I currently ride a Hero Glamour, but I am looking for a new two-wheeler for a daily commute of around 70km in the eastern Himalayas. My priority is comfort and safety. The road conditions here are good, but rain and cold are a couple of things to consider.
Arnab Jha, Kalimpong
Autocar India says: Going by your priorities of comfort, along with challenging riding conditions of rain and cold, we would recommend a bike with a comfortable riding position as well as a little wind protection. ADV-tourers immediately come to mind for this sort of riding.
Since you currently ride a Hero Glamour and haven’t shared a budget for your new bike, we’ll keep the options at around Rs 2 lakh. Both the bikes we’re recommending have enough power to handle the hills, but aren’t too big or too powerful, and will still have reasonable running costs. At the lower end of the spectrum, you could consider the Honda CB200X, and if you are willing to spend a bit more, the Suzuki V-Strom 250 makes for a good choice.
The Suzuki costs more, but gives you a big step in performance and also packs in dual-channel ABS, against the front-wheel-only system on the Honda. Do try both bikes out though as they have higher seats than a regular road bike.
Also see:
Suzuki V-Strom SX road test review: Jack of all trades?
Suzuki V-Strom SX review: A 250cc ADV for the road
Honda CB200X review, test ride
