I am a new learner and am planning to buy a two-wheeler in Pune. With so many options available, I am quite confused. I want something that is not too heavy and is smooth to ride, as I will be commuting 30-40 km every day. I also want a reliable engine that does not require frequent maintenance or servicing, as I plan to keep the vehicle for as long as possible. I am 5ft 7in, so it should also be suitable for my height. I would prefer an ethanol-compatible petrol two-wheeler that will not give me trouble. Which bike or scooter would be suitable for me?

autocar.india

•11h

An updated Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 has been on the cards for quite some time, and yes, twin front disc brakes are quite likely to be part of the package. This setup has been spotted on quite a few test mules in the past and should likely improve the Inty's stopping performance - something that has been a point of contention for owners for many years now. RE is likely to focus its energies on the upcoming Himalayan 750, which is due to be launched at its MotoVerse festival, after which we could perhaps see this updated Interceptor launched.

autocar.india

•16h

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

•12h

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.