HPCL Presents Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026 took place on May 5, 2026, in New Delhi, with awards recognising vehicles that align with changing mobility preferences in India under the theme ‘India’s Mobility Mission 2030: Clean Tech, Smart Manufacturing, Global Vision’. In the two-wheeler category, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 was named Viewer’s Choice Motorcycle of the Year. The category reflects direct consumer preference, placing focus on motorcycles that connect with everyday users in terms of usability, pricing, and riding experience rather than just specifications.
Engine, Performance And Riding Setup
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is powered by a 349cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled engine that produces 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 5-speed gearbox.
This engine is part of Royal Enfield’s J-series platform, which is tuned for smooth power delivery and consistent low-end torque.
For city use, these figures translate into predictable acceleration and manageable power, especially in stop-go traffic. The Hunter 350 uses a lighter chassis compared to other Royal Enfield models which improves handling and makes it more accessible for newer riders or those upgrading from smaller motorcycles.
Chassis, Features And Dimensions
The motorcycle is built on a twin downtube spine frame and uses telescopic front forks along with twin rear shock absorbers. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes, with dual-channel ABS offered on higher variants.
It rides on 17-inch wheels at both ends, which contributes to a lower seat height of around 800 mm and a more approachable riding position. The Hunter 350 also includes features such as a digital-analogue instrument cluster, optional Tripper navigation as well as LED taillamps.
In practical terms, these elements make it easier to manoeuvre in urban conditions while still offering enough stability for occasional highway use.
Buyer Relevance And Market Context
The Viewer’s Choice award highlights how the Hunter 350 fits into current buyer expectations. In India’s mid-capacity motorcycle segment, there is growing demand for models that are easy to ride daily without sacrificing brand identity or basic performance.
The Hunter 350 addresses this by focusing on simplicity, manageable performance and urban-friendly dimensions. Its recognition at the Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026 indicates strong consumer acceptance, particularly among younger buyers and first-time Royal Enfield customers looking for a practical yet distinct motorcycle.
HPCL led the event as presenting partner, with support from Yes Securities and Garware, Corporate Warranties India, Trev Mobility, and Heights Outdoor across key partner categories.
