I am planning to buy a reliable motorcycle that can cruise comfortably for long distances while also offering a great ownership experience in terms of reliability, fuel efficiency, and service costs. I am interested in the Suzuki V-Strom SX, but I feel a bit skeptical since it is now an older model. Is it still worth buying the V-Strom SX in 2026, or are there other motorcycles that can match the expectations I mentioned above?

Autocar India

•1d

Since you haven't specified a budget, it's hard to give you an exact recommendation, but we'll give you a wide variety of options to choose from, catering to different price points. Under the Rs 2 lakh mark, something like a Royal Enfield Classic / Bullet 350, any of the Honda CB350 models, TVS Ronin, as well as the Honda CB300F will be available. These bikes can handle long highway rides, provided you're comfortable with maintaining speeds below 100kph.If you can stretch to Rs 3 lakh, then options like the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, TVS Apache RTR / RR 310 and previous-gen KTM 390 Duke and Adventure models are available. These bikes give you the ability to cruise around 100-120kph owing to their more powerful engines. However, the single-cylinder TVS and KTM models won't be able to match the smoothness of the twin-cylinder Royal Enfield. Do bear in mind that since you want a vehicle with low maintainance, it would be advisable to go for a machine with a documented service history and one that has its cycle parts (brakes, tyres, fluids) in good condition, so you don't need to incur additional expenses.

Autocar India

•3d

The Bajaj Avenger is a tried and tested product, and it still remains a good VFM cruiser in the entry-level class. However, if you are willing to stretch your budget a little more, modern and well-rounded offerings like TVS Ronin and the base Royal Enfield Bullet 350 will become available. These are comfortable and refined machines which will provide a more well-rounded riding experience than the Avenger. Even though your usage is limited, buying a new bike makes sense if you intend to keep it for a longer time because it will come with the peace of mind of the manufacturer's warranty. Take a test ride of these two before you decide.

Autocar India

•3d

The Hero Xtreme 250R is a machine that came out just over a year ago, and so early into its lifecycle, Hero is unlikely to introduce major updates or changes. If you want something in a similiar displacement bracket, then your options are Bajaj Pulsar N250, Suzuki Gixxer 250 and KTM 250 Duke. Of these, the first two are more commuter-y in their performance and fuel economy figures. The KTM is a properly sporty and feature-rich product and will feel like a clear step up over other 250s. It, however, is a pricey product. A test ride of these 3 will help you decide which is the best for you.