In the last couple of years, the Indian two-wheeler industry has seen tremendous growth. This is partially due to the influx of all-new models from both domestic and foreign manufacturers.
So we list five niche models priced between Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh that you should consider for a brand new bike when you’re on the market next time.
1. Kawasaki Ninja 400
This borrows feature cues from the iconic H2 and also comes with headlights from LEDs and tail lamps. Powering this baby Ninja is a liquid-cooled 399cc, parallel-twin engine which produces 49PS at 10,000rpm and 38Nm at 8000rpm.
2. Yamaha YZF-R3
The Yamaha YZF-R3, too, is available through the CKD route. The YZF-R3 comes with standard dual-channel ABS and grippy Metzeler Sportec M5 tires, priced at Rs 3.49 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
3. Benelli 302R
The Benelli 302R is the only manufactured motorcycle of the Italian brand in India. Because it is sharing its powertrain with its naked sister, the TNT 300.
So, motorcycle draws power from a liquid-cooled 300cc, parallel-twin engine that produces 38.5PS at 11.500rpm, and 26.5Nm at 10.000rpm.
The 302R, priced at Rs 3.48 lakh (ex-showroom), costs about the same as the R3. If you’re looking for a motorcycle with a unique exhaust note and Italian design flair, then the 302R is for you.
4. Kawasaki Versys-X 300
If you’re looking for a low-capacity, affordable ADV, the Versys-X 300 is the only choice that you have right now.
Because at Rs 4.69 lakh (ex-showroom) it’s not exactly cheap. But it comes with components that make it go off-road (long-travel telescopic forks and mono-shock), the engine is quite peaky.
5. BMW G 310 GS
The engine is truly efficient despite its displacement. During our tests, it delivered 37.39kmpl (town) and 31.94kmpl (highway). Therefore, despite the small 11-liter fuel tank, driving long distances shouldn’t be a big problem.
All in all, if you want a moderate off-roader with strong touring credentials and are unmistakably a GS, the G 310 GS is a good buy!