Autocar India
•12w

I am a third-year college student, and I've always wanted a bike. My dream bike is the KTM Duke 390, but I've settled on the Duke 250 because it seems easier to own. I will have to ask my parents to buy it for me, and I feel guilty about that, but I also can't let go of the dream of owning a KTM. My parents have set a budget of Rs. 2 lakh, while the Duke 250 costs around Rs. 2.7 lakh. Is it worth stretching the budget? Also, what is the best lower-capacity bike that offers an aggressive performance like a KTM? I don't like the Yamaha R15 because the riding position feels too cramped.

Verified
•12w

At some point in our lives, we were all in your shoes, and no matter which motorcycle you get, it's going to be a fun road ahead! First things first, since your budget is Rs 2 lakh, why not consider the 350cc Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z? This bike will give you more performance than any other machine at this price point, and it's an exciting and engaging machine without being too cramped and uncomfortable. 

The NS400Z's on road price is also likely to cross the Rs 2 lakh mark, but it will well undercut the Rs 2.70 lakh asking price of the KTM 250 Duke. 

Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z

Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z

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•4d

I’m a first-time car buyer. My usage will be around 40% city driving and 60% on state highways, with a monthly running of approximately 800-1,000 km. The roads are somewhat okay, with some bad stretches but mostly good roads. I’m looking for an automatic transmission. Hatchbacks, compact sedans, and compact SUVs are all fine. My budget is flexible, between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 14 lakh. I have shortlisted 3-4 vehicles, namely: 1. Honda Amaze ZX CVT 2. Maruti Brezza ZXi Automatic 3. Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5 Automatic Any other car recommendations are also welcome. I am currently posted in Varanasi, if that helps.

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•3d

With 40 percent city and 60 percent highway use, the 3XO is the better fit among your three choices. Its turbo petrol engine has considerably stronger low- and mid-range performance than the Brezza and Amaze, which will be useful on state highways, particularly when carrying passengers and luggage. It also has a well-judged ride that copes well with broken roads.The Brezza ZXi AT would be the choice for easier ownership. Its petrol engine is smoother, and Maruti's service network is a significant advantage, while its ride quality is very good on poor roads. It is also the more relaxed choice if outright performance is not important.The Amaze ZX CVT is worth considering if you prefer a sedan. Its CVT is smooth, and the suspension is comfortable over rough city roads, while the large boot is useful for highway trips. However, its engine lacks the punch of the 3XO, particularly with a full load, and the cabin is narrower.The Skoda Kylaq 1.0 TSI AT is also worth adding to the shortlist if driving enjoyment is important. It has a well sorted chassis and a conventional automatic, making it particularly appealing for your highway heavy usage.

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VehicleSkoda Kylaq

Posted on: 4 Jul 2026