Which is the Better Choice: Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Bajaj Dominar 400

Choosing between the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the Bajaj Dominar 400 can be a daunting task, especially for motorcycle enthusiasts. Both bikes have their unique features and appeal to different riding preferences. Let's break down the key aspects of each bike to help you make an informed decision.

Royal Enfield Classic 350

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is often praised for its old-school charm and comfort. This motorcycle delivers a lot of torque off the idle, making it an easy city ride. Its small turning radius also facilitates navigation in congested areas, making it very user-friendly.

Pros of the Royal Enfield Classic 350:

Old school charm Very comfortable Lots of torque off the idle Easy city rideability with a smaller turning radius Repairability is easier than any sports bike

Cons of the Royal Enfield Classic 350:

Noisy riding experience due to vibrations and the thump exhaust note Less performance compared to 200cc bikes in terms of speed and handling Less advanced accessories available
In summary, if you appreciate a traditional riding experience, can handle vibrations, and don't mind the noise, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 might be the perfect choice for you.

Bajaj Dominar 400

The Bajaj Dominar 400 is known for its superb mid-range and top-end power, making it a superior choice for those looking for enhanced performance. Additionally, it offers excellent value for money, as it comes equipped with a lot of standard features. Its very bright headlamps and superb highway capabilities make it a great choice for long-distance riding.

Pros of the Bajaj Dominar 400:

Superb mid-range and top-end power Stellar value for money with lots of kit Very bright headlamps Superb highway capabilities More advanced and improved accessories such as taller windshields and luggage options

Cons of the Bajaj Dominar 400:

Less old school charm compared to the Royal Enfield Classic 350 Noise and vibration issues might not be as common as in the Classic 350
In short, if you prioritize performance, value for money, and advanced accessories, the Bajaj Dominar 400 is the better choice.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the Bajaj Dominar 400 ultimately depends on your riding style and preferences. The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is a great option if you enjoy a traditional experience, while the Bajaj Dominar 400 is a better choice for those who prioritize performance and advanced features.

For practical reasons, the Dominar is a better choice. If you want the classic looks but don't want to compromise on your biking requirements, the Jawa 42 is a good alternative. Additionally, the Mahindra Mojo might be a compelling option to consider as well.

Regardless of which you choose, it is crucial to consider your primary riding needs. On technical parameters, the Dominar is superior. The Classic 350 may have more accessories, but most of them are cosmetic and don't add to performance. The only real advantage of the Classic 350 is its repairability in remote locations.

I would recommend the Dominar 400, given the value you get for your money. My personal experience with the Bajaj Thunderbird 350 for three years made me appreciate it more than cheaper bikes due to the availability of basic features. Royal Enfields, on the other hand, only offer the "ride feel."

In conclusion, if you are planning to buy a sport bike, choose another one. If you want a cruiser bike, consider the Classic 350 or Thunderbird 350. The Dominar is more modified and powerful than the Classic, although they share the same CC. Therefore, my suggestion is that you buy the Dominar 400.