I am writing from Coimbatore. I currently own a Yamaha SZ-R and am looking to upgrade my bike with touring in mind. I have shortlisted the Kawasaki Versys X-300 and the Suzuki V-Strom 250. I am 5 feet 5 inches tall. I test rode the Versys and found it comfortable in terms of ride quality. I am yet to test ride the V-Strom. Budget is not a concern. I am looking for a no-nonsense machine that is comfortable and good to ride. Are there any upcoming bikes I should wait for?

•37w

The Kawasaki Versys X-300 and Suzuki V-Strom 250 are both good options for your requirements. The Versys, with its more powerful twin-cylinder engine, will have the performance and long-distance touring advantage. However, the Suzuki V-Strom is a lot more affordable, and if you are on a tight budget, it makes for a genuinely capable tourer. Both bikes are quite tall, and you will need to get used to the height of these ADVs.

Something to also consider is the Hero Xpulse 210, which has a peppy engine, great suspension, neutral ergonomics, and is the most affordable option of all three. Take a test ride of all three before you decide.

Explore bikes mentioned

Kawasaki

Versys-X 300

from ₹3.98 Lakh

Hero MotoCorp

Xpulse 210

from ₹1.88 Lakh

Suzuki

V-Strom SX

from ₹2.26 Lakh

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•1w

I’m looking for an adventure-segment bike and have been eyeing the Hero Xpulse 210. I recently heard that Honda is planning to launch the CB300 Rally, so should I wait for it? I’ll primarily use the bike for a daily commute of around 10-20 km and occasional weekend long rides, mostly around the city and nearby areas. Given my relatively low daily running, should I increase my budget and consider the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 or KTM 390 Adventure for the occasional longer rides? Which bike would be the best choice for my requirements?

•3d

The Hero Xpulse 210 makes more sense since your daily run is quite limited and long rides are few and far between. This Hero bikes has more than enough performance for both city riding and gentle highway cruising, and will keep you comfortable over the worst of our roads. However, we would advise you to wait for the Honda XR300 Rally because it promises similiar performance and capability with the backing of a Japanese giant. Once the XR is out, take a test ride and see if you gel with it or if the Xpulse makes more sense for you, before you go ahead with your purchase.

Hero MotoCorp Xpulse 210

Honda Bikes XR300 Rally

•10h

Switched my daily commute from the car to a scooter six months ago just to beat traffic, and honestly haven't looked back even once during peak hours.

•1w

I am thinking of getting a new bike after using a TVS Sport 100cc for almost 15 years. I have been interested in sports bikes since childhood, and now that I am settled, I am thinking of getting one. Earlier, I was considering the Kawasaki Ninja 300, but its price has recently increased while offering minimal features and high maintenance costs. For some time, I also considered the Ultraviolette F77, but I am still sceptical about its long-term reliability. The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 has always been on my mind, and I recently visited its showroom. I really like the colours of the SF 150 more than those of the 250, but I also don't want to miss out on the thrill of the 250. I am particularly interested in the SF 250 FFV variant, but it is available in only two colours, neither of which I find very appealing. I really like one of the colours offered on the SF 150, but it isn't available on the 250. I also came across the Suzuki GSX-8R, and it was love at first sight. Now I am wondering if Suzuki could launch a similar bike in the coming months. I am very confused. What should I do?

•2d

The Suzuki Gixxer models (both 150 and 250) are due to get a generation change soon and therefore, buying one of them right now would not be our recommendation. If you want something in a similar displacement and price bracket, then the Bajaj Pulsar N250 would be the closest match.The Hero Xtreme 250R is also a well-priced alternative that rides well and unlocks a whole new spectrum of performance, although Premia dealerships are quite few and far between currently.

Bajaj Pulsar N250

Hero MotoCorp Xtreme 250R

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