Hey experts, I’m planning to buy a bike between August and October with a budget of ₹3 lakh. I’m looking for a torquey motorcycle with strong top-end performance that I can own for many years, as this will be the first bike registered in my name. I have a strong emotional connect with TVS, as I’ve ridden my elder brother’s 2015 Apache RTR 180, and I’m naturally drawn to the Apache RTR 310. It ticks many boxes for me in terms of styling, torque, mid-range and top-end performance, along with manageable fuel efficiency. However, my main concern is TVS after-sales service, as I don’t have first-hand experience and have heard mixed feedback from other owners. I’m also considering exchanging my old RTR 180 for the RTR 310. While I’m aware that I’m quite biased towards the RTR 310 emotionally, the reported service experience makes me question the practicality of the purchase. I’d really appreciate your advice on whether the RTR 310 is a sensible long-term choice and also request suggestions for strong alternatives in the same segment, so I can make a well-informed decision. Thank you!

Autocar India

•1d

Honestly, both bikes are great at their job and will suit your needs well, but they offer very different experiences. The Hunter 350 is a very different Royal Enfield from what we've seen before, but carries some signature strengths like plush ride quality, a characterful and torquey engine, as well as great curb appeal and good finish levels. Plus, when you buy a RE, you get access to a brand which has built a very good community and ownership experience in terms of events and rides, which is something few brands in India offer you today.Do bear in mind that the Hunter is a heavy machine, and this is just something you will have to work around. It's not as heavy as other Royal Enfields, but it is a good 20 kilos heavier than the TVS Ronin.Coming to the Ronin, this is a lighter, more agile and eager-feeling machine than the Hunter. It isn't overtly sporty and will be comfortable for daily use. The Ronin's lighter weight and smaller engine also translate to better fuel economy in general. The TVS is also the more affordable machine to purchase, and the price difference isn't insignificant. If you are on a tight budget, this is something to consider.Both bikes have a very different feel despite being similar on paper, and to make an informed decision before your next purchase, take a test ride of both.

Autocar India

•16h

Since you have said you want comfort, we'd recommend you rule out the KTM 390 Duke. The Duke can be usable on a day-to-day basis, but it is a stiffly sprung and sporty machine that's also rather cramped for taller folks and especially coming from the Meteor, could prove too uncomfortable.The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is a good choice, which will balance performance and comfort, although there will be a short adjustment period for you before you completely gel with it. We'd recommend going for the Apex variant, which comes with grippier Vredestein rubber that is better than the standard variant's CEAT shoes.The KTM 390 Adventure is a great bike for long-distance travelling, and if that is going to be the main reason behind your purchase, then it makes sense. However, inside the city, it can feel a little too buzzy, and its fuel economy isn't great either. Do bear in mind that KTMs comes with stiff seats and you will either have to adapt to it or get it fixed in the aftermarket.Since you are already considering the 390 Adventure, it would make sense to also look at the Himalayan 450. This is the more rounded of the two machines in our experience, and its ride comfort is unparalleled at this price point. Its size and weight will take some getting used to, but if you are okay with it, then this is a machine definitely worth considering.Take test rides of all before you go ahead with your purchase, so you make an informed decision.

Autocar India

•1d

Since you travel around 30km on the highway every day, the TVS iQube ST 5.3kWh makes more sense because its larger battery pack gives you a substantial range buffer, meaning you won't need to charge it very often.At higher highway speeds, EVs tend to consume more energy than they do in city conditions, where speeds are generally lower. In that regard, a larger battery pack is a significant advantage.On top of that, the iQube is as straightforward and easy-going as an electric scooter can be. It feels very much like a conventional scooter to ride and live with, apart from the EV-specific traits of silent operation and instant torque. It has also built a strong reputation in the market, with very few issues reported so far, and it benefits from the backing of an established manufacturer like TVS.