When will the RE Interceptor 650 facelift launch? I am waiting for the updated version. If so, can we expect a twin-front-rotor setup?

autocar.india

•5h

Given your build and your requirements, your options boil down to choosing between the Hero Xpulse 210 and the newly launched Honda XR300L. The Xpulse has been around for a while and we know what works and doesn't on that bike - its a known commodity. The XR300L, on the other hand, is not only an unfamiliar product, its also Honda's first entry into this segment of the market. Our previous experience with the CB300F (with which the XR300L shares its engine, although there are numerous differences between both) tells us that this Honda engine is peppy, reasonably fuel efficient and can hold a quick - but not breakneck - pace on the highway. If we were in your shoes, we'd wait a few months for the XR300s' deliveries to begin, take a test ride and then choose between it and the Xpulse.

autocar.india

•1h

Given your priorities of pillion comfort, relaxed ergonomics, reliability and 4-cylinder smoothness, the Kawasaki Versys 1100 seems like a shoo-in for your requirements. It is a superb long-distance touring machine with supremely comfortable ergonomics and a smooth inline-four engine that is well suited to effortless highway cruising. Kawasaki’s service network is quite widespread (in the context of big bikes in India), and the Versys is generally known for reasonable maintenance costs compared to its European rivals.Honestly, even the Ninja 1100SX deserves to be considered because it is a supremely refined and comfortable machine too, while being a good deal lighter than the Versys. Since it is a conventional sport tourer, the wind buffeting issue which plagues most adventure bikes / tall rounders is also not present here, aiding its mile-munching capabilities. The only small - but manageable - worry is the 135mm ground clearance number, but if you're cautious you can tackle most Indian roads without too much trouble.The Triumph Tiger 900 is a very capable adventure tourer with a strong triple-cylinder engine, but it does not offer the same level of refinement or comfort as the Versys, although in isolation its really quite impressive. The Tiger will be a good deal lighter than the Versys (and other options you've shortlisted) and will therefore be easier to manage.Both the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure and Honda Africa Twin are discontinued models, and you'll have to scour the used market for a clean example. Beware that the big bike used market is quite hit-or-miss, and it's easy to get misled, so be extra cautious when looking at used examples of both.

autocar.india

•2h

Based on your requirements, the Triumph Speed T4 would be our recommendation. It strikes the best balance between daily comfort and weekend touring capability. The riding position is upright and relaxed, making it easy to live with in the city, while the engine is punchy enough for highway cruising and overtakes while simultaneously having a lovely low- and mid-range pull which helps in city traffic. It also feels more modern and engaging than the Honda CB350, which is a relaxed neo-retro but not as versatile or exciting to ride.If you can make the stretch for the Speed 400, certainly do, as it brings in better componentry, higher levels of fit & finish and more performance to the table while retaining all the strong points of the T4. The TVS Apache RTX 300 offers near-unbeatable value for money and, on paper, is very hard to fault. However, for all its strengths, it is plagued by some reliability concerns and after-sales issues, which make it hard to put our faith in it.