I am 52 years old and planning to buy a two-wheeler with a budget of Rs. 2.5 lakh. I typically travel about 15-20 km daily. I have existing lower back pain, so my primary requirement is to protect my back. Please suggest suitable two-wheeler options.

autocar.india

•1d

Moving up from a Pulsar 150, you should check out the 350cc Bajaj Dominar 400, which will feel more substantial and comfortable, not to mention head and shoulders above when it comes to performance. Since your ride has a lot of highway stretches, a machine that can cruise comfortably at higher speeds while keeping you comfortable will be a good bet.If you want to look at the adventure bike space, consider the Hero Xpulse 210 and TVS Apache RTX 300. The Xpulse is lighter, which will make it easier to manage at slower speeds, and its smaller engine will also be more fuel efficient. On the other hand, the RTX has a more powerful engine capable of delivering more performance and its seating comfort is better than the Xpulse. Do bear in mind that both of these are tall bikes and will require some skill to manage if you're a shorter person.If, instead, you want a neo-retro machine, then consider proven options like the Honda CB350 models and Royal Enfield Classic / Bullet 350. These are relaxed and comfortable machines with torquey engines, which will be suitable for long commutes. When ridden sensibly, they also return good fuel economy. These bikes are all very different from one another, and to accurately gauge which is the best one for you, take a test ride of all before you make your decision.

autocar.india

•2d

The TVS Apache RTX 300 is a much more well-rounded machine than the Hero Xpulse 210. It is faster, more capable at highway speeds, and its handling is very nice when you encounter twisty roads. However, the Xpulse is lighter and will be friendlier for newer riders, especially when riding off-road. Before picking between the two, we'd recommend a thorough test ride of both, and if you want to cap your budget at Rs 2 lakh, then the Xpulse will be your only option because all variants of the RTX are just under or above that mark.

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.