With the recent jump in prices, Rs 2 lakh has become the benchmark for entry-level premium motorcycles. In the past two months, two prominent launches have taken place within this price band– Hero Karizma XMR and Royal Enfield Bullet 350. Both bikes are re-invented versions of their predecessors, carrying forward their respective brand names.
Both motorcycles are completely different from each other, and serve very different purposes. As a result, each motorcycle attracts a very different set of buyers. In this article, we tell you which motorcycle would be an ideal choice under the Rs 2 lakh budget.
Hero Karizma XMR Vs Royal Enfield Bullet: Styling & quality
Completely poles apart, the new Karizma XMR and the Bullet 350 exude very different personas. The Karizma is a sports tourer with a semi-faired body and an aggressive visual stance. On the other hand, the Bullet is a modern classic which can be as retro as possible. Although a very distinct design in itself, the Karizma seems somewhat lost amidst the plethora of faired sports bikes currently on sale in the market.
The Bullet, though, remains unmistakably a Bullet– well rounded, solid build and a hefty appeal. Moreover, there has been a significant improvement in quality, and fit and finish over the previous iteration. That said, the new Karizma is not badly built and in fact is one of the better built models from Hero MotoCorp in recent years. Every touchpoint has a sturdy feel to it but it somehow lacks the premium feel that the Enfield gloats.
Hero Karizma XMR Vs Royal Enfield Bullet: Features
While Bullet might be called a “modern classic”, it is no way as modern as the Karizma. It only gets the bare minimum features with additions like a small digital display in the instrument console, a USB charging port, and dual-channel ABS. That’s it. On the other hand, the Karizma XMR feels loaded to the gills with features like a fully-digital instrumentation, Bluetooth connectivity with calls and text alerts, turn-by-turn navigation via the mobile app, and an adjustable windscreen.
In terms of hardware, there is hardly anything to choose from. Both get telescopic front forks upfront but at the rear the Bullet gets more traditional twin shock absorbers whereas Karizma gets a more contemporary mono-shock, both preload adjustable. Braking is carried out by disc brakes at both ends aided by dual-channel. The base variant of Bullet comes with a front disc and rear drum brake setup complemented by a single-channel ABS.
Hero Karizma XMR Vs Royal Enfield Bullet: Engine specs
Again, the powertrain setup in the Bullet 350 is a more old-school, long-stroke, 349cc air/oil-cooled motor whereas the Karizma XMR gets a more modern liquid-cooled 210cc unit. Despite being down on size, the Hero makes more power than the Enfield, but the latter offers more torque than the former. This is the most critical difference between the two when it comes to performance. Also, Karizma gets a six-speed gearbox instead of a 5-speed unit offered in Bullet.
| Engine specs | Hero Karizma XMR | Royal Enfield Bullet 350 |
| Engine type | 210cc, single-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled | 349cc, air/oil-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Max Power | 25.15 bhp @ 9,250 rpm | 20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm |
| Max torque | 20.4 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6 Speed Manual | 5 Speed Manual |
| Top speed | 130 kmph | 115 kmph |
Hero Karizma XMR Vs Royal Enfield Bullet: Riding experience
A combination of all the factors mentioned above offer a very distinct riding experience. The Karisma XMR is definitely a lot more sportier with more oomph from the motor. It is meant to go fast which it does. Even the riding posture suggests a more sporty and aggressive ride experience.
The Bullet 350, on the other hand, is meant for laid back riding with relatively more comfort. Its performance is nowhere near as close to the Karizma and yet it feels much more refined than the sports tourer from Hero. The Karizma’s motor, even though very tractable, is very buzzy right from the word go. The 349cc mill in the Bullet is a lot more smoother and refined. The Enfield also gets a smoother gearbox than Hero which feels a bit notchy, although the clutch on the Bullet is slightly heavier than that of Karizma.
Hero Karizma XMR Vs Royal Enfield Bullet: Prices
| Hero Karizma XMR | Royal Enfield Bullet 350 | |
| Ex-showroom price | Rs 1.80 lakh | Rs 1.74 lakh (Base)Rs 1.97 lakh (Mid)Rs 2.16 lakh (Top) |
Hero Karizma XMR Vs Royal Enfield Bullet: Verdict
As mentioned at the start of this article, both motorcycles are vastly different from each other and meant for different purposes. Hence, each will have their own set of buyers. The Karizma XMR is meant for those seeking more performance out of their bike and love to ride fast. It can be your daily commute or your weekend tour guide.
The Bullet 350 is a lot more utilitarian and can perform multiple functions. From daily commutes, grocery shopping, short weekend tours, and to long cross country tours, the Bullet will do all without breaking a sweat. Yet, it will go in a leisurely manner throughout its course.
