In a nation where bikes are more than just machines, they are a way of life, the call of the open road often leads to thrilling long-distance adventures. Whether you're a seasoned rider or someone with an unstoppable love for travel, having the right bike can make all the difference. The top 8 bikes that aim to make your long commute enjoyable are listed below.
8. BMW GS310
With the adaptability and accessibility needed for both beginner and experienced riders, the BMW G 310 GS is a reasonably priced adventure bike.
It features the famed performance and quality of BMW Motorrad. Designed to tackle a variety of terrains, this adventure bike is equally at home in the urban jungle as it is on winding mountain roads or unpaved trails.
Key Features
- Adventure-Ready: The G 310 GS is equipped with adventure-oriented features like long-travel suspension, upright riding position, and robust build quality.
- BMW Build Quality: Built to the high standards associated with the BMW brand, the G 310 GS offers reliability and durability.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 313cc, Single-Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled.
- Power: 34bhp.
- Torque: 28Nm.
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual.
- Fuel System: Fuel Injection.
- Brakes: Front and Rear Disc.
- Suspension: Inverted Fork (Front), Monoshock (Rear).
- Tire Size: Front 110/80-19, Rear 150/70-17.
- Seat Height: 835mm.
- Ground Clearance: 220mm.
- Weight: 169.5kg (kerb weight).
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 11 liters.
Design
The BMW G 310 GS features a compact and approachable design, with a beak-like front fender, asymmetrical headlamp, and a tall windscreen.
Pros
- Adventure DNA: The G 310 GS inherits the adventure DNA of its larger GS siblings, making it capable of light off-roading and long-distance touring.
- Fuel Efficiency: Its efficient engine ensures you can go long distances without frequent fuel stops.
- BMW Badge: Owning a BMW motorcycle is a matter of pride for many riders, and the G 310 GS offers that prestige at an accessible price point.
Cons
- Single-Cylinder Vibration: Some riders might notice vibrations from the single-cylinder engine, particularly at higher speeds.
- Limited Power: While adequate for most riding, experienced riders might desire more power for advanced off-road adventures.
Color Options
Racing Red, Cosmic Black, and Pearl White Metallic are just a few of the enticing colors that the BMW G 310 GS is offered in.
Price
The BMW G 310 GS is positioned as an entry-level adventure bike with a price of Rs 3.25 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a competitive choice in its segment.
7. Jawa Perak
In addition to being a motorcycle, the Jawa Perak is a statement of traditional vintage design merged with contemporary engineering.
Key Features
- Bobber Design: The Jawa Perak embraces the bobber style with its minimalist and stripped-down appearance. It has an obvious retro charm due to its classic designs, blacked-out components, and exposed mechanical components.
- Powerful Heart: Under the vintage exterior, the Perak houses a 334cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that offers a healthy dose of torque, making it an enjoyable bike to ride in various conditions.
- All-Black Theme: The Perak has an all-black theme, from the engine to the frame and exhaust, which improves its aesthetic appeal.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 334cc, Single-Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled.
- Power: 30.64bhp.
- Torque: 32.74Nm.
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual.
- Fuel System: Fuel Injection.
- Brakes: Front and Rear Disc.
- Suspension: Telescopic Fork (Front), Monoshock (Rear).
- Tire Size: Front 100/90-18, Rear 140/70-17.
- Seat Height: 750mm.
- Ground Clearance: 145mm.
- Weight: 179kg (kerb weight).
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 14 liters.
Design
The Jawa Perak is a true embodiment of the bobber design philosophy. Its simple bodywork, round headlamp, long, stretched-out profile, and single floating seat give it a genuine vintage appearance.
Pros
- Distinctive Design: The Perak's bobber styling is unique and eye-catching.
- Power Delivery: The 334cc engine provides ample torque for city commuting and occasional highway rides.
- Attention to Detail: Jawa has paid meticulous attention to detail in the Perak's design and finish.
Cons
- Single-Seat: While the bobber style is appealing, it limits the bike to a single-seat configuration.
- Limited Ground Clearance: The low ground clearance might be a concern on uneven roads.
Color Option
The Jawa Perak is available in a stunning shade called 'Matte Black'.
Price
The Jawa Perak is priced attractively, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Prices start at approximately Rs. 2,13,187 (ex-showroom).
6. Bajaj Dominar 400
A bike with power, performance, and flair at a competitive price is the Bajaj Dominar 400.
Key Features
- Power-Packed Engine: The Dominar 400 is powered by a 373.3cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that churns out a healthy dose of power and torque, ensuring a thrilling riding experience.
- Aggressive Styling: Its muscular and aggressive design, with a full LED headlamp and twin barrel exhaust, gives it a distinct and contemporary appearance.
- Comfortable Riding: Designed for long rides, it features a comfortable split-seat setup, upright riding posture, and a well-padded saddle.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 373.3cc, Single-Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled, Triple Spark.
- Power: 40bhp.
- Torque: 35Nm.
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual.
- Fuel System: Fuel Injection.
- Brakes: Front and Rear Disc with Dual-Channel ABS.
- Suspension: Upside-Down Fork (Front), Monoshock (Rear).
- Tire Size: Front 110/70-R17, Rear 150/60-R17.
- Seat Height: 800mm.
- Ground Clearance: 157mm.
- Weight: 184kg (kerb weight).
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13 liters.
Design
The Dominar 400 boasts a distinctive design with a beefy fuel tank, muscular tank shrouds, and a sleek, fully digital instrument cluster.
Pros
- Powerful Engine: The 400cc engine provides ample power and torque for spirited riding.
- Comfortable for Long Rides: The comfortable seating and upright riding posture make it ideal for long-distance touring.
- Value for Money: It offers a lot of features and performance for its price.
Cons
- Weight: At 184kg, it's on the heavier side for a bike in its segment.
- Limited Ground Clearance: The ground clearance might pose challenges on rough terrains.
Color Options
The Bajaj Dominar 400 is available in several attractive colors, including: Aurora Green, Charcoal Black.
Price
The Bajaj Dominar 400 offers excellent value for money, with prices starting at approximately Rs. 2,30,000 (ex-showroom).
5. KTM 390 Adventure
Amazing bikes like the KTM 390 Adventure are made for riders that enjoy exploration and adventure. It inherits the DNA of KTM's renowned off-road machines while being equally capable on the platform.
Key Features
- Off-Road Prowess: Built on KTM's off-road legacy, the 390 Adventure comes equipped with long-travel suspension, wire-spoke wheels, and knobby tires, ensuring it can handle rough terrains with ease.
- Powerful Engine: It's powered by a punchy 373cc, single-cylinder engine that delivers impressive torque and power, making it equally at home during highway cruising.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 373.2cc, Single-Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled.
- Power: 43.5bhp.
- Torque: 37Nm.
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual.
- Fuel System: Fuel Injection.
- Brakes: Front and Rear Disc with ABS.
- Suspension: WP Inverted Fork (Front), WP Monoshock (Rear).
- Tire Size: Front 100/90-19, Rear 130/80-17.
- Seat Height: 855mm.
- Ground Clearance: 200mm.
- Weight: 158kg (dry weight).
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 liters.
Design
The KTM 390 Adventure showcases a sharp and aggressive design, in line with KTM's signature style.
Pros
- Versatile Performance: It's equally proficient off-road and on the highway, making it a true adventure bike capable of handling various terrains.
- Advanced Electronics: The inclusion of riding modes, ABS, and traction control enhances safety and adaptability.
- Lightweight: Its relatively low weight for an adventure bike contributes to nimble handling.
Cons
- Tall Seat Height: The 855mm seat height might be challenging for shorter riders.
- Limited Pillion Comfort: The rear seat might not be as comfortable for long journeys.
Color Options
The KTM 390 Adventure is available in a range of striking colors, including: Dark-Galvano-Black, Atlantic-Blue.
Price
The KTM 390 Adventure offers a competitive price point for its segment, starting at approximately Rs. 3,38,000 (ex-showroom).
4. Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350
A vintage cruiser motorbike that captures the essence of long-distance touring is the Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350.
Key Features
- Cruiser Comfort: The Thunderbird 350 offers a laid-back riding position with a comfortable saddle and ergonomically designed handlebars, making it ideal for extended rides.
- Powerful Engine: It has a strong 346cc single-cylinder engine with enough torque, providing a stable and smooth ride on highways.
- Classic Design: The Thunderbird 350 retains Royal Enfield's classic design cues, including teardrop fuel tank, rounded headlamp, and iconic logo, giving it a timeless appeal.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 346cc, Single-Cylinder, Air-Cooled.
- Power: 19.8bhp.
- Torque: 28Nm.
- Transmission: 5-Speed Manual.
- Fuel System: Carbureted.
- Brakes: Front and Rear Disc (varies by model).
- Suspension: Telescopic Forks (Front), Twin Gas-Charged Shock Absorbers (Rear).
- Tire Size: Front 90/90-19, Rear 120/80-18.
- Seat Height: 775mm.
- Ground Clearance: 135mm.
- Weight: 192kg (kerb weight).
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 liters.
Design
The Thunderbird 350 boasts a classic cruiser design with a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, wide handlebars, and a comfortable split saddle.
Pros
- Comfortable Tourer: The relaxed riding posture and cushioned seats make it an excellent choice for long-distance touring.
- Classic Looks: It retains Royal Enfield's vintage design, appealing to riders who appreciate classic aesthetics.
- Ample Torque: The torque-rich engine delivers smooth power, making highway cruising effortless.
Cons
- Weight: The Thunderbird 350 is relatively heavy, which can be a drawback in heavy city traffic.
- Carbureted: Some riders may prefer a fuel-injected engine for improved fuel efficiency and performance.
Color Options
The Thunderbird 350 is available in a range of attractive colors, including: Marine, Stone, Flicker.
Price
The Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350 is competitively priced, offering excellent value for money. Prices start from Rs. 1,65,997 onwards (ex-showroom).
3. KTM 390 Duke
Customers that need both performance and style might choose the 390 Duke because it is a flexible vehicle. Both city streets and winding roads can be handled by it.
Key Features
- Performance: At the heart of the 390 Duke is a 373.2cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that churns out an impressive 42.9bhp, providing thrilling acceleration and top-end performance.
- Lightweight: Weighing in at just 149kg, the 390 Duke's lightweight chassis and nimble handling make it a joy to maneuver through traffic and corners.
- Advanced Electronics: This motorcycle has ride-by-wire technology, which includes a slipper clutch, numerous riding modes, and a completely digital TFT display that pairs with your smartphone via Bluetooth.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 373.2cc, Single-Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled.
- Power: 42.9bhp.
- Torque: 37Nm.
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual with Quick Shifter.
- Fuel System: Fuel Injection.
- Brakes: Front and Rear Disc Brakes with ABS.
- Suspension: Inverted Front Forks, Rear Monoshock.
- Tire Size: Front 110/70 R17, Rear 150/60 R17.
- Seat Height: 830mm.
- Ground Clearance: 185mm.
- Weight: 149kg (kerb weight).
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.5 liters.
Design
The KTM 390 Duke features a sharp and aggressive design. Its rare twin LED headlight, visible wire frame, and angular lines give it an attractive and modern look. Its sporty appearance is enhanced by the orange highlights and exposed components.
Pros
- Powerful Engine: The high-power engine of the 390 Duke provides amazing performance, making it an exciting ride for enthusiasts.
- Advanced Electronics: With features like multiple riding modes, quick shifter, and smartphone connectivity, it's a technologically advanced bike.
- Lightweight: The lightweight chassis and compact design make it incredibly agile and easy to handle.
Cons
Firm Ride: The sporty suspension setup, while great for handling, can sometimes feel stiff on rough roads.
Color Options
The KTM 390 Duke is available in a variety of vibrant color options, which may vary by region. Some popular choices include: Orange, Black.
Price
The KTM 390 Duke is competitively priced, considering the performance it offers. Prices start from Rs. 2,97,475onwards (ex-showroom).
2.Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220
When it comes to riding, the Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 is a cruiser bike made for people who prefer a calm, relaxed atmosphere.
Key Features
- Cruiser Styling: The Avenger Cruise 220 boasts classic cruiser styling with a low-slung design, wide handlebars, and a comfortable riding position.
- Powerful Engine: Equipped with a 220cc DTS-i engine, this cruiser delivers 19 bhp of power and 17.5 Nm of torque, providing ample performance for highway cruising.
- Comfortable Seating: The well-padded, cushioned seats ensure rider and pillion comfort during long rides, making it an ideal choice for touring.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 220cc, DTS-i, Oil-Cooled, Single-Cylinder.
- Power: 19 bhp.
- Torque: 17.5 Nm.
- Transmission: 5-Speed Manual.
- Fuel System: Carburetor.
- Brakes: Front Disc and Rear Drum.
- Suspension: Telescopic Front Forks, Twin Shock Absorbers (Rear).
- Tire Size: Front 90/90-17, Rear 130/90-15.
- Seat Height: 725 mm.
- Ground Clearance: 169 mm.
- Weight: 163 kg (kerb weight).
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13 liters.
Design
The Avenger Cruise 220 was created to represent the classic cruiser motorbike.Thanks to its lengthy wheelbase, retro-style headlamp, and massive fuel tank, it resembles a classic cruiser. A smooth fusion of old and new is created by the alloy wheels and chrome decorations, which bring a touch of modernity to the design.
Pros
- Classic Cruiser Aesthetics: The Avenger Cruise 220's design pays respect to the classic cruiser aesthetic, making it a fashionable and striking motorbike.
- Comfortable Ride: With its relaxed riding position and cushioned seats, this cruiser is built for long rides, ensuring rider and pillion comfort.
Cons
- Carburetor Fuel System: Some riders prefer fuel injection for better fuel efficiency and response, which the Avenger Cruise 220 lacks.
Color Options
The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 comes in a variety of attractive colors to suit different tastes. Some popular color options include: Plasma Blue, Cocktail Wine Red and Midnight Black (Expected).
Price
The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 is known for its affordability in the cruiser segment. Prices start from Rs. 1,31,826 onwards (ex-showroom).
1. Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
The famous vintage bike, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, is adored by riders all over the world. For both the traditional and modern rider, the Interceptor 650 family of new Royal Enfield motorcycles strikes the perfect balance between vintage style and modern technology.
Key Features
- Strong and Classic design: The Interceptor 650 features a classic, strong design similar to the golden era of motorcycling, making it a head-turner on the streets.
- Smooth Performance: Equipped with a 648cc, air-cooled, parallel-twin engine, the Interceptor 650 delivers 47 bhp of power and 52 Nm of torque.
- Mileage: With a mileage ranging from 25 to 30 kmpl, the Interceptor 650 ensures fewer stops at the fuel pump, allowing you to enjoy the open road for longer.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 648cc, Air-Cooled, Parallel-Twin.
- Power: 47 bhp.
- Torque: 52 Nm.
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual.
- Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
- Brakes: Front and Rear Disc Brakes.
- Suspension: Telescopic Forks (Front), Twin Shock Absorbers (Rear).
- Tire Size: Front 100/90-18, Rear 130/70-18.
- Seat Height: 804 mm.
- Ground Clearance: 174 mm.
- Weight: 202 kg (kerb weight).
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.7 liters.
Design
The Interceptor 650's design is a nod to the past, with its teardrop tank, wide handlebars, and minimalistic bodywork. The comfortable seating, both for the rider and pillion, ensures a relaxed posture for those long rides.
Pros
- Classic Styling: The Interceptor 650's classic design builds a sense of innovation and timeless charm.
- Smooth Engine Performance: Comfortable riding, especially on highways, is made possible by the parallel-twin engine's smooth power distribution.
Cons
Heavier Compared to Some Competitors: At 202 kg (kerb weight), the Interceptor 650 is relatively heavier than some of its counterparts, which may require more effort when drive at low speeds.
Color Options
Royal Enfield offers a variety of color options for the Interceptor 650, including classic single-tone shades and dual-tone options. Some of the popular colors include: Black Ray, Barcelona Blue, Black Pearl, Sunset Strip, Canyon Red, Cali Green, Mark 2.
Price
The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is competitively priced, making it an attractive choice for riders looking for classic styling and reliable performance. Prices start from Rs. 3,03,000onwards (ex-showroom).
So, there you have it - the top 8 bikes that are your ticket to thrilling long-distance adventures in India. Whether you seek comfort, performance, or affordability, there's a bike on this list for every adventurer. So get ready, hit the road, and make priceless memories with your two-wheeled companion.