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.

autocar.india

•19h

The TVS Apache RTX 300 is a faster, more modern, feature-rich and capable machine than the Suzuki V-Strom SX. If you value performance and features, then the RTX is definitely the bike more likely to be up your alley. However, if most of your riding is in the city and you value a hassle-free, no-nonsense experience then the V-Strom will be the one that will appeal to you. While they sit in similiar price segments, the RTX and V-Strom aren't directly comparable and we'd advise you to take a test ride of both before you make your decision.

autocar.india

•2d

Since you have a rather long commute with comfort and fuel economy as your top priorities, we'd recommend looking at these 160cc options - Honda Unicorn / SP160, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Bajaj Pulsar N160. The Honda bikes are textbook commuters and are simple, no-nonsense machines which should also prove to be reliable and hassle-free to own. On the other hand, the TVS and Bajaj bikes are feature-rich, sporty commuters that will give you better performance while still being reaonably frugal and comfortable. In fact, if you want a little more pep, then the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and Bajaj Pulsar N250 both are worth considering. These bikes offer a tangible step up in performance in comparison to their smaller siblings without sacrificing too much fuel economy and since you have a long commute every day, you will value the added performance on tap. Take test rides of these bikes to see which ones float your boat before you make a decision.

autocar.india

•4d

For the short to mid-term, E20 will be the current baseline blend of petrol available on a nationwide scale. Speaking strictly about material compatibility, E20 machines should be able to handle up to E30 fuel with the fuel tank, rubber seals, gaskets and hoses all ready to support the higher blend. What will need recalibration is the ECU to handle the higher ethanol content in the fuel, which is something that will have to come from the manufacturer. There is currently no information on if/when Royal Enfield intends to introduce a flex fuel machine, so stick with the Hunter for your next purchase.