I own a Harley-Davidson X440. I feel the stock tyres don't offer enough grip, and the brakes are not particularly impressive. Otherwise, I really like the bike. Should I switch to different tyres or brake pads?

autocar.india

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While the 250cc Suzuki bikes are undoubtedly good machines, we'd recommend you hold off on that because Suzuki is readying an all-new Gixxer lineup which will debut at the end of this year and these will be next-gen models which will bring in a host of functional improvements. If you can't wait that long, we'd recommend looking at the Bajaj Pulsar N250, which is a sorted machine and will serve you well. Do bear in mind that coming from your twin-cylinder Interceptor 650, these smaller, single-cylinder 250s will feel like a big step down and you may perhaps wish for something slightly more substantial and premium feeling after a while. Instead of downsizing so severely, you should look at the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 which will be pleasant and comfortable to use inside the city but will still give you a premium, feel-good experience which the smaller bikes won't be able to match. Since you're intimately acquainted with RE ownership, the Hunter will slot in nicely into your life as well. Take a test ride of these bikes to see which one fits your usage better ultimately and then make your decision.

autocar.india

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Between the two Pulsar models you have shortlisted, the N160 would be our pick. Not only does it have the more modern mechanical fundamentals, the better feature-set and will be more fuel efficient, but also it comes in multiple variants, which have a single-piece seat, which should address your concerns about travelling with a pillion. Since you mentioned you like the Honda CB350 but it wasn't fitting in your budget, take a look at the Royal Enfield Hunter 350. The Hunter is much more affordable than the CB350 but will give you similar comfort, performance and form factor. It is also a proven commodity, which means realistically, in the long-term, your ownership should be free of any unwelcome surprises. Take test rides of both the N160 and Hunter, and depending on your budget and preference, make your decision.

autocar.india

•1d

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!