I am a first-time bike buyer looking for a retro-style motorcycle for my daily commute of around 30–35 km in Mumbai. I have considered the Yamaha XSR155 and Yamaha FZ-X Hybrid — are there any other options you would recommend? I am looking for a bike that is easy to maintain and service. I am 5'8" tall, so please suggest accordingly. I also have a small child, so comfort and practicality are important factors for me.

autocar.india

•4d

For your location and usage, we'd recommend choosing between the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and Honda CB350 models. The Hunter is more affordable, more compact and quite comfortable. It is also a very popular bike which sells by the bucketload every month and given how many are on the road today, you're likely to have a pleasant ownership experience without teething troubles.Meanwhile, the Honda CB350 models are larger machines in terms of their bodywork and spacious ergonomics but are almost on par with the Hunter when it comes to weight. The H'ness and RS, in particular, also have a more standout design and if you want a bike that's not very common, one of these is a good buy. Finally, the 350cc Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is a completely different ballgame to these air-cooled 350s and will offer much superior performance and handling but will be a little compromised on the comfort front in comparison. To make an informed decision, take a test ride of all three before you go ahead with your purchase.

autocar.india

•5h

If you have had a good experience with your Electra (and considering you've kept it for 2 decades, it seems you have), then going for a new-age Royal Enfield bike like the Bullet / Classic 350 would be the ideal step up. These bikes will retain the core character and thump of your Electra but bring in many engine and chassis improvements, offering you a thoroughly modern biking experience. Reliability, too, has seen a significant jump over older REs, and this will positively impact the overall ownership experience.In many ways, the Honda CB350 models are uncannily similar to the RE 350s (sometimes to their own detriment) but bring in some signature Honda bike strengths like a lightweight, easy-to-manage demeanour and super reliability as well as low ownership costs. As for an electric scooter, it is a completely different proposition. It makes sense only if your usage is limited to short city commutes and you are looking for a low-maintenance, cost-effective solution. At your age and weight, a modern 350cc motorcycle will be far more comfortable than a scooter.

autocar.india

•4d

If you are considering purchasing a petrol two-wheeler, then you should go ahead with your decision. Over time, your resale will, of course, be impacted by this decision, but that will be quite a few years down the line, and by then your needs and preferences will likely change, which means that drop is unlikely to affect you to a great extent.