Which is better between the KTM 390 and the Himalayan 450? Or is it better to wait for Norton?

Autocar India

•34m

The 350cc Triumph Speed 400 may not have the outright performance it once used to have, and is certainly slower than the Guerrilla 450 now, but even so, it remains a comfortable machine with sprightly performance and its refinement should also see a small improvement. However, if you don't have a Triumph dealer near you, opting for one wouldn't be the wisest thing to do.Yes, the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is more expensive than the Speed 400 and doesn't have traction control, but unless you are a very inexperienced rider or ride through bad patches of road extensively, you are realistically unlikely to miss this feature. The Guerrilla is definitely the more engaging and sportier machine of the two, and for the small price increment it commands over the Speed, the added oomph is well worth it.Take test rides of both to see which one suits you better and then make your decision. If you don't have a Triumph service centre near you, ask the dealership if someone will visit your residence/office to service the bike and make sure to opt for the roadside assistance.

Autocar India

•22h

We'd recommend going for the TVS Apache RR 310 over the BMW G 310 RR because even though both are pretty much identical, TVS gives you a slightly more refined package at a lower price and with lower service costs in the long run than the BMW bike. TVS has refined and upgraded the RR 310 multiple times since it was launched adding more features, power and better components over time, whereas the G 310 RR remains the same since it came out in 2022. Like for like, the TVS bike comes with better tyres than the BMW, will cost a fair deal lesser, which in our books, immediately tilts the scales in favour of the Apache. TVS also has a much wider service network and parts are easier on the pocket, so living with the bike in the long run will be easier and more pocket-friendly. One thing to bear in mind is that TVS' showroom experience can be a little hit or miss, so pick a dealer with generally strong service reviews.Choosing the BMW G 310 RR only makes sense if you value what badge your bike wears and you are alright with paying more upfront and at service for a slightly older package.

Autocar India

•17h

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.