Autocar India
•34w

I currently own the KTM Duke 390 Gen 3 and want to upgrade, but I’m confused about which bike to choose. I feel I might miss the Duke’s power and performance. I am considering the Kawasaki Z650 or Honda 650 as upgrade options. Please advise.

Verified
•29w

Since you own a KTM 390 Duke and have spoken about its performance, we'll put that parameter at the forefront when recommending some options. The Kawasaki Z650, while a quick, light and premium machine, can feel a little dull if you're stepping up from the fast KTM. While the Honda CB / CBR 650 models are now knocking on the door of 100hp, they are also quite heavy machines, and the engine is rather peaky, which means that you'll really have to work for the performance. 

In the Honda lineup, we suggest you look at the CB750 Hornet, as that is a punchy and lightweight machine that will feel like a good step up from the 390 Duke. 

You can also take a look at the Suzuki GSX-8R because even though its spec sheet is quite modest, in the real world, this is a very fun machine that doesn't sacrifice practicality too much. Another option in the same segment is the Triumph Daytona 660, which is also a relaxed, real-world usable sportbike with engaging performance. 

If you want to break the 100hp barrier well and truly, bikes like the Triumph Street Triple R and Kawasaki Z900 are the most affordable options. The former is an accomplished track machine, while the latter will be a sublime road bike owing to its creamy smooth engine and plush suspension.

We recommend a thorough test ride of all bikes before you choose to go ahead. 

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Honda Hornet 750

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More questions on similar bikes

•6d

I’m planning to buy a motorcycle. I’m 5 feet 11 inches tall and weigh 95 kg. My daily commute is around 40-45 km. Initially, I was considering the Honda H'ness CB350, but it’s quite expensive. Then I thought about the Honda Unicorn, but it feels too basic and lacks excitement. The Yamaha FZ series seems a bit over-styled to me. I also rode the TVS Apache RTR 180 2V, but considering my height, it felt too small. Now I’m confused between the Bajaj Pulsar 180 (OG) and the Bajaj Pulsar N160. The Pulsar 180 offers excellent value for money, while the N160 comes with many modern features. However, since I’ll also be riding with my family, I’m leaning towards the Pulsar 180 because of its long, single-piece seat, which is more comfortable for both the rider and the pillion. I’d really appreciate your suggestions and guidance on which one would be the better choice. @autocar.india

Verified
•2d

Between the two Pulsar models you have shortlisted, the N160 would be our pick. Not only does it have the more modern mechanical fundamentals, the better feature-set and will be more fuel efficient, but also it comes in multiple variants, which have a single-piece seat, which should address your concerns about travelling with a pillion. Since you mentioned you like the Honda CB350 but it wasn't fitting in your budget, take a look at the Royal Enfield Hunter 350. The Hunter is much more affordable than the CB350 but will give you similar comfort, performance and form factor. It is also a proven commodity, which means realistically, in the long-term, your ownership should be free of any unwelcome surprises. Take test rides of both the N160 and Hunter, and depending on your budget and preference, make your decision.

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•5d

I want to buy a bike for my son. I prefer the Royal Enfield Bullet 350, while my son prefers the Honda CB350. My main concerns are comfort and safety. I have heard that the Bullet's chain tends to come off easily while riding. Mileage is not a concern. Please suggest a better 350cc bike within a budget of 2.5-3 lakh.

Verified
•3d

Since the bike is for your son and he prefers the Honda CB350, it would be advisable to go for the Honda over the Royal Enfield Bullet 350. The CB350 is a lighter machine than the Bullet and also has an easier clutch pull thanks to its slip/assist clutch, both of which are tangible factors in Honda's favour. Fuel economy should be largely similar on both, with perhaps a small advantage for the Honda, although mileage is something that varies based on a multitude of factors. About the chain story on the Bullet 350, that is an old gossip. On the new model, it is highly unlikely to happen as long as the chain is adjusted correctly and lubricated at the recommended intervals, just like any other motorcycle.To be sure, take test rides of the CB350 and Bullet back to back to ensure you go for the bike that suits you better.

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•6d

I own a Harley-Davidson X440. I feel the stock tyres don't offer enough grip, and the brakes are not particularly impressive. Otherwise, I really like the bike. Should I switch to different tyres or brake pads?

Verified
•22h

To improve the braking performance of your Harley-Davidson X440, we would first recommend replacing the brake fluid with the manufacturer-recommended grade and upgrading to high-quality sintered brake pads from brands such as EBC, SBS or Vesrah, if you can. For a better grip, consider swapping to better tyres from brands like Pirelli, Metzeler, Vredestein, etc., from your stock ones, but do not upsize as that can fundamentally impact the bike's handling.

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Popular discussions right now

•1w

I want to buy an EV scooter with a budget of Rs. 60,000. My requirements are minimal, as I travel less than 10 km daily. However, I want a reliable EV scooter with good safety and long-term performance. Please suggest a suitable and reliable EV scooter within this budget.

Verified
•6d

Since your budget is extremely tight but you want a reliable electric scooter, your only option would be to buy models like the Vida VX2 Go or TVS iQube or Ather Rizta via the BaaS (Battery as a Subscription) model. Going for an electric scooter from reputed brands like Hero, TVS and Ather gives you the peace of mind of knowing that you have one of the largest sales and service networks in the country and should you encounter an issue, help will likely not be too far.Take test rides of these scooters, figure out which one fits into your budget (including the BaaS monthly payment) and then decide for yourself, which is the best option.

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•1w

Is the Honda Hornet 2.0 better than the Bajaj Pulsar N160? I'm confused about which one to buy.

Verified
•6d

Both the Honda Hornet 2.0 and Bajaj Pulsar N160 have similar performance and fuel economy in the real world, so picking between the two will boil down to which bike's design, comfort, features and overall ownership experience you prefer. The N160 is also considerably more affordable than the Hornet, and, at the Hornet's price, you could even consider the larger Pulsar N250.However, Honda bikes are generally known for their hassle-free ownership experience with bulletproof long-term reliability and low maintenance costs. Bajaj's ownership costs, too, are quite frugal, but service can be a point of friction.Take test rides of both bikes and also speak to your nearest authorised dealer and service center for both brands before you make your decision.

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•5d

Is the Honda Transalp XL750 E-Clutch variant E20 compatible, or is it only compatible with E5/E10 fuel like the previous model?

Verified
•3d

All new two-wheelers sold in India have to compulsorily be compatible with E20 fuel, so the Honda Transalp 750 E-Clutch you have asked about will be compliant. Since it is an imported machine, the stickers on the fuel tank may say E5/E10, but the mechanics have been upgraded to be E20 compatible.

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Posted on: 19 Dec 2025