[Pferdestarke]

Just like most of the motoring enthusiasts out there, my passion for motored vehicles started with a humble motorcycle, a Suzuki Samurai (lucky to have experienced a 2-stroke motor) on which I learnt how to ride.

Then Honda Activa happened in 2005, which was a good commuting scooter but lacked that feel we get with a motorcycle.

Rode a Karizma 225 for 4 years (2008-2012) which was a peppy, trendy bike during that period.

Now that I stepped into my mid 30s, I now feel young again and feel like riding a proper motorcycle.

My budget is capped at 5L and I'm currently considering a pre-owned one.

Primarily looking at cruiser style bikes (First Preference = Harley but is it a wise call?)

Kindly pour in your views and share possible options for me!

[shiv4747]

Hi, I was in the same boat few year back. The hunger that never stops

Please share more details with us which would help us to pitch in better suggestions.

Such as

1. Shortlisted bikes
2. Riding pattern (city % + highway %) (weekly ride or every day)
3. With pillion or without

etc if any other.

Just sharing my story for your reference.

I am in my late 30s now. Till 30 I was riding 150CC and then I wanted to upgrade. The one bike I was inclined towards is Yamaha R3 which is still my crush. But due to some reasons I moved to RE 350 Classic gun metal grey. I used it for couple of years. But after multiple long rides and city rides I realised it wasnt my style. Hence I sold RE and bought pre worshipped R3 10k kms ridden. It was an amazing bike. I can ride it all day. I used it for city 60% and 40% for highway rides. Rode with pillion only for grocery. It was a perfect ride with decent maintenance.

Now I am owning a Ninja 300 pre worshipped(5k kms when I bought) 2021 model. Since the Yamaha has stopped selling, the spares take time to come at present. I am glad I sold it last year mid. I am pretty happy with Ninja 300 which is used for city + highways. Also pretty decent for pillion for around 50 kms ride. I have ridden few long rides 1500 kms in 2 days. Not so much tiring. Maintaining 100 to 120 kmph in highways, Fuel economy is 33/34 kmpl which I am really happy about.

Maintenance is pretty high though compared to R3. But the Ninja is worth it.

Let me know your thoughts and details.

Regards
Shiva

[aargee]

Originally Posted by Pferdestarke

Just like most of the motoring enthusiasts out there, my passion for motored vehicles started with a humble motorcycle, a Suzuki Samurai (lucky to have experienced a 2-stroke motor) on which I learnt how to ride.

Then Honda Activa happened in 2005, which was a good commuting scooter but lacked that feel we get with a motorcycle

Rode a Karizma 225 for 4 years (2008-2012) which was a peppy, trendy bike during that period.

Now that I stepped into my mid 30s, I now feel young again and feel like riding a proper motorcycle

If you replace Samurai with Rx & Karizma with CBR 250R without changing Activa including the year, we've near identical life with motorcycles; regarding age, I will consider myself in mid 20s hehe

Anyway, when I had to undergo this, I asked one pertinent question - What is the purpose?

Since I didn't cap the budget, I was open to all including Harley & RE. My purpose was simple: To ride far & wide across the nation on roads & some non roads. But then reality kicked in asking: 1. What is that I cannot do with my C250R? Answer: almost none
2. How many Kms am I able to do with my C250R? Answer: None!!

So even that purpose changed to: No single cylinder, something powerful, comfortable, reliable that can do 120 easily all day & push to 160 if needed

Once emotions settled down, PFC kicked in to points such as:
1. Wide spread ASC
2. Motorcycle should not be a girl friend to ensure my wallet stays dry!!
3. Should have a minimum of 3 or better 4 cylinders
4. Should have a forward leaning posture
5. Should not be a crowd magnet

Discussed with friends & TBhp, went for GT650, landed up owning Interceptor 650!!

Did it meet all my requirements? Ofcourse no, but for sure it certainly met many of my expectations. Most importantly, staying practical.

Imagine this: I was longing {and still} to buy Triumph Tiger; I would by crying in blood to see the Tiger idle in garage most of the time. Glad that wasn't the case, wisdom kicked in through friends.

So my suggestion to you will be to ask - What's the purpose? Because the novelty of owning a new {or even used} toy fades with time, but if you really have a purpose, then the novely remains when the purpose is met for a longer period.

Good luck Sir

[AulusGabinius]

Originally Posted by Pferdestarke

Kindly pour in your views and share possible options for me!

I would have to say that with a 5L budget the Super Meteor 650 has to be your pick. I'd also go with Big Bear Bangalore's suggestion: If you're coming back to motorcycling, go for the big bike! If you take a small bike and get bored, you will sell it, if you like the small bike and want a bit more you will still sell it and get a big bike. Big bikes can be sold either way, and usually for better % returns than small ones. So get a big Super Meteor or a Adv 390 or a Himalayan 452, or if possible something as big but second hand!

[Pferdestarke]

Originally Posted by shiv4747

1. Shortlisted bikes
2. Riding pattern (city % + highway %) (weekly ride or every day)
3. With pillion or without

Sorry for being not so informative in my initial post!

As of now, I'm in two minds between pre-owned HD Iron 883 and brand new Honda Rebel 500 [launch expected in Q1 2024].

80% of my riding will be on highways and this will be used mostly for weekend fun rides.

I don't do much of touring so not looking at tourers / ADVs but the new Himalayan looks promising!

Originally Posted by aargee

If you replace Samurai with Rx & Karizma with CBR 250R without changing Activa including the year, we've near identical life with motorcycles; regarding age, I will consider myself in mid 20s hehe

Good to know that bud!

Originally Posted by aargee

Anyway, when I had to undergo this, I asked one pertinent question - What is the purpose?

This will be used purely for weekend fun rides and casual city riding now and then but no touring.

I need a big, bold motorcycle with a unique character of its own and a powerful engine (2 cylinders minimum) that can cruise at 100-120 with breeze. Top speed is not much of a requirement but 150 is plenty of headroom for me.

Planning to hold onto this for a period of 3-5 years.

Originally Posted by aargee

Because the novelty of owning a new {or even used} toy fades with time, but if you really have a purpose, then the novely remains when the purpose is met for a longer period.

Aptly said! One should let the emotions cool off before taking a decision.

Originally Posted by AulusGabinius

Get a big Super Meteor or a Adv 390 or a Himalayan 452, or if possible something as big but second hand!

Added "Super Meteor" to my list.



So far, these bikes have made it to my watchlist:

1. Pre-owned HD Iron 883 / Super Glide Custom [worried about parts / service]

2. Honda Rebel 500

3. Super Meteor 650

4. Himlayan 452 [I like the bike but it doesn't suit my riding style]

[aargee]

Originally Posted by Pferdestarke

1. Pre-owned HD Iron 883 / Super Glide Custom [worried about parts / service]

Pls take a look into the sales numbers of HD since Jan 2023 in both these posts: Jan to Jun & Apr to Sep

The highest they were able to sell was in the month of Sep, 30 units out of which X400 makes 18!! Now compare that to a similar cadre motorcycle in Triumph that makes 4508 {250 times more; even a Trident 660 sells more than that month after month}

Now why the sales numbers are important? Because sales keeps or kicks the business out of market. More sales means, more ASC, more spares & most importantly no waiting for parts & some spares available outside ASC as well.

But yes, our ride is not going to look one of a kind, perhaps one of them, but certainly not one among them.

[antz.bin]

I had similar requirements (apart from the big & bold part) but a budget only permitting up to the RE 650s (which is not too far from your 5 lakh budget if you consider the Super Meteor 650).

TRed everything within that budget and LOVED the Continental GT 650 but eventually went for the Triumph Speed 400 because it felt just right to me.

Anyways seems like the Triumphs won't fit your Big and Bold requirements but the RE 650s definitely will.

Honda and Bigwing Topline motorcycles have a poor track record when it comes to spares availability. Keep that in mind before you cough up for the Rebel.

Harley numbers are just about to start looking up with the launch of the x440 so I wouldn't worry about HD running away again. But you never know with American companies.

If I were you, I would stick to the RE 650s. They are large enough in size and the Interceptor is a good place to start a customization journey and you could make it just like you want it (one of a kind) while still retaining the ability to get service and support from the massive RE service network all over the country.

I understand that a V-Twin engine would make your motorcycle instantly identifiable and bold but it is a risk you choose to take when buying used.

[Pferdestarke]

Originally Posted by aargee

More sales means, more ASC, more spares & most importantly no waiting for parts & some spares available outside ASC as well.

This is exactly what is holding me back from choosing a Harley. But I have few friends who own Harleys and are happy with ASC and parts availability even till date.

Originally Posted by antz.bin

I understand that a V-Twin engine would make your motorcycle instantly identifiable and bold but it is a risk you choose to take when buying used.

Looks like RE 650s are a safe bet. what risks are we talking about when we are going pre-owned route?

[shiv4747]

Thanks for the details. Sorry for the late response.

I believe you got the valuable answers from fellow BHPians.

As many here suggests, Interceptor is such a good choice for your riding style. Kindly check if any of your friends or family has it and take it for a spin and see if you get the grin

When it comes to pre worshipped, the points you may think twice or hesitate:
1. How it was treated by the previous owner? Their riding style since the initial break in period is the vital factor.
2. Reliability - Was it treated well and serviced on time.
3. Was it handled single hand or multiple
4. You will not get the “fresh/all new” vibe
5. Valuation of the bike in case if you want to buy a new one in couple of years.

It is better if you can buy it from your closed circle. I mean if you are looking for only used one.

But mostly I would suggest to buy new one. Hope these points help.


Regards
Shiva

[AnAntinspired]

You are in a boat that is sailing towards a shore I suddenly find myself on! Having booked a single cylinder Hero-Harley x440 on the booking opening day of July 4th, I realised I wanted my 35th motorcycle to be a bit more special than just practical as always.

I also booked an interceptor then, a logical next step of budget choice, but over many test rides post booking, realised it's an ergonomic harassment that needs effort, expense and adjustment. Adding to that, the weight of both it and the super meteor are inconveniently felt in many urban situations. Cancelled it, felt huge relief!

While considering other motorcycles I started talking to friends who had stood tall with their experience and knew my riding patterns. One of them was Farhan, who is a keen rider of litre class Supersport for over a decade, but is also publicly known for his being the best anchor for Mahindra Mojo, with his showroom NAFS motors, Bangalore that sold the MOJO till the last day. He not only sold, serviced and modified the MOJO as an authorised dealer but also ensured the motorcycle reached eager customers across the country, supporting them with spares and service since the Mahindra network was too weak to do so! NAFS and Farhan therefore are well known across several Mojo and touring groups as the saviours for anything to do with Mahindra Mojo. My relationship with him started when he was with the KTM Kawasaki showroom in 2013, then continued when I bought a Mojo. I was always in touch and found his perspectives most decisively valuable when buying motorcycles across other brands over the past 10 years.

Anyway, upon contacting him for a private chat, I was delighted to know that since Mahindra had closed down the MOJO, he was making use of the showroom and service facility to start a Used Superbike dealership. I headed over that very day. Exactly as I expected, Farhan had a select stock of the best premium brands and motorcycles that were superbly selected by his informed eye for their quality prior ownership, condition and minimal usage.

Over 20 used cars and a few bikes, i have found in my past 30+ years of automotive purchasing, that in the used market, that's really what it is! Not the size or scale of operations, but the perspective of the person owning the used motor vehicle business. If they are passionate automotive enthusiasts, they will never lose their reputation and pride over a reason for profit.

With his trained eye and team, i observed that Farhan ensures each motorcycle is truly a gem in its condition. I was also looking for an easy cruiser, and amidst the many Supersport and ADV out there, was standing a Triumph Bonneville Street Twin 900cc. Elder doctor owned, just 10k done, well maintained and barely looking used. Since I didn't know much about the model, having never considered it previously, I took a week to do thorough research, each time going back to correlate learning, and Farhan was most patient in allowing inspection and innumerable test rides.

I was sold! And in a matter of a week, at a price not far ahead of your budget, I have the motorcycle which is putting a big smile on my face even as I type about owning it, let alone riding. Its quality, finish, feel is all top tier, and I assure you, no RE or any other alternative in this genre, will showcase quality in every cable, weld or bolt, like a Triumph does. To add, the age old saying - there is no replacement for displacement - definitely hold merit, with a staggering 80nm of torque that puts this heads and shoulders above anything else that you may be considering new in a 5 lakh budget. Like you wondered, the only concern is reliablity when buying used, but upon finding the right ally, don't hesitate to step in.

What the street twin 900/speed twin 900 duo do as a cruiser you can get many reviews on, but they are triumphs best selling models internationally for a reason. With triumph opening many showrooms rapidly, promising over a 100 by March 24, I think even the authorised support base should be covered. Not to add these are otherwise mechanically simple motorcycles that are easy to maintain.

As a parting point, I also noticed NAFS motors stocks several TS registered motorcycles...and had customers from across states. Personally, if I was in your state (both mentally and geographically) I would reach out to them once, the nafs.motors page on instagram has a-customer-a-day happiness to view.

I felt like replying in such detail, for your budgets and motorcycling intent at the moment, resonated with mine. I hope you reach a good shore of conclusion soon, cheers and all the best with whichever way you go!

[RT13]

Originally Posted by AnAntinspired

I was also looking for an easy cruiser, and amidst the many Supersport and ADV out there, was standing a Triumph Bonneville Street Twin 900cc. Elder doctor owned, just 10k done, well maintained and barely looking used. Since I didn't know much about the model, having never considered it previously, I took a week to do thorough research, each time going back to correlate learning, and Farhan was most patient in allowing inspection and innumerable test rides.

I was sold! And in a matter of a week, at a price not far ahead of your budget, I have the motorcycle which is putting a big smile on my face even as I type about owning it, let alone riding. Its quality, finish, feel is all top tier, and I assure you, no RE or any other alternative in this genre, will showcase quality in every cable, weld or bolt, like a Triumph does. To add, the age old saying - there is no replacement for displacement - definitely hold merit, with a staggering 80nm of torque that puts this heads and shoulders above anything else that you may be considering new in a 5 lakh budget. Like you wondered, the only concern is reliablity when buying used, but upon finding the right ally, don't hesitate to step in.

What the street twin 900/speed twin 900 duo do as a cruiser you can get many reviews on, but they are triumphs best selling models internationally for a reason. With triumph opening many showrooms rapidly, promising over a 100 by March 24, I think even the authorised support base should be covered. Not to add these are otherwise mechanically simple motorcycles that are easy to maintain.

Interesting! My childhood dream cruiser was the Bonnie, long before Triumph’s revitalised classic series. Steve McQueen represented all that was cool on Turner Classic Movies. Cut to today, I’ve been eyeing a used Bonnie for the last few years. Unfortunately there seem to be a ton of random dealers here in Bangalore and some bizarre pricing at times. And Keerthi being the nightmare they are has made me repeatedly pause at Triumph. I’ve never heard of this NAFS - please do share more details, I’d be happy to check them out and meet this gentleman. Another thing, what do you do for ASS? And one more, any thoughts on how the Street Twin and its counterparts will handle the new E20 fuel?

[AnAntinspired]

Originally Posted by RT13

Interesting! Unfortunately there seem to be a ton of random dealers here in Bangalore and some bizarre pricing at times. And Keerthi being the nightmare they are has made me repeatedly pause at Triumph. I’ve never heard of this NAFS - please do share more details, I’d be happy to check them out and meet this gentleman. Another thing, what do you do for ASS? And one more, any thoughts on how the Street Twin and its counterparts will handle the new E20 fuel?

I'm repeating the info i passed on to the OP of this post : NAFS motors belongs to Farhan, and in Bangalore riding circles and across Mojo fans in the country, he is very well known for being the best sales and service support system for Mojo in India. I find his work ethic, responsiveness and pride of profession far ahead of any other mass motorcycling brand I have ever come across in India in the past 30+ years and over 35 motorcycles! (I have owned RE/Yamaha/Suzuki/Hero/Honda/ Hyosung/BMW/TVS/Kinetic/Bajaj/Kawasaki so I'm comparing to the sales + service responsiveness and personal connect offered to me by these brands)

You can reach him at Farhan - 88610 83251 and also look him up this article about him https://motolethe.in/farhan-khan-the-motopreneur/
The article outlines his passion and journey to what he offers right now.

He would be the perfect person, in my opinion to trust sourcing whatever your choice is, whether he currently stocks or not, as his assessment and selection of a used motorcycle is fairly flawless IMHO!

Now for my take on your specific points.

1. Pricing - It certainly doesn't get more bizzare nowadays that what buying a vehicle new, with current taxes and inflation costs. Take Dominar for instance that started out as a 1.5 lakh motorcycle and for not much more motorcycle has today ballooned to a 3 lakh price point. So for me, I focus more or trustworthy source and would rather demand a pride worthy ride than pennies saved. For me, a well run, with maintaince records, used vehicle, evaluated by a trustworthy source is worth paying a premium for vs a new bike that has inflated and taxed expense and has to go through a bedding in period with service by largely lower skilled set ups belonging to company authorised showrooms. Which brings me to service.

2. Its well known that company showroom service stations are overworked and underpaid, with a bulk of the service generated income going to line the company pockets. Motorcycling cities, such as Bangalore, are lucky to have many options of premium bike garages run by passionate teams, offering practical solutions at sane prices and above all - being just a phone call away from simple dyi's. Specifically for Triumph, yes - Keerthi is flawed, but as of today with Bajaj taking over there are 4 new showrooms, 3 run by Khivraj, which are all aiming to repair the impression. Apart from the many private garages - of which NAFS is also a highly reputed service centre for premium motorcycles, so there are options for every locality literally.

3. E20 Fuel. Well, this is such a new introduction, I don't think it will apply to most vehicles running on the road for the next ten years atleast, which should amply cover any motorcycle from even the 70's let alone a thoroughly modern motorcycle such as the Bonneville 900's which are all Euro 4/5 compliant. Its like wondering if a mobile phone that's 4g will work since 5g has come in. FYI even 2g phones are totally supported and still work superbly well - so fuel is not at all concern.

If you have factored in running costs of a premium bike, which would roughly equal that of a mid segment car (fuel economy + spares + insurance + maintenance) at about 9-10 rupees per kilometer, there is hardly anything else in the way of owning one.

Remember, when used, it's better to pay more for something from the right person, than save 'pennies' but have your head 'pound' in worry! Cheers, safe riding.

[RT13]

Originally Posted by AnAntinspired

I'm repeating the info i passed on to the OP of this post : NAFS motors belongs to Farhan, and in Bangalore riding circles and across Mojo fans in the country, he is very well known for being the best sales and service support system for Mojo in India. I find his work ethic, responsiveness and pride of profession far ahead of any other mass motorcycling brand I have ever come across in India in the past 30+ years and over 35 motorcycles! (I have owned RE/Yamaha/Suzuki/Hero/Honda/ Hyosung/BMW/TVS/Kinetic/Bajaj/Kawasaki so I'm comparing to the sales + service responsiveness and personal connect offered to me by these brands)

You can reach him at Farhan - 88610 83251 and also look him up this article about him https://motolethe.in/farhan-khan-the-motopreneur/
The article outlines his passion and journey to what he offers right now.

He would be the perfect person, in my opinion to trust sourcing whatever your choice is, whether he currently stocks or not, as his assessment and selection of a used motorcycle is fairly flawless
Remember, when used, it's better to pay more for something from the right person, than save 'pennies' but have your head 'pound' in worry! Cheers, safe riding.

Thanks. Absolutely - I am happy to pay a premium for peace of mind from a trustworthy source. My only problem has been finding one (a trustworthy source) in the ‘organised’ used bike scene. With respect to the E20, there are threads about how the fuel will affect the older bikes, or at least their plastic parts and so on so I just thought I’d get an owners perspective but yes I see what you mean. After your earlier post I looked up NAFS and it turns out it’s very close to me, in Banaswadi. So I’ll def look them up and connect with Farhan. Appreciate the connect.

[Living2Drive]

Owing, 6, 7 motorcycles in the last 25 years, I very lately realized that motorcycle which has foot pegs below saddle tend to put less stress on lower back. I was on roadking, then RX 100, then Lightening 535, then RXZ 5 speed, then Thunderbird in 2004, though i enjoyed the highway ride TB a lot, i get tired after couple of hours on the saddle and back hurts like anything. The other downer is numbness on thighs. Though its not safe, standing in motion even for few seconds would help to relax the numbness which was not possible on my TB. In 2014, got a chance to ride my friends 2002 BMW GS 1150 in UK, after a 300 odd mile highway trip i did did not feel tired as i normally would, assumed its the weather and motorcycle refinement. Only in 2017 when i took demo of himalayan i realized its the seating position which contributes more on physical fatigue. Tucked back foot peg with little below chest height handle bar is near ideal position for long hours. Applies well for riders like me who's not physically fit, does not meet height to weight ratio and has family pack instead of 6 pack.

Hope this helps you to filter the right one for you.

[tc89]

Hi, Have you considered the Honda Highness CB350 you can find a pre loved one at a really decent price as well. In fact a well known and close family friend of ours is wanting to move on from his machine at just 2500Km on the Odo because for him it's too heavy for him. I can put you together if you would like, DM me for more details