I currently own a Bajaj V15 and I am planning to buy a new bike for commuting and occasional long drives. My budget is ₹2 lakh. Please suggest a bike that offers good performance, mileage, and comfort.

Autocar India

•1d

Since you said you like the Ather 450 X but it's out of your budget, we'd recommend taking a look at the 450S. It loses out on some techy features and the more exciting Warp mode you'll get on the 450X, but the rest of the chassis remains the same. You also have the same 90kph top speed on both, and its Sport mode is pretty engaging too.However, for daily usage, we've found the Ather 450 models to be a tad sporty and cramped, so unless performance outweighs practicality for you, we'd steer you toward more practical options like the Rizta, Bajaj Chetak 35 models and the TVS iQube range. Since you've also ridden the River Indie, that could be a great option if practicality is your paramount requirement.You need to decide what matters the most to you, performance or practicality and comfort, and take a call accordingly.

Autocar India

•2d

For a newer rider of shorter stature, we recommend the TVS Zest 110. With a low 760mm seat height and a light 103kg weight, it is one of the most approachable machines available today. More mainstream options, such as the Honda Activa, TVS Jupiter, and Suzuki Access, are also worth considering in the petrol scooter segment, provided your daughter is comfortable with their slightly heavier weight and taller seats.In the electric scooter space, take a look at the TVS Orbiter, which is like the Scooty Zest. It also has a low 760mm seat height, which will be friendly for a shorter and newer rider. The Orbiter comes with two battery capacities - 1.8kWh and 3.1kWh - and since your daily running is rather low, it would be advisable to go with the smaller battery pack. Similarly, the new Bajaj Chetak C2501 also has an approachable 763mm perch, and its lithe build will also give your daughter confidence.A test ride of these is essential to understand which machine your daughter finds easy to get along with. And you'll also need to decide whether you want a petrol-powered scooter or a battery-powered one.

Autocar India

•5d

Since you have said that you have a lower back issue and that you need a comfortable riding position, we'd recommend looking at bikes like the Royal Enfield Hunter / Classic / Bullet 350 instead. The Meteor is a comfortable cruiser, but by virtue of being a cruiser, its feet-forward, relaxed riding position will put more strain on your lower back while going over bad roads. In the Honda 350 lineup, all three machines are very similiar mechanically, and the main differences are in terms of styling, pricing and small feature additions and subtractions. So, we would recommend going with the one you are attracted to the most. A test ride of whatever you shortlist is imperative before you make a decision.