I am planning to upgrade from my current bike, on which I have clocked over 1 lakh kilometres. I have been considering the TVS Apache RTX 300 for a long time, but after a recent transfer to Mumbai, I am unsure if it would be suitable as a daily commuter, especially given its wider stance. My daily commute is around 30km in city traffic, along with a monthly 100-200km ride. I am looking for a reliable, low-maintenance motorcycle. I would also like to know Rishaad’s view on choosing between the Xpulse and the RTX for daily commuting, as he can relate to these concerns.

Autocar India

•8w

Both bikes have their pros and cons when it comes to city usage. The Hero Xpulse 210 is slimmer and more manageable, but throws quite a bit of noticeable heat on the left side of your leg. If you’re comfortable with the size of the TVS Apache RTX 300, that’s the one we’d recommend of the two.

However, in both cases, it’s too early to comment on reliability, and there are complaints online with the Xpulse, although our long-term test bike has not faced any issues in the 3,000km we’ve run it yet. Overall, the RTX will feel like a more premium, better-made bike that gives you a lot more for your money. You’ll also have the peace of mind of tubeless tyres.

On the flip side, the Xpulse has a lightweight and fun character that you will especially enjoy if a bit of off-road riding forms a part of your usage. It would be best to take test rides of both and hold off on your purchase for about six months to see how the reliability situation plays out. Especially since you are used to having a bike that has served you well for so long! - Rishaad

Explore bikes mentioned

Hero MotoCorp

Xpulse 210

from ₹1.80 Lakh

TVS

Apache RTX

from ₹2.18 Lakh

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Latest questions people are discussing

Rayvonne Gonsalves

•1w

I currently own a Dominar 250 and was looking for an upgrade. Want a comfortable bike for city 70% and highways 30%. On long rides the Dominar seats feel very hard and I need frequent breaks. I checked out the Honda CB350C and Hness but didn't find the ride quality so impressive. I'm 5ft 6in and have tested the Triumph speed 400 and Scrambler 400x and have made up my mind to go for the Scrambler 400X. But since theres a lot of buzz around that the same will be discontinued to make way for 350cc models, would it be wise to wait for it? Another option im looking for is the TVS Apache RTX 300. What would you suggest?

Autocar India

•4d

The Triumph Scrambler 400 X that you have shortlisted is a good one bike to do it all. If you have your heart set on it, you should indeed hurry up and get one soon before the 350cc replacement is launched in the coming months. While its slightly smaller successor will be identical in most ways, the smaller engine with likely reduced performance could affect performance at highway speeds. So it's better to go for the 400cc model while you can. The TVS Apache RTX 300 is another great all-rounder, and if you are ready to deal with its size and weight, then you should absolutely consider it. Do bear in mind that for someone of your stature, the RTX could prove to be a little much inside the city at slower speeds. So we would recommend a thorough test ride before you make a decision. Another option worth considering is the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450. It has a very approachable 780mm seat height, which will be helpful for you and has good performance and comfort for both city and highway usage. Since all the bikes you're considering are quite different, take a test ride of each before making a decision.

Triumph Scrambler 400 X

TVS Apache RTX

Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450

Dipak

•6d

Greetings. My TVS Jupiter currently comes with 90mm tyres on both the front and rear. Can I upgrade to slightly wider 100 mm tyres for better ride quality and handling?

Autocar India

•3d

Since you're looking at just a small upsize in your tyre sizes, you can go ahead and replace the tyres of your Jupiter with 100-section units from the stock 90-section ones. It will help give you more sure-footed handling as well as a slight improvement in ride quality. The flip side to this change will be that wider tyres will increase rolling resistance, which is going to have a small but noticeable negative impact on fuel efficiency. Another point to bear in mind is that the scooter's steering will feel heavier in general, but especially at slower speeds.

TVS Jupiter

Navneet Kumar

•5d

Hi Autocar, I am looking to buy a motorcycle in the 300-400cc segment with a retro design and good performance. I am considering the Jawa 42 FJ. Is it a good choice in this segment? Also, are there any reliability or long-term ownership issues with Jawa motorcycles that I should be aware of?

Autocar India

•3d

The Jawa 42 FJ is a good option to consider in the neo-retro space. While the earlier Jawa bikes had some issues, the latest models have ironed them out to a large extent. The 42 FJ also comes with a 4-year / 50,000km warranty, which should give you added peace of mind. Do bear in mind that while the bikes have come a long way, Classic Legends (the parent company of Jawa, Yezdi and BSA) still has a fairly hit/miss reputation when it comes to service. So we'd recommend getting in touch with your nearest authorised dealership and finding out more for yourself. If you reconsider your decision to go with the Jawa, then the Triumph Speed T4 is a great alternative. It has a smooth and torquey engine, good build quality and similiar overall performance as the 42 FJ. It would also be wise to take a test ride of both before you make a decision.

Jawa 42 FJ

Triumph Speed T4

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