I’m a beginner rider, 5′6″ tall, planning to buy a new bike next year. My first choice is the Triumph Scrambler 400X - I’ve had my eyes on it since early 2024. However, I’m also considering the newly launched TVS RTX 300 because of its overall package, including a quick shifter and cruise control. I need the bike for daily office commutes, occasional weekend rides, and some soft trail riding. I won’t regret buying either, but I’d like to hear expert opinions to help decide.

Autocar India

•5d

The Honda CB350 H'ness is a great retro-looking option for your commuting needs with its upright posture, plush suspension and smooth, torquey engine. It also has light controls (like the clutch and steering), which make it a breeze to ride inside choc-a-bloc city traffic. On the other hand, the Triumph Scrambler 400 X (and the upcoming 350 X) both will have more commanding ergonomics, more sophisticated suspension damping and a much higher performance ceiling. Another point to consider is the tall 835mm seat height the Scrambler ships with, which could be a pain point if you're shorter and not familiar enough with taller, heavier machines. Coming to your last option, the lightly used 2025 Speed 400 (1,500 km), if the bike is accident‑free with service proof and under warranty, then even this roadster can be a good purchase. It will have similiar performance to the Scrambler but will be a more manageable machine owing to its lower overall height, making it well-suited to city commuting. A test ride of these three will help you see for yourself which one you prefer the most.

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.

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.