day bsa starfire without the agricultural feel , because it is so good in many ways the obvious minor issues stand out which can be rectified, these appear to me as lever reach is too far with gloves on ,i have yet to fit some adjustable levers , handle bar risers required to improve bar positioning, rear shocks are way too stiff even at their lowest setting and could be inch or so shorter, you can hear the induction box is strangling the intake as you open the throttle ,side stand is a bit too long ,i believe Hitchcocks is working on a after market rev counter for this model if you you have a hankering to fill the offset of the speedo ,all of the above can be rectified if you choose to, so although not perfect with a bit of time and money you can have the ideal modern retro, having owned many modern and classic bikes and and scooters none are perfect its always a compromise its up to the owner to set it up to how you want it .
It should have a tacho to balance the speedo,it doesnt matter that if might not need one it would be a lot more use than the optional trip thing that shows a different time to the speedo and which i suspect no one uses.
Looks a nice bike. I think your cute terrier likes it 👍🏼
👍🏼
I'm not much younger than yourself but the Hunter is top of my list as a first "bigger" bike once I get my full license (I'm a very very late starter😅).
You should experiment with mudguards, especially the front and test to see how big it needs to be to satisfy your requirements. Undoubtedly the decision is down to aesthetics over practically, not sure a full guard on this bike would suit it's intended younger market. I don't know how the speedometer is mounted but perhaps a discrete bracket could be made to centre it if cable length allows, obviously it's off centre for the tripper device option, but I'd rather just have an analogue clock.
Given we know that the left side speedo is because of the tripper pod, which is not standard on the hunter, but how hard would it be to make a bracket for it which mounts on both sides where the tripper would go and centralise the clock 🤷🏻♂️ just a thought
💯
I think for a cheap, first off bike thats aimed at younger people, or people of smaller stature, its great. Its not trying to be something it isnt, the price point reflects whatever small imperfections it has.
I own the classic 350 (like yourself) so the difference between them id say is night and day, despite the shared engine. Personally I wouldn’t purchase the hunter, but I think the RE is doing a good job of covering all areas of the market.
It really is a great looking bike, I'm a much younger rider "much like your self" I grew up in the days of Yamaha RD's, Triples and so on and I kind of see these bikes as those bikes, Less expensive bikes and are great entry level and having the fun of modifying the air box, gutting the exhaust. I think it was much easier to do this mods 40 , 50 years and longer ago but it would be fun if there was lots of after market accessories and mods available like the 650's, things such as the booster plug, K&N air filter, just a way for someone to make the bike their own.
Many thanks 😊
The dial is offset because they are meant to come with the Tripper computer display. Due to the global chip shortage they are unable to provide them.
I literally thought that he is Darcy and his son is the Ol' Man!
Great job brother! Is the engine the same in all the new Enfield 350's??
Engine is the same 👍🏼
Definitely an urban bike. A excellent alternative to a scooter if you prefer a motorcycle.