Hi, I’m looking for a motorcycle in the 650cc class for commuting to work in Chennai and occasional touring. I tested the Shotgun and immediately liked it. However, I am concerned about highway comfort compared to the Super Meteor, since I felt I had to lean a bit to reach the handlebars (I’m 5'11"). What would you recommend?

autocar.india

•2h

There is no confirmed date yet for a revised Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650. A test mule of what seemed to be an updated Super Meteor 650 was spotted overseas more than a year ago, and this bike had a different rear suspension than the current bike. The stiff Super Meteor's stiff rear shocks have been a noteworthy complaint from both journalists and owners, although it remains to be seen if and when Royal Enfield updates its flagship.

autocar.india

•3h

While the Harley-Davidson X440 T and Royal Enfield Guerrilla are comparable in terms of displacement and price, both are actually very different animals. The X440 T has a long-stroke, air/oil-cooled, torque-rich thumper which really encourages brisk cruising more than attacking corners. The H-D is also the more laidback and comfortable machine, which will be a valuable USP over rough, patchy roads. If ridden gently on the highway, you could see a fuel economy number in the 27-30kpl ballpark. On the other hand, the Guerrilla is a sporty street naked which will delight you with its punchy performance, agility and surefooted handling. Sure, it may not be as comfortable as the X440 T, but in isolation, it is a comfortable enough machine. If you ride sensibly, the Guerrilla can also give you close to 30kpl on the highway, which is pretty decent considering its displacement and performance on offer. Another option you should consider is the 350cc Triumph Speed 400 / Scrambler 400 duo, depending on what sort of look you want and whether or not you can manage the Scrambler's tall 835mm seat height. The Triumphs will sit between the X440 T and Guerrilla in terms of performance and are comfortable machines for longer journeys. Take test rides of all bikes listed to ensure you make an informed decision.

autocar.india

•6h

An electric scooter is the more practical and frugal way to approach your 40km daily commute, and in that regard, the River Indie will make for a spacious and practical machine with more than sufficient range for your needs. The new Keeway Hypevolt-R is a far more expensive product from an unknown brand, so we wouldn't really recommend it unless you absolutely must have something distinctive and flashy with seriously zippy performance. On the other hand, the petrol-powered motorcycle is a fun way to tackle your 40km commute. The 350cc Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is a really fun machine with its lovely top-end rush of power and crisp handling characteristics. The TVS Apache RTX 300 will be a little slower, but it will compensate for it with far better comfort and features.Really, the choice will come down to what sort of experience you want consistently on your commute, and we'd advise a test ride of the Indie as well as the bikes you've shortlisted before you make your decision.