I’m planning to buy a motorcycle. I’m 5 feet 11 inches tall and weigh 95 kg. My daily commute is around 40-45 km. Initially, I was considering the Honda H'ness CB350, but it’s quite expensive. Then I thought about the Honda Unicorn, but it feels too basic and lacks excitement. The Yamaha FZ series seems a bit over-styled to me. I also rode the TVS Apache RTR 180 2V, but considering my height, it felt too small. Now I’m confused between the Bajaj Pulsar 180 (OG) and the Bajaj Pulsar N160. The Pulsar 180 offers excellent value for money, while the N160 comes with many modern features. However, since I’ll also be riding with my family, I’m leaning towards the Pulsar 180 because of its long, single-piece seat, which is more comfortable for both the rider and the pillion. I’d really appreciate your suggestions and guidance on which one would be the better choice. @autocar.india

autocar.india

•2d

It seems you are looking for a no-nonsense machine with absolute reliability and comfort at the forefront, in which case our recommendation is the Honda Unicorn. The Unicorn has cemented its reputation as a reliable workhorse over the 2 decades it has been on sale in India, and it would be hard to go wrong with this machine. Take a test ride of the Unicorn and see if it fits your use case, and in case you feel like you want a livelier option, look at the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Bajaj Pulsar N160.

autocar.india

•1d

Since the bike is for your son and he prefers the Honda CB350, it would be advisable to go for the Honda over the Royal Enfield Bullet 350. The CB350 is a lighter machine than the Bullet and also has an easier clutch pull thanks to its slip/assist clutch, both of which are tangible factors in Honda's favour. Fuel economy should be largely similar on both, with perhaps a small advantage for the Honda, although mileage is something that varies based on a multitude of factors. About the chain story on the Bullet 350, that is an old gossip. On the new model, it is highly unlikely to happen as long as the chain is adjusted correctly and lubricated at the recommended intervals, just like any other motorcycle.To be sure, take test rides of the CB350 and Bullet back to back to ensure you go for the bike that suits you better.

autocar.india

•18h

Since you've mentioned your usage is quite low, and you liked the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 on your test ride, you should strongly consider it. The Hunter's low seat height and manageable weight will make it easy to use in city conditions, and it is a comfortable, reliable and fuss-free machine. If you ride sensibly, you will also see decent fuel economy, and the latest-gen Hunter has very pliant suspension, ensuring a comfortable ride over bad roads. Another option we'd recommend - and this is purely because you've mentioned this will be a "lifestyle purchase" - is the Goan Classic 350. The Goan attracts glances like nothing else at this price point, owing to its unique design and striking colours, and since it is based on a tried and tested platform, realistically, there should be no surprises in your prospective ownership. The one downside here is that the Goan is not as comfortable as the Hunter, mainly owing to its seating position.Take a test ride of the Goan to see if you resonate with the experience it has to offer before you make your decision.