Let’s be honest: BSA is not just bringing back a name. It's entering a competition. The new Bantam 350 is directly targeting the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, and it's not being subtle about it. Both motorcycles have a retro design, single-cylinder engines, and are beginner-friendly, aiming to be affordable, cool, and effortless. They both have strong British heritage now supported by major Indian companies with global aspirations.
BSA, once the largest motorcycle manufacturer globally, faded away many years ago. However, under Mahindra’s Classic Legends brand, it is getting a second chance—just as Royal Enfield is experiencing a worldwide resurgence. Royal Enfield already dominates the lightweight retro market, especially with the Hunter 350, which has been popular among urban riders in countries like India and the UK.
The Bantam 350 is targeting the same audience.
The name "Bantam" is not just for nostalgia. It comes from a breed of small but feisty chickens known for their agility and scrappiness. The original Bantam by BSA, introduced in 1948, was a simple two-stroke commuter bike that was affordable and widely used in postwar Britain.
The new Bantam 350 aims to capture that same spirit but with a cleaner engine, improved brakes, and more refinement.
On paper, the Bantam 350 offers some strong features. It is powered by a 334cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing 29 horsepower at 7,750 rpm and 21.8 pound-feet of torque at 6,000 rpm. This is more power than the Hunter 350's air-cooled engine with 20.2 horsepower and 19.9 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, the Bantam 350 comes with liquid cooling, a 6-speed gearbox, and dual overhead cams, features not available on the Enfield at this level.
The chassis is simple yet well-designed, with a telescopic fork, twin rear shocks, disc brakes with ABS, and 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels. The bike weighs 408 pounds and has a seat height of 31.5 inches, similar to the Hunter.
The Bantam 350 also has a 13-liter fuel tank, slightly larger than the Hunter's. These differences suggest that BSA is targeting riders who want a bit more performance without straying too far from the relaxed retro style.
Until now, Royal Enfield has dominated this segment of the market. The Hunter 350 proved that there is a demand for compact, stylish, and straightforward bikes that still feel authentic. Now, BSA is entering the scene with better specifications and a legendary brand to support it.
Does the new Bantam live up to its name? On paper, yes. It is lightweight, scrappy, and offers more power than the current leader. However, it remains simple, easy to ride, and suitable for new or returning riders.
Priced at £3,499 (approximately $4,500 USD), it is competitively priced. If BSA can deliver on quality and availability, this little contender might make an impact in the market.