Some time ago, a test mule of the Royal Enfield Super Meteor was spotted testing overseas with different rear shock absorbers. Moreover, considering its stiff ride has been one of the few complaints we've levied against it, this could potentially fix that issue. 

Considering that the Super Meteor 650 has been unchanged since its launch in early 2023, Royal Enfield could update it this year. However, there's no official confirmation from the brand regarding this. 

The Keeway V302C is a unique offering with its V-twin engine and mean, bobber looks, and it is also a rare sight on our roads, which might persuade you to get one. However, in our experience, there are a lot of areas where this bike needs work. Its rear suspension has very little travel, leading to a jarring ride over less-than-perfect roads. 

Its fit and finish, as well as overall build quality, cannot justify its Rs 4.15 lakh (ex-showroom) price tag, and Keeway has a minuscule dealer network across India. Also, the V302C isn't a machine that has cemented its reputation for reliability like other, more mainstream rivals. All this being said, we recommend you steer clear of the Keeway V302C and, for that matter, other Chinese-origin bikes on sale in India. 

Sadly, the cruiser space in the middleweight displacement segment has seen very few entrants and aside from the Super Meteor, you are limited to the Kawasaki Eliminator 500 (Rs 6.16 lakh) and Vulcan S (Rs 8.13 lakh), the only two offerings from a reputed make under the Rs 10 lakh mark. Other options will require you to significantly increase your budget. 

Between the Honda H'ness CB350 and the Triumph Scrambler 400 X, we would steer you toward the Triumph bike purely because it offers you significantly higher performance for not that much more money. The Scrambler is also a smooth, comfortable do-it-all motorcycle which has good passenger accommodations as well. The H'ness is also comfortable for two-up riding and is a good city bike, but it will not be able to match the Triumph's performance advantage. 

We would advise you not to go for the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 because it is a rather heavy bike at 240kg, which will not be the best fit on traffic-riddled city roads. Moreover, its stiff rear suspension will be the bigger reason to look elsewhere. If you want a RE 650, we would recommend taking a look at the Royal Enfield Interceptor, as that has more pliant suspension and is also much lighter.