TVS Apache RR 310

TVS has been giving the Apache RR 310 an update almost every year since it came out, improving small areas like refinement, features and adding more colours too. Today's Apache RR 310 is a feature-loaded machine which has significantly improved NVH levels, although it's still a single-cylinder machine. So, you will have to deal with some vibrations in certain bands of the rev range. 

Since you seem to prefer a twin-cylinder sportbike experience over a single and have the budget to go for it, the Kawasaki Ninja 500 is a bike we'd recommend you seriously consider. It has reasonably comfortable ergonomics and decently compliant suspension for daily usage. Its 451cc, twin-cylinder engine has a healthy spread of mid-range grunt, and it will also be fun to chase the redline, given some open tarmac. 

Yes, Kawasaki bikes are expensive to maintain, but that's something you will have to make peace with if you want a twin-cylinder sportbike today. You can also rest easy about E20 compatibility because all new bikes and scooters sold in India are compatible with our fuel. 

If you don't think the Ninja 500 justifies its high price tag, then move up to the little more expensive but quite a bit more capable Ninja 650. It is one of the few big bikes on sale in India that can genuinely be used on a day-to-day basis. As long as you're mindful of the low ground clearance and expensive rims.  

Coming to the TVS/BMW 450cc sportbike, an official launch is unlikely to happen anytime soon, considering we have only just spotted a heavily camouflaged test mule for the first time. 

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The Kawasaki Ninja 500 is a great sportsbike at a very steep price, just like its predecessor, the Ninja 400. If you can stretch for the Ninja, it is a capable, refined, comfortable and reliable machine which will serve you well. Do bear in mind that Kawasaki spares and service have a reputation for being on the pricey side and that the company's dealer network is quite small across the country. 

The Aprilia RS 457 is a truly great sportsbike, but because of its focused nature, it won't be the best fit on broken city roads. Another aspect to consider is that the 457cc engine has been reported to have multiple reliability issues that keep recurring. So, we would recommend you not go with the RS.

The Honda CBR500R is not sold in India, so it shouldn't factor into your decision. 

The Kawasaki Ninja 300 is a machine that thoroughly feels its age today, but remains a unique offering in the class with its twin-cylinder engine. The single-cylinder TVS Apache RR 310 will feel quite dull to ride in comparison to these twin-cylinder machines. But it is also much more affordable and easier to maintain. 

Take a test ride to decide which bike is better for you.