I’ve owned a Unicorn 150cc for 15 years. Over the past year, I’ve started touring with a group in Pune. On a recent 500km return trip, the bike performed well, but I experienced saddle soreness and hand pain. I’d like your expert advice on upgrading to a bike in a higher cc class that’s best in the segment, suitable for city use and long-distance touring. I’m looking for excellent comfort, good mileage, strong ride and handling, better ergonomics and control, and dual-channel ABS.

First off, congratulations on starting longer journeys aboard a motorcycle – a fun time lies ahead for you! Now, since you haven’t specified an exact displacement class or budget, it will be tough to recommend precisely.

That said, since you mentioned wanting to step up to the next "cc class," that would be the 160cc sporty commuters. They can handle both city and highway duties, and the likes of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Bajaj Pulsar N160 / NS160 make for solid upgrade options. However, do take long test rides of both these machines, since you are planning to do longer stints in the saddle now.