BSA Gold Star 650

Autocar India

•4w

The BSA Scrambler 650 is a new launch in India and its long-term reliability still remains unconfirmed. While the engine is largely the same as the Gold Star and shouldn't throw any unwelcome surprises, the rest of the bike is significantly different and it would be prudent to wait a while before you pull the trigger on it.Another important factor to consider is that BSA’s network here is still quite limited, and parts and service access need to be readily available when it comes to your daily ride. Add to the fact that Classic Legends has so far not been free from its share of customer complaints related to service and parts availability. We would advise you to consider other machines in the class or if you have your heart set on the BSA, at the very least, defer your purchase by 6 months to see how the market reacts to it.

Autocar India

•19w

If you want a 650cc bike that can be used daily, the models at the forefront are the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and BSA Gold Star 650. Both have torquey engines - albeit ones that sound and behave very differently - with upright ergonomics making them a good fit for daily usage. Do bear in mind that both bikes are much heavier than your current Honda CB350 H'ness and will demand some caution before you get used to their size and heft.If you want something a little more unique, then the Kawasaki Z650 or Z650RS makes for genuinely usable big bikes. While their prices are more than double those of the Royal Enfield and BSA, they really are hassle-free, punchy, well-built machines that will serve you well for a long time.One thing to note with the Kawasaki 650s is that they have low ground clearance, which could be a factor that influences your purchase if your city doesn't have good roads.