Bajaj Dominar 250 vs Royal Enfield Classic 350 Single-channel ABS: Which One To Buy?

The price difference is just Rs 2,903, with the Dominar 250 being the more expensive model. Which one should you go for? 

Bajaj launched the Dominar 250 at Rs 1,60,000 (ex-showroom Delhi), making it just Rs 2,903 more expensive than the single-channel ABS variant of the Royal Enfield Classic 350 BS6. Both are ideal for touring, so we answer the obvious question: Which one to buy?

Buy the Bajaj Dominar 250 for its performance-oriented genes:

The Bajaj Dominar 250 might have a smaller capacity motor than the Royal Enfield Classic 350 BS6 but it is more sophisticated and consequently a lot more powerful. The BS6-compliant 248.77cc KTM 250 Duke BS6-derived powerplant produces 27PS at 8500rpm and 23.5Nm at 6500rpm. This is complemented by a 6-speed transmission with slipper clutch, which ensures the rear wheel doesn’t lock up under aggressive downshifts. 

Bajaj claims the motorcycle can accelerate from 0-100kmph in 10.5 seconds and comes with a top speed of 132kmph. Going by these numbers, expect the bike to cruise at around 100kmph comfortably on the highway. 

Additionally, the bike also gets a more advanced inverted front fork and gas-charged monoshock at the rear, along with twin disc brakes and even a standard dual-channel ABS. These features play a positive role in the dynamics of the motorcycle and the dual-channel ABS will also make the bike considerably safer than the Classic 350 BS6’s single-channel unit. Plus, it also gets modern features like all-LED lighting system, fully digital instrument cluster which enhance the bike’s premium quotient while being practical at the same time. All in all, the Dominar 250 is perfect for someone who wants a reasonably fast, capable tourer at a competitive price.

Buy Royal Enfield Classic 350 BS6 with single-channel ABS for its old-school charm:

Royal Enfields are known for their old-school charm and the Classic 350 is pretty much the embodiment of nostalgia. In its BS6 guise, the Classic 350 costs Rs 1,57,097 (ex-showroom) for the single-channel ABS. Now with the Dominar 250’s competitive pricing, the asking price for the Royal Enfield seems to be a bit much even though it undercuts the Dominar by Rs 2,903. 

This motorcycle performs best when ridden with a laid-back attitude. Stick to 80kmph on the highway and you’ll be rewarded with the iconic thump without any intrusive vibes accompanying it. Any speed more than that will make the engine feel unrefined. Since the Classic 350 BS6 is all about pure riding experience it makes do with a simple analogue speedometer and an odometer. There are the basic tell-tale lights like engine check light, indicators, high beam but that’s pretty much it. There’s no trip meter and even the iconic ammeter has been removed in favour of the engine check light.

One major advantage the Classic 350 BS6 offers over the Dominar 250 is the lifestyle. Royal Enfield’s riding community is pretty strong and is well spread across the country. The brand also organises different rides, thus enabling customers to interact with like-minded riders while helping them explore new places. Bajaj used to organise rides for Dominar 400 customers but it doesn’t anymore. Although, there are quite a few unofficial riding communities for you to join in. Overall, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is ideal for someone who likes to enjoy the journey rather than the destination.