I’m 5'9" tall and weigh over 95 kg. I usually travel on weekends within the city and often encounter bad roads. Scooters like the Activa feel uncomfortable. I’m considering the Hero Xpulse, but reviews mention the pillion seat isn’t comfortable. I didn't like the other options in retro style. Should I go for the Xpulse or consider alternatives?

In the 125cc category, you have a long list of options with varying body types and feature sets. In the traditional commuter class, you could consider the Honda Shine and the Hero Super Splendor Xtec / Glamour models. If you want a sporty-looking, feature-rich commuter, you can consider the Honda CB125 Hornet, TVS Raider, and Hero Xtreme 125R.In the 160cc category, bikes like the Bajaj Pulsar N160 and TVS Apache RTR 160 4V would be our recommendations on the sportier end of the scale. If you want a simple, straightforward commuter, the Honda Unicorn and any of the Yamaha FZ models will serve you well.Take a thorough test ride of the bikes you shortlist before you decide.

Since you haven't specified what your budget or your preferred style of motorcycle is, we'll give you a list of diverse options. In the ADV space, you can look at the TVS Apache RTX 300, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, and any of the 250 / KTM 390 Adventure models, depending on the sort of power you want and your budget. In the neo-retro space, you can look at the Royal Enfield Classic / Bullet 350 models and the Honda CB350 trio at the lower end of the scale, and the Interceptor 650 if you want something bigger.If you want a sporty naked motorcycle, the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 and the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 will fit the bill. Do take exhaustive test rides of all machines you shortlist before putting your money down.

Within your budget, you have a variety of options, and we'll first recommend the scooters since that is your current mode of transport. In the scooter segment, the TVS Jupiter models and the Suzuki Access are our top picks for their balance of practicality, fuel economy, and comfort. If you want something flashier looking, you can consider the TVS Ntorq and the Suzuki Avenis, although the former is a much sportier product.Moving to motorcycles, you can opt for anything in the 125-160cc space. Within the 125cc class, you can choose between the Honda Shine and Hero Super Splendor / Glamour models if you want a straightforward, no-frills commuter.On the other hand, bikes like the TVS Raider, Hero Xtreme 125R, and Honda CB125 Hornet will give you sportier looks, peppier performance, and more features too.Finally, in the 160cc space, bikes like the Honda Unicorn, Bajaj Pulsar N160, and TVS Apache RTR 160 4V will serve you well. Do take a test ride of every option you're considering before you decide.

The Tata Sierra and Mahindra XUV700 are slightly different vehicles, and it depends on your requirements and priorities. Also, the Mahindra XUV700 is due to be discontinued and replaced in Jan 2026 with the XUV7X0, which is essentially an upgraded XUV700.If you want power and performance, the Mahindra XUV 7XO, with its strong petrol and diesel engine options, is the one for you. However, the petrol engine is a bit of a guzzler and will burn a hole in your pocket. Another reason to buy the XUV7X0 is the space and the on-board tech, which is very impressive.The Tata Sierra is a more compact car, which makes it much easier to park and manoeuvre, and overall it's easier to drive thanks to fantastic all-round visibility. The Sierra’s 1.5 turbo-petrol, though nowhere near as powerful as the XUV7X0’s 2-litre petrol, is smooth and strong enough to give you enough punch for everyday driving. Also, a plus is the 6-speed auto, which is jerk-free and refined.The Sierra’s long-term performance is not yet known, and Tata’s poor reputation for quality and service precedes it. However, since it's made in a new plant with a far better quality culture, we are hopeful that with the Sierra, Tata will put this reputation behind it. We would lean towards the Sierra as it's a similar kind of car to the Hyundai Creta, which you are currently using.