If you’re planning to buy a Royal Enfield bike in 2025, chances are you’re torn between two incredible choices: the GT 650 and the Royal Enfield Hunter 350. Both these machines offer something unique — the GT 650 boasts raw power and café-racer styling, while the Hunter 350 delivers street-smart agility and a modern retro look.
So, which one should you go for? To help you decide, we’ve done a detailed comparison based on design, performance, mileage, comfort, pricing, and overall usability for Indian roads.
Design & Styling
GT 650 – The Classic Café Racer
The GT 650 is a visual treat for anyone who appreciates retro-inspired café racers. With its clip-on handlebars, sculpted fuel tank, and rear-set foot pegs, this motorcycle screams speed even when standing still. The dual exhausts and exposed twin-cylinder engine add to its muscular, premium look. It’s not just a bike; it’s a statement.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350 – Urban Retro Vibes
On the other hand, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 features a more compact and urban design. It blends classic Royal Enfield elements with a more youthful and sporty profile. The round headlamp, teardrop tank, and upright stance make it ideal for zipping through city streets. It’s the perfect blend of old-school charm and modern practicality.
Verdict:
If style and road presence are your top priorities, the Continental GT 650 wins. But for daily city use and youthful vibes, the Hunter 350 has its edge.
Engine & Performance
GT 650 – Power Packed Twin-Cylinder
The GT 650 comes with a 648cc air/oil-cooled parallel-twin engine producing around 47 bhp and 52 Nm of torque. It is mated to a smooth 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch. This engine configuration is made for highway cruising and spirited rides. It accelerates quickly and maintains high speeds effortlessly, making it ideal for weekend touring and long-distance rides.
Hunter 350 – Efficient and City-Friendly
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is powered by a 349cc single-cylinder, air-oil cooled engine generating around 20.4 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. It’s refined, smooth and best suited for city commuting and occasional short rides. While it won’t win you drag races, it excels in navigating congested urban streets.
Verdict:
The GT 650 is the clear winner in terms of outright power and highway performance. However, the Hunter 350 scores better for beginners and city riders who prefer a lighter and more manageable engine.
Riding Comfort & Ergonomics
GT 650 – Aggressive Yet Engaging
With its café racer DNA, the GT 650 has a forward-leaning riding posture. The clip-on handlebars and rear-set foot pegs offer a sporty position that is thrilling but can become uncomfortable on long rides, especially for daily commutes. It’s best suited for riders who love engaging with the road.
Hunter 350 – Upright and Relaxed
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 offers a more upright and relaxed posture. With its well-padded seat, mid-set foot pegs, and wide handlebars, it delivers comfort and ease for both daily commutes and weekend rides. The suspension is tuned for Indian roads and handles potholes and speed breakers well.
Verdict:
If comfort is your priority and you’re planning to use your bike mostly in the city or for short rides, the Hunter 350 wins this round.
Handling & Manoeuvrability
GT 650 – Solid and Stable
Despite being heavier, the GT 650 offers excellent stability, especially at high speeds. The chassis is well-balanced, and the suspension is tuned for confident cornering. However, it may feel a bit bulky in heavy traffic and tight parking spots.
Hunter 350 – Light and Nimble
The Hunter 350 is one of the lightest Royal Enfield bikes and is extremely agile. It’s easy to handle in traffic and great for beginner riders. The 17-inch wheels and slightly firmer suspension setup ensure better control and flickability in city conditions.
Verdict:
In terms of handling and city manoeuvrability, the Hunter 350 is the better option.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
GT 650 – Moderate Mileage
The GT 650 delivers an average mileage of around 23–25 kmpl, which is decent for a twin-cylinder 650cc motorcycle. However, this bike is more about performance and less about fuel savings.
Hunter 350 – Fuel-Efficient Commuter
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 offers a mileage of around 35–40 kmpl, making it more pocket-friendly for daily rides. Thanks to its efficient engine tuning and lower displacement, it makes a great choice for budget-conscious riders.
Verdict:
If mileage is a key factor for you, the Hunter 350 is clearly a better choice.
Features & Tech
GT 650
- Dual-channel ABS
- Slipper clutch
- Analogue-digital instrument cluster
- Premium build quality
- Pirelli Phantom SportComp tyres (in older versions, now replaced by Ceat)
Hunter 350
- Dual-channel ABS
- Digital-analogue instrument cluster
- USB charging port
- Lighter chassis
- Tripper navigation (optional on higher variants)
Verdict:
The Hunter 350 offers more modern tech at a lower price, but the GT 650 delivers premium components and a more refined ride experience.
Pricing & Variants
GT 650
The GT 650 is priced between ₹3.19 lakh to ₹3.45 lakh (ex-showroom). It’s positioned as a mid-size premium motorcycle and offers great value for performance and features in its segment.
Hunter 350
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 comes in three variants: Retro, Metro, and Metro Rebel, with prices ranging from ₹1.49 lakh to ₹1.74 lakh (ex-showroom). It’s one of the most affordable Royal Enfield bikes in 2025.
Verdict:
If budget is a concern, the Hunter 350 makes more sense. But if you want a powerful, premium bike and can stretch your budget, the GT 650 offers excellent value for its price.
Pros and Cons
GT 650 – Pros:
- Powerful twin-cylinder engine
- Premium styling and build
- Great for highway touring
- Smooth gearbox with slipper clutch
GT 650 – Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy for city rides
- Less comfortable for daily commutes
Hunter 350 – Pros:
- Affordable and fuel-efficient
- Easy to ride and handle
- Great for city commuting
- Modern retro styling
Hunter 350 – Cons:
- Less powerful engine
- Not ideal for highway cruising
- Basic features in base variant
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy in 2025?
The decision between the GT 650 and Royal Enfield Hunter 350 comes down to your riding style, budget, and usage.
- Choose the GT 650 if you:
- Love spirited riding and long tours
- Want a performance-oriented, stylish motorcycle
- Have the budget for a mid-premium segment bike
- Choose the Hunter 350 if you:
- Need a reliable, comfortable city commuter
- Are a beginner or looking for a lighter bike
- Prefer fuel-efficiency and affordability
In conclusion, both the GT 650 and Royal Enfield Hunter 350 shine in their own segments. The GT 650 is built for performance lovers, while the Hunter 350 is a daily rider’s best friend. Evaluate your needs, and either way, you’ll be joining the proud family of Royal Enfield riders in 2025.
