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?

Autocar India

•3d

Since you've said you prefer cruisers and commute in heavy traffic, of the three bikes you've shortlisted, the Honda CB350 will fit your usage the best. With its low seat, light clutch action and surefooted yet easy handling demeanour, the CB350 makes for a wonderful city companion. Its engine is smooth and torquey, and when ridden sensibly, it returns very impressive fuel economy for a 350cc machine. Plus, seating comfort for both rider and pillion is also quite nice, although if you carry a pillion frequently, it would be prudent to invest in a backrest - it should be a relatively inexpensive option to purchase.The Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350 is a beautiful motorcycle, but to achieve its gorgeous form, there are some functional compromises. It is by no means a horribly uncomfortable machine, but in comparison to its more conventional siblings - Classic and Bullet 350 - it is surely a step down. Pillion accommodations, too, are mediocre at best, and the main draw here is its unique design. The TVS Apache RTX 300 is the odd one out here and will feel very different to the other bikes you've shortlisted. It has a modern, liquid-cooled engine making substantially more peak output and a 6-speed gearbox. Outright comfort will be another strong point on the RTX, and this is likely to be the most comfortable machine of the lot, owing to its form factor. We'd recommend a test ride of all these bikes before you make a decision, and you should also decide what sort of bike you want before you do so.

Autocar India

•3d

We'd advise taking a look at the TVS Apache RTX 300 for your needs. The RTX's liquid-cooled engine has lovely heat management, and it's unlikely that you'll face any engine heat-related issues on this machine. The RTX's seats are also wide, spacious and well-padded, which should be conducive to two-up comfort. We'd recommend you go for the middle RTX variant as that has everything you'll need and more. If you want a bike that keeps it simple, then the Suzuki V-Strom SX is a severely underrated machine. It has spacious seats, and while its suspension came off the Gixxer 250, it is a well-judged unit which will keep you comfortable over most road surfaces you'll encounter. Additionally, the V-Strom SX is a good deal lighter than the RTX, which should make it easy to manage at slower speeds. If your bank’s pre-closure cost is high, keep the Triumph till this summer ends and swap before October. Otherwise, switch now.Take a test ride of both machines before you make your decision to see which one suits you better.

Autocar India

•1d

Since you value a lower kerb weight and manageability, between the Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX and Versys 1100, we'd advise you to choose the Ninja. Yes, the Ninja has a slightly more committed riding position than the armchair-like ergonomics of the Versys, but it's a small difference and is unlikely to be the cause of back pain in the long run. Comparing the Ninja 1100SX to the new Z900, the latter has a more canted-forward riding position, which is perhaps the reason you experienced back pain after riding it. Also, bear in mind that if you anchor yourself to the bike using your legs to grip the tank, alleviating the pressure on the handlebars, it can make a world of difference over a longer duration.The Ninja 1100SX is a sweet, capable, comfortable and feature-rich machine which can balance city duties with touring capabilities and seems like it would be a good fit for your needs.