The thought of long rides—wind in your face, roads stretching endlessly ahead, and the occasional chai stop at roadside dhabas—has a special place in every rider’s heart. But the question is: can the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 live up to the demands of a touring lifestyle? I decided to find out and took the Meteor on an extended ride across highways, winding mountain roads, and bumpy village paths. Here’s a deep dive into its long-ride performance and how well it holds up during touring adventures.
Comfort: Built for Easy Cruising 🛋️
Comfort is king on long rides, and the Meteor 350 nails the basics.
- Wide, well-cushioned seat: After clocking over 300 km in a single stretch, I didn’t feel like my back needed urgent medical attention. The seat’s shape and padding are ideal, though taller riders might feel a bit cramped.
- Pillion backrest: A lifesaver for anyone riding with a passenger. No more grumpy pillions regretting the trip halfway through.
- Ergonomic riding posture: The handlebars are raised just right, and the slightly forward footpegs keep things relaxed without turning you into a pretzel. Whether you’re cruising at 60 km/h or 100 km/h, it’s easy on your body.
Pro tip: Add a seat cover or gel pad for those really long journeys if you plan to clock 500+ km days.
Highway Performance: Steady as She Goes 🛤️
The Meteor 350 isn’t a bike built for jaw-dropping speed runs—but hey, it’s not a race, it’s an adventure.
- Cruising Comfort Zone: The Meteor feels happiest around the 80-90 km/h mark. You can push it beyond 100 km/h, but it starts to strain, and you’ll feel the vibrations creep in.
- Wind Buffeting: With no stock windshield, high-speed highway rides can feel a bit exhausting. However, an aftermarket windshield can solve this problem.
- Fuel Economy: During long hauls, I averaged 35-40 km/l, which is impressive for a 349cc engine. With a 13-litre tank, the Meteor offers decent range, though I’d recommend topping up every 250-300 km to avoid hunting for petrol stations in remote areas.
Handling and Ride Quality: Smooth on Most Terrains 🛞
On long tours, you encounter all sorts of roads—some that feel like velvet and others that make you question life choices. The Meteor manages to stay composed, no matter the terrain.
- Suspension Setup: The telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks do a commendable job on rough patches, but the rear suspension can feel stiff over sharp bumps.
- Tyres: The stock MRF tyres are good enough for highways but lack grip on wet roads. Upgrading to stickier tyres will enhance both safety and confidence on corners.
- Cornering: It’s not a sportbike, but the Meteor’s low center of gravity makes it surprisingly agile in curves. On twisty mountain roads, it handles well for a cruiser.
Engine and Gearbox: Smooth Operator 🛠️
The heart of the Meteor 350 is the J-series 349cc engine, known for its smooth performance and linear power delivery.
- Power Delivery: The engine offers decent low-end torque, perfect for overtakes on highways without constant downshifting. While it’s not the most powerful bike, it has enough grunt to keep you moving steadily with luggage and a pillion.
- Gearbox: The 5-speed gearbox shifts smoothly and is well-suited for touring. The gear ratios feel just right for relaxed cruising.
- Minimal Vibrations: Unlike some older Royal Enfield models, the Meteor keeps vibrations in check, though a slight buzz kicks in after 90 km/h.
Tech Features: Useful for Long Rides 📲
Touring is all about convenience, and the Meteor 350’s tech setup is simple but practical.
- Tripper Navigation: Royal Enfield’s built-in GPS works seamlessly with Google Maps, ensuring you don’t get lost—even when there’s no cell signal to ask a stranger for directions.
- USB Charging Port: Perfect for keeping your phone and gadgets alive during long rides.
- Fuel Injection System: No more kicking the carburetor—FI ensures smooth performance at different altitudes, whether you’re climbing mountain passes or cruising by the sea.
Luggage and Storage: Minimal, but Manageable 🎒
Touring means carrying stuff—whether it’s spare clothes, tools, or snacks (because hunger is real). Here’s how the Meteor handles luggage.
- No under-seat storage: Unfortunately, there’s no built-in storage, but adding a saddlebag or rear rack solves that issue.
- Panniers and Saddlebags: Thanks to its cruiser design, the bike supports aftermarket panniers and saddlebags without looking awkward. Throw on some bags, and you’re ready for weekend getaways or longer adventures.
Braking and Safety: Reliable, but Not Perfect 🛑
Safety is non-negotiable on long rides, and the Meteor performs well in this department—though there’s room for improvement.
- Dual-Channel ABS: Works well, especially on slippery roads. No scary skids when braking hard.
- Brakes: While the Bybre brakes are reliable, they lack the sharp bite you’d expect in emergency stops. A little extra squeeze on the lever is often required.
Tour-Ready Customization Options 🔧
Long-distance riders love tweaking their bikes to suit their specific needs, and the Meteor offers plenty of customization options.
- Aftermarket Windshield: A must-have for highway rides to reduce wind fatigue.
- Exhaust Upgrades: Want a deeper thump? Go for an aftermarket exhaust, but keep in mind noise regulations.
- Crash Guards: Add them for extra safety on bumpy roads.
- Luggage Racks: Make room for those touring bags.
Fuel Stops and Breaks: Because It’s Not Just About the Bike ☕
Long rides aren’t just about the destination—they’re about the journey. And the Meteor 350 fits perfectly into the laid-back riding vibe.
- Tea Stops: This bike will earn you friendly nods from fellow riders at every roadside tea stall.
- Chilled Riding Experience: The Meteor isn’t meant for breakneck speeds—it’s about enjoying the ride and taking in the scenery.
The Verdict: Is the Meteor 350 a Good Touring Bike? 🚴♂️
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 may not be the fastest or most high-tech bike out there, but it ticks all the right boxes for touring. It’s comfortable, reliable, and comes with a solid support network. For riders who enjoy taking things slow and steady, the Meteor offers an ideal blend of practicality, comfort, and charm.
Pros and Cons for Touring
Pros:
- Comfortable seating for both rider and pillion
- Relaxed engine performance for long rides
- Useful tech features like navigation and USB charging
- Good fuel economy
Cons:
- Limited storage without aftermarket luggage
- Wind buffeting at high speeds without a windshield
- Stiff rear suspension over rough patches
Final Thoughts
If you’re someone who loves the journey as much as the destination, the Meteor 350 will feel like the perfect companion. It’s not just a motorcycle—it’s an invitation to explore, relax, and enjoy the little moments along the way.
So, the next time you hear the open road calling, gear up, hop on the Meteor, and ride off into the horizon. After all, life’s too short not to take the long way home. 🛣️✨
