Royal Enfield Bullet 350

The neo-retro segment has different options today to suit varied tastes and requirements. On the traditional end of the spectrum, you have options like the Royal Enfield Bullet / Classic 350 and Honda CB350 models. They are laid-back and comfortable machines which are conducive to relaxed riding. 

On the other hand, if you want something that looks retro but goes like a thoroughly modern machine, the Triumph Speed 400 and Speed T4 come into the picture. The Speed 400 has better componentry, a higher performance ceiling and also costs more. The T4 is a simpler machine, but it still has decent pep in its step, and its engine suits the neo-retro theme more. 

A test ride of these bikes should help you decide which is the best fit for you. 

The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and the TVS Apache RTX 300 are two very different motorcycles. The Meteor is a relaxed cruiser, while the RTX is an adventure bike, a sporty streetfighter.

Objectively speaking, the RTX will be more comfortable and capable in just about every situation you'll find yourself in. However, it is quite a tall machine, so if you are a shorter rider, this could be something to look out for, especially at slower speeds in city traffic. 

Instead of the Meteor, we'd actually recommend considering the Classic / Bullet 350 because they have a more comfortable and upright seating position, which will be more conducive to comfort over your long daily commute. 

A test ride of these bikes will help you figure out which one is best for your needs.  

Of the three bikes you've shortlisted, the Triumph Scrambler 400 X will be the best all-rounder and will also be very easy to ride inside city traffic with its tractable engine and short gearing. 

While the RTX 300 has slightly better suspension travel and composure, it is still a new product, and it would be advisable to wait some months before buying an all-new machine like this, so if there are any teething issues, they can be ironed out. 

If you are open to having a retro riding experience, then the Royal Enfield Bullet / Classic 350 are worth looking at. These are very comfortable machines, although their performance won't be anywhere close to as sprightly as the other bikes you're looking at. 

On the plus side, the Bullet/Classic are much more affordable to purchase. 

We'd recommend a test ride of the RE 350s before you make a decision. 

Since you haven't specified what style of bike you want, nor given some details about your physique, recommending something concrete will not be possible. However, we'll give you a variety of options to choose from, spanning multiple classes. 

In the neo-retro space, you can look at bikes like the Royal Enfield Classic / Bullet / Hunter 350, TVS Ronin, Triumph Speed T4 and Honda CB350 models. These will have a relaxed riding experience and a plush, comfortable ride quality. The Speed T4 will be the quickest and most responsive of them all, but still very manageable for daily use.

If you want something sportier, the KTM 250 Duke makes for a compelling option for your one-bike garage. 

If you're leaning towards the more adventurous side of things, then the Hero Xpulse 210 and the TVS Apache RTX 300 are the way to go. 

It would be advisable to take test rides of all of these bikes to see what style you prefer and which bike you are most comfortable with. 

The Battalion Black is the base variant in the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 lineup and has a simpler finish for certain components and only single-channel ABS owing to its rear drum brake. However, its riding experience should largely be the same as the other variants, and in that sense, it would make for a relaxed, characterful and comfortable motorcycle. 

In many ways, the Honda CB350RS will feel similiar to ride because of its air-cooled engine and plush suspension. But it has a sportier, more engaging seating position and feels a lot lighter on its feet. It also comes with modern conveniences such as tubeless tyres, a slip/assist clutch and all-LED lighting. The CB350RS is also over Rs 30,000 more expensive than the Bullet 350 Battalion Black, so price will play a key role in your purchase decision. 

Picking between the two will boil down to which bike you gel with better. Also, whether you think the Honda deserves the extra money it commands over the Royal Enfield. 

In the 350cc space, bikes like the Royal Enfield Hunter / Classic / Bullet 350 and Honda CB350 trio make for good options considering your mixed usage. All of them have upright ergonomics, comfortable suspension setups and decent fuel economy. 

If you are open to waiting for a few months, Bajaj will be releasing 350cc versions of all the Triumph 400cc bikes. These will offer you noticeably more performance than the aforementioned air-cooled 350s while being priced similarly.