I’m a beginner (5'6") planning to buy a bike next year. My top choice is the Triumph Scrambler 400X, which I’ve admired since early 2024. I’m torn between that and the newly launched TVS Apache RTX 300, which offers cruise control and a bi-directional quick shifter. I’ll use the bike for daily office commutes, occasional weekend rides, and some soft-trail riding. Which one should I pick — and are there other expert-recommended alternatives?

Since you are a beginner, we'd suggest that you start with something a little less powerful and easier to manage. As you've mentioned that you have an interest in mild off-road riding, the Hero Xpulse 210 would be a great place to start. It is a fun bike to ride, very comfortable in the city, and it will be a good motorcycle for you to hone your off-road skills on. Once you've gained some confidence, you can look at bigger ADV motorcycles. But if your heart is set on one of the above two bikes that you mentioned, we'd recommend you try out the Apache RTX 300.