Triumph Speed 400 MY25

Between the three bikes you've shortlisted, all three are comfortable for city use, but they all sit at very different price points, and it wouldn't be right to compare the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V with the Honda CB350RS and Triumph Speed 400. If you want a straightforward commuter, then sticking to a machine in the 150-160cc space like the aforementioned Apache, Bajaj Pulsar N160, and Honda Unicorn would make sense. 

These bikes will be lighter and easier to manage within the city (which is where you'll spend most of your life), as well as be fuel-efficient and comfortable. 

If instead you do want to look at something more premium, the Honda and Triumph you have shortlisted are also good options. You should also look at the Royal Enfield Classic / Bullet 350 in this segment. These bikes will be larger and more spacious than the 150/160cc options mentioned above, with better build quality, road presence and pillion comfort. 

However, they will demand a little more effort at slow speeds and will also not be as fuel-efficient as the commuters. 

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. 

Since you are looking for a bike that is good for daily commuting as well as long rides, and are presently a Pulsar owner, a good upgrade option would be the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z. The NS400Z is a sporty machine that isn't too aggressive and will also be usable on a day-to-day basis, while entertaining you on longer journeys. It also has an excellent price tag, which means you will come in well under your budget. 

If you want to look elsewhere, options like the KTM 250 / 390 Duke, TVS Apache RTR 310 and Triumph Speed 400 are what we would recommend. The Speed 400 will be the best option inside city limits, but at high speeds, its engine feels a little strained. The Apache and Duke models are good all-rounders with genuine sporting intent and come with a host of techy and feel-good features. 

Take a test ride of the bikes mentioned above to make an informed decision about your next purchase. 

Within your budget, you should look at bikes like the TVS Ronin, Royal Enfield Hunter 350, Honda CB350 and Triumph Speed 400. Of these four, the Speed 400 will be the fastest, but it also offers a good level of comfort and usability for daily use. Its tractable engine, short gearing and light clutch will make it a good city companion. 

The other three bikes are more relaxed in their nature but will still offer a tangible step up from your old Hornet 160, especially in the comfort they offer you. 

Take a test ride of these bikes to see which one suits your riding style best before making a decision. 

Of all the bikes you have shortlisted, the Triumph Speed 400 and Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 will be the most usable without sacrificing performance due to their upright ergonomics and powerful 40hp engines. 

The KTM RC 390 will feel the most at home on winding roads, but inside the city, it won't be the most user-friendly with its canted forward riding position and peaky engine. Speaking of committed ergonomics, the Triumph Thruxton 400 is by far the most uncomfortable machine here. If you plan to use it daily, you will need to put up with a seriously focused riding position.

Coming to the two 310s, the TVS Apache RR 310 has been kept fresh with small updates every year, while the BMW G 310 RR has stayed pretty much the same since it came out. The TVS is also more affordable and packs in more power, features and better componentry, but if you value the BMW badge, then the G 310 RR is the most affordable way into BMW ownership. 

We'd also recommend taking a look at the KTM 390 Duke because it is a bike you can commute on during the week and have fun on during the weekend. 

A test ride should help you decide which is the best bike for you. 

In the price range you're looking at, there are a variety of options in different body styles, so we'll list them out for you. If you want a sporty road bike, then options like the KTM 390 Duke, Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 and Triumph Speed 400 are the way to go. Do bear in mind that the KTM can feel quite cramped for taller riders and, over longer stints in the saddle, this will become even more pronounced. 

If you are leaning toward an adventure bike, you should be looking at the TVS Apache RTX 300, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure models. The RTX will feel the slowest because of its smaller displacement, and it also weighs 180kg. 

Since you have a long commute from time to time and are a taller person, we would recommend you steer clear of sportbikes and cruisers. Also, stick to roadsters or adventure bikes, as they will be more comfortable. 

A test ride of the above mentioned options - and anything else you may shortlist - will help you decide which bike is right for you.