Honda Hornet 750 Standard

Since you are a beginner rider, getting a bike that is approachable and easy to live with would be our recommendation. Bikes like the Yamaha MT-15 and Honda Hornet 2.0 - both in your shortlist - will offer approachable performance and weight while being quite fuel efficient too. 

The Bajaj Dominar 400 - while a sorted bike in its own right - is a heavy machine, which will get quite tiring to manage at slow speeds for a newer rider. Instead, we'd recommend you take a look at the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, which offers more performance and features while being significantly lighter.

In case you decide that the power and relatively low fuel economy of a 400cc bike isn't for you, but you still don't want to go below 200cc and want something sharp-looking, we'd recommend taking a look at the Bajaj Pulsar N250 and Pulsar NS200. The N250 is a refined, smooth all-rounder, while the NS200 is an engaging and sporty machine. 

A test ride should help you make a more informed decision. 

Unfortunately, within your budget, you won't find a brand-new machine from a reputed Japanese or European maker on the market today. In fact, some of the most affordable big bikes in India, like the Kawasaki 650s, Triumph Trident 660 and the Honda CB750 Hornet, all start above the Rs 7 lakh (ex-showroom) mark, with GST 2.0 partly contributing to this.

If you are open to the idea of a used machine, you will find Kawasaki Z650 / Ninja 650 and perhaps even a Honda CBR650F in your budget. Do bear in mind that you need to be cautious and do a thorough background check on these machines. Because a replacement mechanical part will cost you a pretty penny. And these older bikes also won't be E20 petrol compatible, so that's another factor to consider. 

Since you own a KTM 390 Duke and have spoken about its performance, we'll put that parameter at the forefront when recommending some options. The Kawasaki Z650, while a quick, light and premium machine, can feel a little dull if you're stepping up from the fast KTM. While the Honda CB / CBR 650 models are now knocking on the door of 100hp, they are also quite heavy machines, and the engine is rather peaky, which means that you'll really have to work for the performance. 

In the Honda lineup, we suggest you look at the CB750 Hornet, as that is a punchy and lightweight machine that will feel like a good step up from the 390 Duke. 

You can also take a look at the Suzuki GSX-8R because even though its spec sheet is quite modest, in the real world, this is a very fun machine that doesn't sacrifice practicality too much. Another option in the same segment is the Triumph Daytona 660, which is also a relaxed, real-world usable sportbike with engaging performance. 

If you want to break the 100hp barrier well and truly, bikes like the Triumph Street Triple R and Kawasaki Z900 are the most affordable options. The former is an accomplished track machine, while the latter will be a sublime road bike owing to its creamy smooth engine and plush suspension.

We recommend a thorough test ride of all bikes before you choose to go ahead.