Beginner's Guide to Motorcycles: How to Choose Your First Ride in India

November 23, 2024

1. Identify Your Riding Purpose

Understanding your primary need will narrow down your options:

Daily Commute: Opt for fuel-efficient, lightweight bikes like commuter motorcycles.
Weekend Rides or Highway Trips: Consider comfortable cruisers or touring bikes.
Adventure/Off-Road Riding: Dual-sport or adventure bikes are ideal for Indian terrains.
Budget-Friendly Thrills: Choose entry-level sportbikes for a mix of style and performance.

2. Choose the Right Engine Capacity (cc)

Engine size directly affects power and fuel efficiency. For Indian conditions:

100cc to 125cc: Best for city commuting with excellent mileage (e.g., Hero Splendor, Honda Shine).
150cc to 200cc: Ideal for beginners looking for balanced performance and fuel efficiency (e.g., Bajaj Pulsar 150, TVS Apache RTR 160).
250cc to 500cc: Perfect for highway touring or sporty weekend rides (e.g., Royal Enfield Meteor 350, KTM Duke 250).

3. Understand Types of Motorcycles Available in India

Commuter Motorcycles: Affordable, reliable, and efficient (e.g., Bajaj Platina, Hero HF Deluxe).
Cruisers: Relaxed seating and smooth for long rides (e.g., Royal Enfield Classic 350, Jawa 42).
Sportbikes: Aggressive styling with a performance focus (e.g., Yamaha R15, KTM RC 200).
Adventure Bikes: For rugged terrains and versatile riding (e.g., Hero Xpulse 200, Royal Enfield Himalayan).

4. Ensure the Motorcycle Fits You Well

A motorcycle must suit your body type and comfort preferences:

Seat Height: Ensure you can touch the ground with both feet flat, especially for Indian city traffic and uneven roads. Bikes like the Honda CB350 and TVS Raider have comfortable seat heights.
Weight: For beginners, lighter bikes are easier to handle in congested areas.
Riding Posture: Test the seating and handlebar position to avoid discomfort during long rides.

5. Factor in Your Budget

Price Range: Entry-level motorcycles in India start from ₹60,000 and can go up to ₹2,50,000 or more for premium models.
Fuel Efficiency: Check the mileage (km/l). Models like Hero Splendor and TVS Star City are known for exceptional mileage.
Maintenance Costs: Research service intervals and spare part availability in your area.

6. Check for Safety Features

Indian roads can be unpredictable, so prioritize safety:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): Mandatory for bikes above 125cc, but even entry-level models like the Bajaj Pulsar 125 offer single-channel ABS.
Disc Brakes: Offer better braking performance compared to drum brakes.
Tubeless Tyres: More reliable and easy to repair on the go.

7. Research Resale Value and Brand Reputation

In India, resale value matters. Brands like Hero, Honda, Bajaj, and Royal Enfield are known for their reliability and strong resale value.

8. Test Ride Before You Buy

Visit showrooms and test ride your shortlisted models. Check for:

Smooth gear shifts.
Comfortable seating and ride quality.
Handling in traffic or uneven road conditions.

9. Consider Gear and Accessories

Invest in protective gear, including:

ISI-certified helmet (mandatory by law).
Gloves, riding jackets, and knee guards for safety and comfort during long rides.

10. Popular Beginner-Friendly Motorcycles in India

Here’s a list of bikes that are beginner-friendly:

Hero Splendor Plus (₹74,000) – Best for budget-conscious commuters.
Bajaj Pulsar Ns125 (₹1.10 Lakh) – A perfect blend of power and mileage.
TVS Apache RTR 200 (₹1.60 Lakh) – Stylish with great performance for beginners.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350 (₹1.50 Lakh) – Compact, powerful, and beginner-friendly.
KTM Duke 200 (₹1.96 Lakh) – For sporty rides with stunning performance.

Conclusion

Choosing your first motorcycle in India depends on your purpose, budget, and riding style. Start with a model that is easy to handle, reliable, and fuel-efficient to build your confidence. Remember, a good bike paired with the right safety gear ensures countless joyful rides ahead.