2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 First Ride Review

Royal Enfield’s new Meteor 350 makes a big impact on the small-displacement cruiser market with timeless charm and predictable power and handling.

A meteor is headed straight for the US in the form of a small-displacement cruiser. In celebration of 120 years in motorcycling, Royal Enfield has revealed its new 2021 Meteor 350. This bike captures the pure essence of cruising with timeless charm, all while providing universally approachable power, laid-back ergonomics, and admirable handling.

The Meteor’s air-/oil-cooled single sits in a twin downtube spine frame under a classically bulbous tank. The negative space between these components is alluring, even artistic. The electronically fuel-injected 349cc engine has a gentle, endearing thrum. Power delivery is gradual and steady, persuading the rider to relax and enjoy its leisurely pace in classic cruising fashion. On our in-house dyno this little single puts 17.4 peak hp and 18.2 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheel, but this power does not cause the bike to stammer or stutter on the roadway, whether traveling at a noted max speed of 70–75 mph on the freeway (stick to the slow lane) or navigating urban streets. A balance shaft does a great job in eliminating vibration in all conditions.

Engaging the five-speed gearbox is illuminating; the meaty clutch lever has an easy pull, but its engagement point is not exactly pinpoint-precise. And the location of the shift lever in relation to the chunky footpeg means my size 10 foot takes some wedging in there. Luckily there’s a heel shifter that’s a great alternative for getting through the gears.

A relaxed reach to the handlebars and casual foot-forward peg position make the ride superbly comfortable for all-day riding, especially with the Meteor’s wide, cushy, supportive seat. A good thing, too, considering this model has touring-focused trim.

On long highway straights and sinuous side roads, suspension and handling proved its worth with a comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride. The rigid chassis and 41mm fork provides good straight-line stability, and the bike maintains its intended line in turns even when uneven manhole covers and choppy road surfaces do their best to upset the bike. Wavy pavement makes the twin tube emulsion shocks wallow in troughs, but that’s a small price to pay for soft settings that usually soak up road imperfections well.

Braking with the front two-piston caliper/300mm disc combo does introduce some dive, and feel at the lever is mushy, but the bike’s measured 418-pound weight is carried low, and with the help of the rear single-piston caliper and 270mm disc, stopping performance is adequate.

A simple gauge displays bare essentials on the analog speedometer and small LCD dash within, though the latter is difficult to see in direct sunlight. But, wait, there’s a smaller second gauge too. Royal Enfield dubs this little setup the Tripper navigation system, the first such in the RE family. Tripper is powered by Google Maps and the Royal Enfield app, connecting to a rider’s smartphone via Bluetooth to meet navigational needs. It’s a great, if standard, 21st century feature that’s actually not too common on beginner bikes. And if your phone’s in need of a charge, there’s also a USB charging port, another convenient bit of tech provided on this cruiser.

Under closer inspection, a touch of unrefined fit and finish can be seen. The base trim is handsome enough, with blacked-out details and pinstriping on the rims lending the Meteor a custom-bike aura, but sloppily wrapped wires mar an otherwise handsome vehicle.

Nicely shaped, inexpensive motorcycles shouldn’t be picked over too closely, lest you tarnish their charm. The Meteor 350 nails the classic cruiser vibe with its design, looks, and relaxed ergonomics, offering an easygoing ride with predictable power and handling. It’s a welcome air-cooled entry in the small-displacement cruiser market. Especially considering its starting price of $4,399, Royal Enfield most certainly has a contender against its liquid-cooled competition.

[steveb]

70mph cruising on a 350cc..that looks like a real bike should..light, easy to handle.. who needs a over the top superbike... ? just cruise all day and take in the view....on a 350 !!!

[aca]

This is maybe the first motorcycle that has interested me. It's got style yet is simple. I'm really smitten with it!

[bfarm]

I don’t think it has to be pigeon holed into a “beginner bike” category many of us seasoned riders are happy with a smaller bike to cruise on.

[manny]

There have been a lot of smaller Enfields popping up in Chicago the last few years. They are very forgiving urban riding machines. Easy to park and good at dodging busses.

[pranabchowdhury]

Being Indian feeling pride to be the origin of Royal Enfield. India gave a super kind machine to the world

[allans]

I just bought one. Understand this bike is awesome to ride! you don’t have to take it easy on it -you can have as much fun as you want and always be in control. Yes it’s a 350 but it sure feels faster than that! Very smooth very comfy to shift with the heel/ toe. Seat is amazing! Damn it looks good! Allan USA

[Jimo]

I appreciate the fact it has the frame under the engine so I could lift the whole bike off the ground for servicing, a feature sorely missed on almost all new bikes.

[lucianosantos]

I really enjoyed the video. Unfortunately it wasn't launched in Brazil yet. The bike stile is very cool. I can't wait to see Meteor in São Paulo.

[robert_]

This was totally filmed in downtown Long Beach, CA. I know those streets!! Great bike and review :)

[jfro]

I can see RE selling a bucket load of these, when folk get too old for bigger/
heavier stuff these will be another option to keep on two wheels. I like the look of them and they will be great value for money.

[laughingstalk]

I had NO idea this bike was available in the United States!

[j.d.thompson]

I had two CB 350s in my youth. Lots if happy miles. That was how motorcycling got in my blood.

[archievthapa]

Because of this super presentation I bought the RE Meteor Fireball Yellow - absolutely loving it !!! Thanks a ton

[Im_listening_keep_goin]

I actually have the same bike and its really comfortable to ride long distance but its never easy for the back seat rider. The power from throttle is really surprising and awesome. The disappointing part of this bike is, that we can feel the heat radiated from the engine and the exhaust pipe next to our leg. With the jeans on, its even more hotter. Apart from that, Its a great everyday ride.

[CprtFM]

After this video....I am sure going to get this bike for my misty hill rides of Ladakh!

[willyrackham]

nice review however Serena forgot to mention its price under $4.500 got to be a bargain

[StreetFoodTVCambodia]

This is the best Royal Enfield Meteor 350 review ever.

[DavidLouisQuinn]

Looks like a great little bike! Thanks for the review.

[dt]

Brilliant review, cant wait for it to come to the UK!

[kyakaruvlogs]

Royal Enfield is on a roll. It has so much in store for the next 12-24 months. The following models are up for launch -
Classic
Roadster
Shotgun
Hunter
Sherpa
Scram
Flying Flea and
An Electric Motorcyle

Also BSA will be launching its 650cc motorcycle by the end of the year.