Hello, I'm Pratik. I wanted to buy a bike mainly for city rides and occasional highway touring for a maximum distance of 500 to 600 km. I am not sure if I would travel any further. That's why I want a capable bike. For that I've chosen Suzuki V-Strom SX as my perfect pick but I'm getting confused as Autocar India suggested someone to wait for the 2027 update as Suzuki is working on new generation Gixxer 250. I am also confused as my father is suggesting Classic 350 because he says the parts availability will not be an issue and it's a tried and tested bike. Kindly help me as I can wait if there will be any update in V-Strom SX.

autocar.india

•1h

Considering your build and your specific needs as well as usage, we'd recommend choosing between the Triumph Scrambler 400 X and Suzuki V-Strom SX. Given that you travel with a pillion occasionally and want an upgrade from your current 150cc bike, both will offer a step up, although to varying degrees.The V-Strom SX offers trademark Suzuki strengths like being easy to ride, inexpensive to own, good fuel efficiency if ridden sensibly and being a reliable machine that will last you for many years. Its compromises are that its smaller engine will obviously lack the poke of the bigger Triumph, and it is a simple machine with no real frills (which could even be considered a plus point if you like simple machines). The V-Strom is also far more affordable to purchase, which is a definite plus point for someone stepping up from a 150cc bike.The 350cc Scrambler 400 X will - unsurprisingly - offer more spirited performance and better high-speed manners given its more sophisticated chassis and will also feel like the better finished product of the two. Its handling is pleasantly engaging for the sort of bike it is, and since you mentioned you value those attributes in your current bike, this will appeal to you. Downsides to the Scrambler include higher ownership costs, lower fuel economy and its pillion perch is slightly smaller than the Suzuki's, although not bad in isolation.To make a definitive decision between the two, a test ride will be helpful.

autocar.india

•3d

The TVS Apache RTX 300 is surely the more capable, feature-rich and well-rounded motorcycle of the two bikes you have shortlisted. However, TVS' after-sales network is infamous for having a hit-or-miss experience and add to that, the RTX itself has been experiencing concerning issues almost a year after its launch. The KTM 250 Adventure might not be as enticing a proposition as the RTX on paper, but it remains the safer buy because it comes from a brand with a proven track record, and the bike itself has also not been reported as having widespread reliability concerns.

autocar.india

•3d

Go for the Tata Punch Accomplished Plus S CNG AMT. The Punch’s high ground clearance and SUV-like stance make it far better suited to bad roads and monsoon conditions than the Honda Amaze. The factory-fitted CNG system is also a big advantage. It’s fully integrated, covered by the manufacturer's warranty, and you avoid the potential reliability and warranty complications that can come with aftermarket kits. The AMT gearbox is not as smooth as Honda’s CVT, but it is reliable and gets the job done in city traffic.The Punch also gives you the peace of mind of a top-spec variant from day one, so you won’t feel like you’re missing out on features later. The Amaze VX CVT is a good car, but retrofitting CNG to a top model is not as clean a solution, and the low ground clearance is a real drawback for your usage.

Tata Punch

Honda Amaze