Hi Autocar, I currently ride a Yamaha FZ and want to replace it with a Triumph Speed 400, but the problem is that the Triumph dealership is not in my city (Bathinda). My question is: should I purchase it from a dealership located about 130 km away? Will it be a sensible choice considering service and maintenance?

autocar.india

•5h

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

•2d

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.

autocar.india

•4d

The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is a sporty roadster that is good fun daily, and it's reasonably practical and comfortable for commuting duties too. Whether this is the right choice for you is a question only you can answer, and the way we'd recommend you go about it is to take a test ride of the bike and see if it fits into your orbit. Some points to bear in mind in traffic: the Guerrilla's clutch is a little heavy, and its engine's bottom end is a little weak. But on the flip side, it has a punchy mid and top-end and its handling is very engaging and surefooted too. If you want to consider a more commuter-friendly alternative to the Guerrilla, try out the 350cc Triumph Speed 400, which doesn't have as much outright performance, but it's better suited to commute on and is also more comfortable. A test ride of these two should help you determine which is the better fit for you. Do write back if you think neither is a good fit, and we'll be happy to recommend different options!