I am personally fond of naked bikes like the Dominar 400, Yamaha FZ series, MT-15, Hornet, etc. I am a beginner shifting from a scooter to a bike, so I need advice on which should be my first naked bike. I am attracted to the Dominar 400 because of its bulky, muscular looks. Is it a good idea to go ahead with that, or should I start with some other naked bike? Please advise.

autocar.india

•13h

You have a lot of varying options within your budget, so pick based on your preferences after a comprehensive test ride of each option. The Honda CB350 models and Royal Enfield Classic / Bullet / Hunter 350 are good options to consider in the neo-retro space with their comfortable seats, plush suspension and neutral ergonomics. Their engines aren't the most powerful, but they have good torque and make for an effortless riding experience.If you want a more off-road capable machine, then the Hero Xpulse 210 is a great option to consider. The Xpulse is a tall machine, but it is quite light and will have the best comfort over bad roads of all the bikes mentioned. If you decide you want a straightforward commuter with a little more pep than your Pulsar 180, then the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and Bajaj Pulsar N250 are good picks. They will feel similar to your 180 in their seating but will be a step up in terms of comfort, performance, refinement and features. As we said above, these bikes are very different from each other, and the best way to decide between them is through a comprehensive test ride.

autocar.india

•1d

Strictly from performance and striking visuals standpoints, the Ather 450 Apex would be our recommendation. The 450 Apex is extremely zippy, handles well and has many feel good features which will make you appreciate it in the long run. However, it is quite a cramped machine for taller riders and its suspension is also quite stiff. If you want something more palatable for daily use and don't mind sacrificing some outright performance, take a look at the Ather Rizta Z 3.7 and TVS iQube S 4.7 / ST 5.3 variants. The Rizta will have more tech while the iQube will be the more traditonal scooter, so picking between the two will come down to which experience you resonate with more. Take test rides of these models before you make your decision to make an informed one.

autocar.india

•1d

Depending on your budget, the answer to your question will vary widely. If you can stretch up to Rs 5 lakh, options like the KTM 390 Adventure S and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 are our prime picks in the adventure tourer segment. They have punchy performance, good handling (KTM has the edge over RE here) and have enough comfort to tackle everything Indian roads can throw at you (RE is better here than KTM).If you want to stay below Rs 3 lakh, options like the TVS Apache RTX 300, Honda CB350 models, and Royal Enfield Classic/Bullet 350 should be the ones you take a test ride on. The RTX will feel faster and more capable, but the 350s have a different charm with their slow-revving motors and appealing design.Take test rides of all these machines before you make your decision.