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Old 7th September 2024, 13:57   #1
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Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Hey BHPians, hope you're all doing great. I am in the market for a bike that I'll use to commute 25kms to college everyday. For some context, this will be my first bike and I will learn to ride on it. I'm looking for a bike that is fun, safe and easy to maintain.

Option #1: The triumph scrambler400x
Loved the fit and finish on this bike. Took a test ride and it was really fun too. I was sold on it till I looked at option #2 and now I'm confused.
Will this be a good first bike as it is a but too tall and my dad says it'll be harder for me to control. I am 5'10, 200lbs.


Option #2: TVS Apache rtr310
I looked at this bike online and I didn't think I would like it that much. Went to the showroom very disinterested but I fell in love with this bike the moment I set my eyes on it. I absolutely loved the way it looked in person. This bike is also very modern compared to the Triumph. I've read that the engine is unrefined and TVS service is terrible.

Option #3: Honda CB350RS
This is my dad's favorite cause he has had Hondas in the past. The design is good, the ride I felt wasn't as good as the Triumph but it was okay. I felt like the build quality on this is subpar compared to the scrambler.

Please help me decide which bike to get. I am open to any other suggestions as well.
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Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310-20240827_125702.jpg  

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Old 7th September 2024, 14:22   #2
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Go for the scrambler. From your post, it seems you liked it the most as well. However, I would say that you should first learn to ride on any existing bike in your family or friend group for few months and then purchase new bike. Wouldn't recommend buying the Scrambler and then learn to ride on it.

From the 3, it is easy to suggest the Triumph Scrambler 400x and at 5'10 and 90kg, you will be fine. It won't feel too tall soon after a few rides.
40 bhp might sound too much for a first ever bike but it has linear power delivery unlike the Duke. Still be gentle on the throttle.

Look wise, the RTR looks very futuristic but I've barely seen a few on the roads. The sales must be pretty low and the engine is rough same as RR310.

CB350RS is totally different from the 2 and is a chill bike. Not a fun bike for a college student I imagine.

Last edited by Ratan Prabhu : 7th September 2024 at 14:27.
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Old 7th September 2024, 14:30   #3
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Quote:
Originally Posted by LBWKjesko View Post
Option #2: TVS Apache rtr310Went to the showroom very disinterested but I fell in love with this bike the moment I set my eyes on it. I absolutely loved the way it looked in person.
You have answered your own question with the above Get the RTR if you love it so much. Our BHPian Neil.Jericho has had a lot of positive things to say about this bike. Please search for the thread and you shall find deliverance.

Since you like the RTR I would suggest you take a look at the 2024 KTM 390 Duke. It’s a great little pocket rocket and looks the part too.

Don’t overthink things - our bike purchases go a lot with the heart and there shouldn’t be any what if’s. You can’t really go wrong with any of the options you have listed and If a certain bike invokes feelings of love, then that’s the one my friend.

Happy shopping - go easy with the right wrist initially while you learn the nuances of your bike for the first 1000 kilometres or so and you should be set.

Cheers
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Old 7th September 2024, 14:52   #4
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Quote:
Originally Posted by LBWKjesko View Post
Please help me decide which bike to get.
I recommend Option 2, i.e., the TVS Apache RTR 310.

For a college student, the Triumph Scrambler might be bigger and heavier compared to the TVS Apache. Additionally, after-sales service with TVS would be more pocket-friendly compared to Triumph.

I would suggest ignoring the Honda CB350RS as your statement suggests you are not really happy with it.

Remember, you will be using your bike every day, so you need to be happy with the purchase.

Best Wishes!
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Old 7th September 2024, 19:02   #5
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Quote:
Originally Posted by LBWKjesko View Post
Option #1: The triumph scrambler400x
Loved the fit and finish on this bike. Took a test ride and it was really fun too. I was sold on it till I looked at option #2 and now I'm confused.
Will this be a good first bike as it is a but too tall and my dad says it'll be harder for me to control. I am 5'10, 200lbs.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Ratan Prabhu View Post
Go for the scrambler. From your post, it seems you liked it the most as well.
I would suggest you pick the scrambler from the 3. If something other than these, I'd suggest the Interceptor or the BSA Goldstar.
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Old 7th September 2024, 23:36   #6
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Normally I'd say duke 390 easy for just 50k more. Stay in 2nd gear and you will be limited to some 60kmph. Add TC, rain mode and speed control, it is about as idiot proof as it gets. That said, the suspension is probably going to be garbage for someone weighing 90kg.

Apparently the new REs like hunter, super meteor, shotgun, and guerilla all come with stiff suspension, stiffer than the triumphs even, so the guerilla 450 with its stiffer suspension might work better for you.
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Old 8th September 2024, 10:44   #7
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Quote:
Originally Posted by LBWKjesko View Post
Hey BHPians, hope you're all doing great. I am in the market for a bike that I'll use to commute 25kms to college everyday. For some context, this will be my first bike and I will learn to ride on it. I'm looking for a bike that is fun, safe and easy to maintain.

Option #1: The triumph scrambler400x
Loved the fit and finish on this bike. Took a test ride and it was really fun too. I was sold on it till I looked at option #2 and now I'm confused.
Will this be a good first bike as it is a but too tall and my dad says it'll be harder for me to control. I am 5'10, 200lbs.


Option #2: TVS Apache rtr310
I looked at this bike online and I didn't think I would like it that much. Went to the showroom very disinterested but I fell in love with this bike the moment I set my eyes on it. I absolutely loved the way it looked in person. This bike is also very modern compared to the Triumph. I've read that the engine is unrefined and TVS service is terrible.

Option #3: Honda CB350RS
This is my dad's favorite cause he has had Hondas in the past. The design is good, the ride I felt wasn't as good as the Triumph but it was okay. I felt like the build quality on this is subpar compared to the scrambler.

Please help me decide which bike to get. I am open to any other suggestions as well.
I had a CB 350 Hness for a year from 2021 to 2022, as a second bike for city riding, to complement my Versys 650.

It IS the bike for a college student - inexpensive to buy, operate and service.

I had taken mine to Yawang in Oct 21. Not one issue in the entire Pune to Tawang and back ride.

Had fitted a tacho to it to check the torque and power RPM. It did 85 to 90 kph at 1800 to 2000 RPM. For reference, my current KTM 390 Adv IDLES at 1800 RPM.

In city

You can go the whole day long in 3rd, puttering about your daily routine and the bike will return 48 odd KPL. Low ground clearance allows easy traffic management esp at traffiic lights.

On highway long distance cruising

As long as you keep at 80 to 90, no issues. And if you keep withing the ECO band of power and torque (a green icon lights up on the instrument panel), it will return about 50 to 52 KPL.

But if you increase speed beyond say 95 to 100, the long stroke engine complains with a persistent knocking right under your perineum. 'Cause, it is not meant to be ridden at such high speeds.

Here is the review I had done for a freind but when I sold the bike after by son went overseas for his higher edn, I did not post a video review on my channel. Hope it informs you better.

A REVIEW OF THE 2021 HONDA CB350 DLX
1. Intro
(a) Rumours, teasers by Honda about a new launch from Jul 20
onwards. Highness name in advts.
(b) Global launch 30 Sep 20, India launch 08 Oct 20
(c) News report of 1000 units sold within 20 days by 16 Nov 20.
2. Looks
(a) Retro classic – round headlamp, chromed mudguards, large
ovoid fuel tank, shiny chromed exhaust, long stroke engine
(b) UJM of the 70s, 80s and 90s, similar to the 68 to 73 350, but
with a single cylinder and FI. Wikipedia mentions the new CB on
the page of the old CB.
(c) RS model Minor changes – headlight surround, ribbed seat,
different liveries, fatter rear tyre, blacked out exhaust and mudguards,
rest identical and pricier by ~ 10k.
3. Features
(a) Dual channel ABS – almost the norm these days, always ON
(b) Traction control - Honda Selectable Torque Control, can be
switched OFF
(c) Slipper-assist clutch/back-torque limiter – less effort on the
lever,safer on sudden deceleration for rider and engine. Google it.
(d) Side-stand indicator/ plus engine inhibitor. Positive safety
(e) Honda Smartphone Voice Control system:Not tested as I have a
SENA BT helmet set. But said to be glitchy.
(f) Balancer shaft: Effect is to reduce vibrations of the big lump
moving up and down. Works brilliantly.

4. BASIC DATA
Engine and transmission
Displacement: 348.3 ccm (21.25 cubic inches)
Engine type: Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power: 20.8 HP (15.2 kW)) @ 5500 RPM
Torque: 30.0 Nm (3.1 kgf-m or 22.1 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM
Compression: 9.5:1
Bore x stroke: 70.0 x 90.5 mm (2.8 x 3.6 inches)
Fuel system: Injection. PGM-FI
Fuel control: Single Overhead Cams (SOHC)
Ignition: Electronic
Cooling system: Air
Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type, final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet multiplate
Chassis, suspension, brakes and wheels
Frame type: Half duplex cradle
Rake (fork angle): 24.7°
Trail: 93 mm (3.7 inches)
Front suspension: Telescopic forks
Front wheel travel: 30 mm (5.1 inches)
Rear suspension: Dual hydraulic shocks
Rear wheel travel: 107 mm (4.2 inches)
Front tire: 100/90-19
Rear tire: 130/70-18
Front brakes: Single disc, Diameter: 310 mm (12.2 inches)
Rear brakes: Single disc, Diameter: 240 mm (9.4 inches)

Physical measures and capacities
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc: 181.0 kg (399.0 pounds)
Seat height: 800 mm (31.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall height: 1105 mm (43.5 inches)
Overall length: 2165 mm (85.2 inches)
Overall width: 800 mm (31.5 inches)
Ground clearance: 166 mm (6.5 inches)
Wheelbase: 1441 mm (56.7 inches)
Fuel capacity: 15.00 litres (3.96 gallons)
Courtesy: https://bikez.com/motorcycles/honda_cb350_2021.php

5. ERGONOMICS
(a) Rider’s Triangle
(i) Adequate space for knees extension
(ii) Under 5’ 8”: butt within seat depression, comfy, leaning
fwd, good triangle, though arms low. Bar risers highly R.
(iii) Over 5’8”: butt on seat seam for comfort, else arms
pushed back, good triangle though lean fwd. Bar risers more
highly R.
(b) Controls: Easy reach as with above, horn and indicator
confusion.
6. PERFORMANCE
(a) Acceleration: 0 to 60 or 0 to 100, no figures, not that kind
of bike
(b) Braking: Again, no performance figures available.
(c) Fuel Consumption
- Sensor taking input from throttle posn?
- Instantaneous display from 99.9 to 27.8, idling on a slope to
hard acceleration
- Expected 40 + KPL, 42 kpl in most other reviews, wait and
see after tank to tank test.
7. HANDLING
(a) Stiff centre stand spring. Effort to put it on, less to take it off
(b) Weight and ground clearance: Lighter feel than it actually
is due to low C of G. 166 mm GC, large s/breakers sideways
(c) Long wheelbase
- 1441 mm Vs 1415 mm on Versys 650
- Very stable feel
(d) Crank up: Throttle at stop, one crank, high idle, after warmup,
settles into low idle. Raspy, metallic bassy deep beat, like a bass drum
with snares, want to rev it again and again, wonderful overrun. Very
smooth, almost zero vibration in seat and handlebar. Times at traffic
lights or coasting at idle, when I thought the engine was off, cranked it,
it is that smooth.
(e) Throttle on: Typical long stroke single cyl spool up, lazy RPM
windup and wind down, back to smooth low idle.
(f) Clutch: Ridiculously light feel, a child can pull it in.
(g) Into the gears
(i)Into 1st gear Light, positive click, excellent feel.
(ii) Throttle rev up and clutch out:Briefest flat spot
and then smooth torque rush. Upto 20 kph.
(iii) 2nd gear Smooth and fat torque. Up to 30 kph.
(iv) 3rd gear Smooth, torque curve. Up to 50 kph.
Perfect for city riding
(v) 4th gear Insistent torque rush while
accelerating. Up to 70 kph. Audio from exhaust, music to
the ears. Strong, confident raspy metallic bass.
(vi) 5th gear Almost totally flat curve. Only after 80
kph, on smooth, flat road. Again a sustained push to
stay at 90 or so, best cruising speed. Audio ditto from
4th.
(vii) The only bike where I have reduced speeds on
curves or straights only to rev the throttle to hear the exhaust
note.
(viii) Straight line ride: Stable till 80ish, then torque
makes front too light & skittish for comfort. Full fuel & 5 to 8
kg tank bag helps a lot.
(ix) Curved line ride: Distinct under steer due to long
wheelbase and false increase in rake (handlebar way to the
rear)
8. Suspension
(a) Front: A bit hard initially, will become softer with time. Firm
enough. Does not bottom out in potholes.
(b) Rear: Hard. On second last preload setting from showroom, yet
too hard. Bumpy, harsh ride. Will need to be replaced.
(c) Overall Impressions
(i) On smooth roads: excellent, planted feel.
(ii) On rough patches: jumpy.
(iii) Broken road: bouncy, harsh ride
(iv) Reason: Hard rear struts. From showroom at second last
low preload setting, yet harsh. Reduced to min preload, much
better but not enough. Spring rotates freely at rest, oil viscosity
seems to be the culprit. Paioli struts from RE seem good
alternative

HONDA CB 350 HNESS ORIGINAL ACCESSORIES
Did not get a catalogue from the dealer
'Ness CB350 Accessories Prices
Tank Pad Rs 309
Side Stand Rs 375
Engine Lower Pipe Rs 465
Fork Gaiters Rs 581
Pannier Support A Rs 643
Pannier Support B Rs 697
Engine Guard Rs 1,234
Split Seat Kit (Black) Rs 3,705
Split Seat Kit (Brown) Rs 3,705
Pannier luggage system Rs 4,199
Parani M-10 Bluetooth Rs 6,000

9. OBSERVATIONS
(a) Headlamp beam adjustment
(i) In elevation only with Phillips screwdriver pinion recessed
inside enclosure, no knob.
(ii) No azimuth adjustment: unlike the Triumph Bonneville
spring loaded screw at 8 O clock position for horizontal.
(b) Front DRL in indicator? Confuses traffic ahead about intention,
pointless when low beam is DRL, marketing gimmick, from smart to
needy.
(c) Front mudguard Too short by itself, muck on engine, needs third
party flap https://carbonracing.in/collections/honda-hness-
cb350/products/repulse-fender-extender-for-cb-350-cb-350-rs-on-pre-
orders
(d) Fork tubes naked:Risk of abrasion, could have given gaiters
factory fitted, OA available for INR 581.
(e) Knee guard and engine guard: Showroom fitted for shifting in
truck to showroom, not much use. Better would have been a sump
guard instead.
(f) Horns:Twin on Dlx model. Sharp and effective. Do not disturb
rider at all, forward focus.
(g) Instr Panel
(i) Only speedo, no tacho Max power @ 5500, max
torque @ 3000, how to monitor optimal throttle setting? Eco
mode for eco, but for redline? Balance needles for cruise etc
(like aviation instr)
(ii) Traction control from binnacle: Good for safety,
cannot be operated accidentally.
(h) Handlebar lock: Only to left? A bit silly, limits parking options.
(j) Clutch side controls
(i) Horn and indicator switch: Topsy- turvy for India,
fidgety at first, quick operation hand goes to indicators. Likely
Honda feature,ditto on AT, CBX, GW. Not on Kawa, Suzi,
Yamie, so not Jap unique.
(ii) Hi lo beam toggle switch. Out for hi, in for lo, toggle
for flash. Fragile, can break easily.
(iii) All of this due to bar mounted controls for instr panel
modes. Overkill IMO. Could have mounted these on binnacle
and traditional controls here to avoid fidgeting.
(k) Throttle side controls
(i) Engine crank cum cutoff toggle: Nifty, no confusion
with separate buttons and panic when not starting.
(ii) Hazard warning. Good for safety.
(l) Mirrors: small retro round, less FOV, could have been
trapezoidal for more coverage in city esp, might want to replace with
third party.
(m) Fuel fill level indicator: Careful to not exceed, tank breathing
problems.
(n) Gear shift lever: With heel-toe shifter. Dicey, as high
torque engine, stamping with heel generates much greater force,
can break engine parts, perhaps for the Indian commuter needs, have
cut it off for own needs.
(o) No start in gear with clutch in: Extra safety? Irritating in
traffic/slopes.
(p) Bty lock, docu lock & seat lock: Only bty lock with key, rest two
with Allen key. Allen key under bty cover. So, spare Allen key in keyring
or remove bty cover. Memories of Bonneville. Absurd solution.
(q) Water trap cavities due to castings: Need to drain with a thin
pipe else risk of rusting/corrosion.
(r) User Manual: Index in the end, greyed out page indicators,
small font, no soft copy for print, looks like an el cheapo B & W print of
a coloured company document.

9. Conclusion
(a) Touring: A refined, frugal, effortless, comfortable and
with Honda's reputation, reliable, long distance tourer on good to
average roads.
(b) Commuter: Effortless commuter due to torque in 3rd and
4th.
(c) Target market: Riders in 40s, 50s, 60s. Women and men both –
my unit seniors calling me for views. Commuters and LDTs both.
Light, economical, reasonably powerful, reliable, comfortable

10. Comparison with Meteor 350 and Benelli 400: Not ridden so cannot compare competently. Feedback from owner riders heavy tilt towards Honda.
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Old 8th September 2024, 10:48   #8
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

The CB350RS will only make sense of you're looking to get a high mileage figure, since the other bikes are far superior in terms of tech and/or performance. Scrambler 400X is an excellent machine, I nearly booked one before changing my mind at the last minute to get a Speed 400 instead.

Try the BSA 650 earnestly too- hearing a lot of good things about it. It has a retro charm quite unlike any other bike in this space, and its power figures should keep you happy for a long time.

In addition to these 2, the RTR310 is a fantastic choice. I didn't buy it because of the first-floor pillion seat, but it has pretty much everything else going for it.
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Old 8th September 2024, 11:39   #9
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Try the RE Guerrila in place of the Honda. The Honda is a beautiful bike but for a student, I would not suggest it. The Honda is more suited for someone who has crossed the student age.
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Old 8th September 2024, 11:45   #10
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Of the three listed, I would suggest the CB350 as well. What I've heard- and read about on this forum, for that matter- is quite the opposite of the experience you had with the CB, compared to the Scrambler; I suggest you give it another try, on a different bike perhaps.

Frankly I'm confused why fellow members are recommending some unsafe-for-beginners bikes, when you have explicitly mentioned that you'll be learning to ride on this new purchase. Bikes are obviously much more unsafe than cars, despite what the BHP number would suggest. You can see similar threads on 'What Car', where members suggest not to pick one beyond 100bhp for a beginner car. Personally I'd say that, that number is 20bhp in motorcycles- 30 being fine, with just about enough room to grow, over the ownership period- given how much more unsafe you are, even when you're simply present on road, than in a car.

Even apart from the safety aspect, and as docjoe has mentioned, a reliable high mileage bike with relatively less BHP today, would be a nice-to-have in years to come, when you can upgrade to a bigger bike. I learnt to ride on a used FZ150, which got me around 55kmpl on average; and having sold it is one of the biggest regrets that I have today.
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Old 8th September 2024, 11:53   #11
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Do check out Royal Enfield guerrilla 450, it fits your requirements.
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Old 8th September 2024, 12:15   #12
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Surprised that no one has recommended the CB300R. I would've also suggested the Gixxer 250 if it weren't for poor sales and boring looks. Since you didn't like the CB350RS and liked RTR and the Scrambler, there is a good chance you are going to like the CB300R. Take a test ride and decide. It has just the right power to not be a handful and still have fun and learn the trade in the process. And it's light & handles well.
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Old 8th September 2024, 12:26   #13
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Quote:
commute 25kms to college everyday. For some context, this will be my first bike and I will learn to ride on it. I'm looking for a bike that is fun, safe and easy to maintain
College, commute, learning to ride, first bike - All these says NO to a new motorcycle; take to the college, someone scratches the sticker, the scratch falls on your heart emotionally. Learning to ride, a small fall, even with no rider injury the bike's slightly bent exhaust will bend your arteries!!

And not to mention, 50 Km up & down, go for electric, Ather will be more practical even if you're stepping to 3rd year now

Rest is up to you & your Parents; whichever ride you choose - Be responsible & ride safe
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Old 8th September 2024, 12:52   #14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by aargee View Post
And not to mention, 50 Km up & down, go for electric, Ather will be more practical even if you're stepping to 3rd year now

Rest is up to you & your Parents; whichever ride you choose - Be responsible & ride safe
I do have a scooter in the family on which I've put on about 12k kms in a very short span of time. It was my father that suggested getting a bike because he feels that the scooter isn't that safe for my daily commute. I ride very cautiously and stay ready for anything to just spawn out of nowhere in the middle of the road. I fell off my scooter once going about 30kmph on a slippery road cause the front brakes locked up. Got a bruised knee and my helmet was scratched up. That's the only "accident" I've had in 12k kms. I feel like it could've been avoided with ABS very easily.

Quote:
Originally Posted by b16h22 View Post
Surprised that no one has recommended the CB300R. I would've also suggested the Gixxer 250 if it weren't for poor sales and boring looks. Since you didn't like the CB350RS and liked RTR and the Scrambler, there is a good chance you are going to like the CB300R. Take a test ride and decide. It has just the right power to not be a handful and still have fun and learn the trade in the process. And it's light & handles well.
My local Honda Bigwing doesn't have the CB300R and they won't be bringing one anytime soon. I loved the way it looked and it would've been the option instead of the CB350RS.

Quote:
Originally Posted by BullettuPaandi View Post
Of the three listed, I would suggest the CB350 as well. What I've heard- and read about on this forum, for that matter- is quite the opposite of the experience you had with the CB, compared to the Scrambler; I suggest you give it another try, on a different bike perhaps.

Frankly I'm confused why fellow members are recommending some unsafe-for-beginners bikes, when you have explicitly mentioned that you'll be learning to ride on this new purchase. Bikes are obviously much more unsafe than cars, despite what the BHP number would suggest. You can see similar threads on 'What Car', where members suggest not to pick one beyond 100bhp for a beginner car. Personally I'd say that, that number is 20bhp in motorcycles- 30 being fine, with just about enough room to grow, over the ownership period- given how much more unsafe you are, even when you're simply present on road, than in a car.

Even apart from the safety aspect, and as docjoe has mentioned, a reliable high mileage bike with relatively less BHP today, would be a nice-to-have in years to come, when you can upgrade to a bigger bike. I learnt to ride on a used FZ150, which got me around 55kmpl on average; and having sold it is one of the biggest regrets that I have today.
The test ride bike had aged very badly. Maybe that's why the ride was bad too.

I have had a 125cc scooter which I've put on about 12k kms on. I would say I have learnt the basic mannerisms and how to handle a 2 wheeler. I never ride like a maniac. I try to be as cautious as possible cause I'm aware of how risky a two wheeler can be. This will be my first and my last bike for a very long time atleast. That's why I don't wanna be stuck with a boring bike that I might outgrow within a year and have buyer's remorse after.

As I said, This will be my first and last bike for a very long time. It'll be here to stay. Even when I do eventually get a new bike, I won't be home to use this as my secondary bike. This bike will stay in my hometown at my parent's house for a very long time.

Quote:
Originally Posted by saikishor View Post
Try the RE Guerrila in place of the Honda. The Honda is a beautiful bike but for a student, I would not suggest it. The Honda is more suited for someone who has crossed the student age.
Checked it out, personally not a fan of the looks and the color schemes are atrocious. The Royal Enfield showroom experience was also something that should be forgotten. They made me feel like they were doing me a favour by selling their bike to me.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Cyborg View Post
You have answered your own question with the above Get the RTR if you love it so much. Our BHPian Neil.Jericho has had a lot of positive things to say about this bike. Please search for the thread and you shall find deliverance.

Since you like the RTR I would suggest you take a look at the 2024 KTM 390 Duke. It’s a great little pocket rocket and looks the part too.

Don’t overthink things - our bike purchases go a lot with the heart and there shouldn’t be any what if’s. You can’t really go wrong with any of the options you have listed and If a certain bike invokes feelings of love, then that’s the one my friend.

Happy shopping - go easy with the right wrist initially while you learn the nuances of your bike for the first 1000 kilometres or so and you should be set.

Cheers
Read Neil's review and now I'm definitely in favor of getting the apache.

Will also take a look at the duke 390. Will take one final test ride of all three bikes and finally make a decision. I feel like I can't go wrong with either of these bikes. The TVS after sales rep is the only thing deterring me from getting that bike. But the heart wants what the heart wants. I'll follow your advice when making the final decision.

Thank you so much! I'll use the initial break in period to get used to the bike and also get used to the riding gear. I'll update the thread when I have made my decision.

Last edited by Aditya : 9th September 2024 at 05:02. Reason: Back to back posts merged
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Old 8th September 2024, 13:29   #15
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re: Which Rs. 3.5 lakh motorcycle? EDIT: Bought the TVS RTR 310

Quote:
Originally Posted by LBWKjesko View Post
Hey BHPians, hope you're all doing great. I am in the market for a bike that I'll use to commute 25kms to college everyday. For some context, this will be my first bike and I will learn to ride on it. I'm looking for a bike that is fun, safe and easy to maintain.

Please help me decide which bike to get. I am open to any other suggestions as well.
Since you are new to biking, I suggest you to buy lighter motorcycle, and below 150cc. All the motorcycles are fun to ride. Safety depends on the rider 1st, so learn perfectly from lighter motorcycle and upgrade step by step after year or two. I don't promote any particular brand or model here but I can give some examples like MT15, NS160, R15, RC125. Goodluck and welcome as a responsible rider.
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