Which sub-500cc bike should I buy?

I have not ridden since my college days and I want to get back into casual biking on the weekends. I haven’t been following the industry very closely and find it quite confusing with all the choices that are suddenly available. I like the RE 650s, but they are too heavy. Hence, I’ve limited my search to sub-500cc bikes. Performance is not everything, but I’m sure I will like the thrill of a quick bike. Comfort and ease of use is important. Which bike should I opt for?

Aniket Mehta, via email

Autocar India says: The mid-capacity segment has grown rapidly in the past few years, and the excitement of the latest big ticket launches from Harley and Triumph has had plenty of folks like yourself considering a return to motorcycling. While it may seem like there’s plenty of choice, we also have plenty more highly anticipated product launches coming soon – the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, naked TVS Apache RR 310, next-gen KTM 390 Duke, Aprilia RS 440 and Yamaha’s parallel twin R3 and MT-03.

From what you have written it sounds like you want something that is not just entertaining but easy-going and not very high-strung. A naked roadster would be an ideal fit, and in that respect, we think the Triumph Speed 400 is something you should try out. It’s a stylish, high-quality bike that packs strong performance and is also very easy to ride.

If you want something with a little more character from the engine, then the Yamaha MT-03 might be just what you’re looking for, but that bike will cost substantially more than the Triumph and is only slated to launch by the end of this financial year.

Also See:

Triumph Speed 400 vs KTM 390 Duke comparison: Family feud

Triumph Speed 400 vs RE Hunter 350 vs Classic 350 comparison: Retro rivalry