Honda CB500X 

 

 Honda CB500X Launch Date: 

 

CB500X was first launched in India in March last year as compact twin adventurer bike. In February this year, Honda has updated this bike with some significant add-ons. 

 

 Honda CB500X Price: 

 

It is offered only in one variant. The original price during the launch more than year ago was Rs 6.87 lakh (ex-showroom). But, realising that the bike was significantly over-priced, the company decided to cut the price by a massive Rs 1.08 lakh. It is now offered at an ex-showroom price of Rs 5.79 lakh. 

 

 Honda CB500X Features: 

 

It's a mid-sized adventure bike, but its overall appearance doesn't justify its premium range. The bike is not for hardcore off-road drive, but for long-distance rides in urban set-up. The semi-fairing bike has a sharp design for the headlight and heighted windscreen. The front wheel is a new aluminium one that's 100 grams lighter than the one used earlier. It has a full-digital instrument cluster with features like odometer, tachometer, speedometer, low fuel indicator, and low oil indicator, among others. A noticeable feature in the bike is Emergency Stop Signal which detects sudden braking and automatically turns on the hazard lights. There is Honda Ignition Security System (HISS) too that automatically negates the starting of the bike via electronic control. 

 

 Honda CB500X Performance: 

 

The eight-valve, liquid-cooled, parallel twin-cylinder motor engine is capable in generating 47 bhp of power at 8,500 rpm and 43.2 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. The bike is equipped with slipper clutch system to assist its six-speed manual transmission. There is telescopic suspension in the front and the rear is handled by Honda ProLINK Monoshock. The braking system is dual-channel ABS. The estimated top speed justifies the segment with 185 kmph. 


 


 Honda CB500X Capacity: 

 

The bike has good comfort on offer with a sturdy seating. The fuel tank can store 17.7 litres of petrol. 

 

 Honda CB500X Rivals: 

 

Kawasaki Versys 650, Benelli TRK 502, and Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT are the main competitors of this 500-cc bike.

Kawasaki Versys 650 
 
The Versys 650 from Kawasaki is a middle-weight adventure motorcycle. It is for the riders who like to go off the road on their route. 
 

 Kawasaki Versys 650 Launch Date: 
 
The BS6 version of this bike was launched to India sometime in June 2022. 
 

 Kawasaki Versys 650 Price: 
 
The Kawasaki Versys 650 comes in one standard variant and costs Rs. 7,36,000 ex-showroom in Delhi. 
 

 Kawasaki Versys 650 Design: 
 
The design and styling is very similar to its litre-class adventure tourer. It has a raised front upper cowl and a taller stance. 
The rear back-link suspension is exposed and adds to the design similar to Kawasaki’s Vulcan S and older ER-6f (Ninja 650R). 
The Versys 650 is available in two colour schemes, Lime Green with hints of black and silver. The second scheme is Metallic Phantom Silver in glossy black with hints of gray and red. 
 
 Kawasaki Versys 650 Dimension: 
 
The seat is tall at a height of 845 mm and the ground clearance is 170 mm allowing the bike to deal with off-roads better. 
The front gets hydraulic fork suspension and the rear gets a horizontal back-link suspension with adjustable preload. 
The Versys 650 has a kerb weight of 219 kilograms. 
 

 Kawasaki Versys 650 Features: 
 
The Versys 650 gets a multi-purpose digital TFT colour instrument cluster which has Bluetooth connectivity through the ‘Rideology’ app. 
The Versys 650 gets a twin LED headlight setup. The windshield on this adventurer is 4-step adjustable without tools, right from the rider’s seat. 
Since it can go off-roading sometimes, the Versys 650 gets KTRC (Kawasaki TRaction Control) with two modes. A USB charger comes as an accessory. 
 

 Kawasaki Versys 650 Engine and Performance: 
 
A 649cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, parallel twin cylinder engine powers the Versys 650. It churns out 66 PS power at 8,500 RPM and 61 Nm torque at 7,000 RPM. 
It also gets a four valve per cylinder configuration for better power and efficiency. The mill is mated to a 6-speed transmission. 
 

 Kawasaki Versys 650 Mileage: 
 
The Versys 650 returns a mileage between 22 to 26 kilometers a litre. 
It has a fuel tank capacity of 21 litres. 
 

 Kawasaki Versys 650 Rivals: 
 
Rivals to the Versys 650 include Suzuki V-Strom 650, Honda CB500 X, Yamaha Ténéré 700, Benelli TRK 502, Triumph Tiger Sport 660, Triumph Tiger 850 Sport, Moto Guzzi V85 TT, CF Moto 650 MT, KTM 890 Adventure, KTM 390 Adventure, BMW F 850 GS and Royal Enfield Himalayan.

Honda CB500X STD

Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS BS6

The MT-15 is a little motorcycle, with its look unchanged from before, emulating Yamaha's larger MT-09 and MT-10 naked bikes. The alien-like appearance attracts a lot of attention. The bike looks fantastic in this new red and white colour scheme. Its current MotoGP-inspired livery, which surrounds the bike in black paint and Monster Energy insignia, adds even more beauty to its basic design.
 

Looks and built 
 

The Yamaha MT-15 has all-LED headlights and taillights, however the indicators remain bulbs.  Apart from the usual information and warning lights, the negative LCD instrument cluster displays the gear position, shift light, and mileage indication. In addition, the motorcycle's side stand has an engine cut-off feature. 
 

Riding ergonomics
 

Like the R15 v3, the MT-15 BS6 uses the same deltabox frame, front conventional telescopic fork, and rear monoshock unit. Steel box swingarms are used on the MT-15's rear swingarm. It's significantly quicker to steer, with a shorter wheelbase and updated suspension geometry, and can easily be flicked from one corner to the next.
 

Engine and Power
 

The 155cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled 4-valve motor on the Yamaha MT-15 produces 18.6PS horsepower and 14.1Nm of torque. In comparison to the BS4 variant, engine outputs are decreased by 0.7PS and 0.6Nm. The MT-15 BS6 and the R15 BS6 have identical engine tunes, however the naked MT-15 BS6 has a shorter final drive ratio (due to a larger rear sprocket), making it faster for commuting. The motorbike gets Variable Valve Actuation, just like the R15 v3. The technology enables the 155cc engine to achieve peak performance at more revs. The engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission with a slipper clutch and assist. The assist function minimises lever effort, while the slipper clutch prevents the rear wheel from locking up during forceful downshifting.
 

Safety Features
 

The Yamaha MT-15 rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with a 100-section tubeless front tyre and a 140-section tubeless radial in the rear. As opposed to traditional rubber, the latter has a stronger sidewall, which improves cornering. It has single-channel ABS with a 282mm front and 220mm rear disc for braking.

Hero Splendor Plus 
 
Splendor Plus is Hero Motocorp's one of the best-selling products in the market. Kick-start with alloy wheels, self-start with alloy wheels, self-start with alloys and i3S, are the three variations of the motorbike. While the motorcycle's appearance has stayed constant, Hero has introduced a new Black and Accent variation as well as a 100 Million Edition to keep the market interested. The wheels, engine, and chain cover have all been blacked out. It comes in five colour variants: Matte shield gold, Black with silver, Black with purple, Black with sports red and Heavy grey with green. 
 

 Looks and built: 
 

The Hero Splendor BS6 has a rectangular halogen headlamp with rectangle-shaped halogen turn indicators mounted on the front. A small visor, which is an extension of the motorcycle's plastic panels, is also included, along with a rectangle-shaped halogen tail lamp at the back. As an instrument cluster, the Hero Splendor Plus has analogue dials that display the speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, and other information. Splendor Plus has a ground clearance of 165 mm, a height of 1052 mm, a length of 2000 mm, a wheelbase of 1236 mm, and a width of 720 mm. 
 

 Riding ergonomics: 
 

A tubular double-cradle frame underpins the new Hero Splendor Plus. The motorcycle's suspension is handled by telescopic forks in the front and five-step adjustable hydraulic dual shock absorbers in the back. The Splendor Plus provides a luxurious ride that glides effortlessly even over speed bumps and rugged terrain. The motorcycle is equipped with large 18-inch tubeless tyres. Both of the Hero Splendor Plus BS6's tyres are 80/100 section 18-inch units with the identical dimensions. 
 

 Engine and Power: 
 

The Splendor Plus's 100cc carbureted engine has been modified with Hero's 'XSens technology' fuel-injection system. At 8,000 rpm, the engine now produces 7.91bhp and 8.05Nm, while at 6,000 rpm, it produces 8.05Nm. This is a 1.3bhp loss, with torque staying unchanged but reaching 1000rpm later. The engine is still paired with a four-speed transmission. 
 

 Safety Features: 
 

From a safety standpoint, this Commuter bike is equipped with a Multiplate Wet Clutch Slipper Clutch. This commuter motorcycle's braking responsibilities are handled by a 130 mm drum unit on both ends, as well as an IBS (integrated braking system) as an added safety feature.

Royal Enfield Classic 350 Launch Date 
 

Making the vintage look its USP, Royal Enfield Classic 350 is ruling the hearts of ardent bike lovers since 2008. Its latest version was launched in September last year. Its popularity can be understood from the fact that it is one of the most searched bikes, particularly after the arrival of the BS 6 model. The model topped the sales charts among bikes in the range of 200 and 500 cc capacity, according to the figures for February 2022. 

 

 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Price: 

 

The bike comes with five variants, namely, the Redditch, Halcyon, Signals, Dark, and Chrome. The Redditch is the base model with the price of Rs1.84 lakh (ex-showroom) and the premium-most Chrome is sold at Rs2.21 lakh (ex-showroom). 

 

 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Features: 

 

The bullet-maker has retained the round-shaped headlight and mirror, analogue speedometer, hallmark teardrop fuel tank, and features that appeal to bikers. However, a variety of features have been introduced to update the Classic 350, like the USB port which is placed below the handlebars. It has a dual-channel, anti-lock braking system. The bike comes with alloy wheels and tubeless tyres. All the variants have different colours and including all, the bike is available in 11 colours. 

 

 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Performance: 
 
The iconic bike is powered by a 349-cc single-cylinder engine that is air-oil cooled. It can generate a maximum torque of 27 Nm at 4000 rpm and a maximum power of 20.21 PS at 6100 rpm. The bike can reach a speed of 120 kmph and rides smooth even at a speed of 100 kmph and beyond. It weighs around 195 kg, which is still more than its earlier versions. 

 

 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Capacity: 

 
The company has retained its traditional seating, however, it claims that the seats are much wider now to bring more comfort. 

 

 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Rivals: 

 
It competes with Honda CB 350 RS, Jawa Perak and Honda Hness CB350.

TVS Apache RTR 160 
 
TVS has given Indian bikers the thrill of racing from their race-inspired RTR series. ‘RTR’ is the abbreviation for ‘Racing Throttle Response’ and it is self-explanatory. 
 

 TVS Apache RTR 160 Launch Dates: 
 
TVS Apache RTR 160 was first released in 2007. Several developments have taken place in the subsequent models. 
The most recent RTR 160 was the BS VI version which was launched in January 2020. 
 

 TVS Apache RTR 160 Price: 

 
The Apache RTR 160 is priced at Rs. 1,09,640 for the rear drum brake variant and Rs. 1,12,640 for the rear disc brake type. Kindly note that both prices are ex-showroom in Delhi. 

 

 TVS Apache RTR 160 Design: 

 
The muscular look with an aerodynamic design of the RTR 160 is very unique to the Indian market. This entry-level sports bike from TVS is ideal for riders with a flair for racing. 

A contoured seat and a pair of clip-on handlebars give adequate control. 

The Apache RTR 160 is given decals that suit the theme of the bike. It comes in T-Grey, Matte Red, Matte Blue, Gloss Red, Gloss Black, and Pearl White colour variants. 

 

 TVS Apache RTR 160 Dimension: 

 
The Apache is known for its power-to-weight ratio and its RTR 160 model is one of the lightest sports bikes there are in the market. The kerb weight of this bike is just 140 kilograms. 

With a comfortable saddle (seat) height of 790mm, it is also ideal for short riders. 

 

 TVS Apache RTR 160 Features: 

 
The Apache RTR 160 has ‘Glide Through Technology’ where the ECU increases the engine RPM to assist in moving through traffic without throttle use. 

This sporty-looking motorcycle comes with a halogen headlight, semi-digital instrument cluster, LED DRLs and tail lamp units. 

To keep costs low, the RTR 160 only gets a single-channel ABS. 


 

 TVS Apache RTR 160 Engine and Performance: 

 
The RTR 160 comes with a power-packed 159.7cc air-cooled engine. The single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine produces 15.53 BHP at 8,400 RPM and 13.9 Nm torque at 7,000 RPM. 

This engine is governed by a 5-speed gearbox. According to TVS, the tank cowl is specially designed to keep the engine cool by about 10 degrees Celsius. 

TVS’s Race Tuned Fuel Injection (RT-Fi) engine gives quick acceleration. The BS6 version surprisingly produces more power than its BS4 variant. 

 

 TVS Apache RTR 160 Mileage: 

 
The Apache 160 comes with a 12 litre fuel tank with a claimed mileage of 45 to 50 kilometers a litre. This will give the bike a range of about 550 kilometers in a full tank of fuel. 

 

 TVS Apache RTR 160 Rivals: 

 
Yamaha FZ and MT-15 as well as Bajaj’s Pulsar 150 and NS200 are worthy rivals. Other contenders include KTM 200, Suzuki Gixxer, and Honda X-Blade.

TVS Raider 125 Launch Date 

 

The bike was launched in September last year. Loaded with several features which are backed by stylish looks, TVS is making its 125-cc offering to the budget buyers. 

 

 TVS Raider 125 Price: 

 
The bike has two variants—drum brake and disc brake. The company recently raised the price of TVS Raider 125 by Rs 1,600 and now the drum brake variant will cost Rs 84,573, while the disc brake version will cost Rs 89,089. 
 

 TVS Raider 125 Features: 

 

At first instance, TVS Raider’s great sporty look will really grab your attention as the bike definitely gives a feel of a 150 or 160 cc machine. It comprises LED headlight and taillight, a five-inch digital display, along with two ride modes: Eco and Power. The bike also has an idle stop-start system, gear indicators. The suspension is equipped by a gas-charged 5-step preload adjustable mono-shock suspension at the back and the company's special ‘Low friction’ suspension on front. The top variant adds TFT display, Bluetooth and Voice Assistant features. It also has a side-stand down kill addition. A USB port is an optional feature. The fuel tank capacity is 10 litres. TVS Raider 125 is available in four colours: Wicked Black, Blazing Blue, Striking Red, and Fiery Yellow. 

 

 TVS Raider 125 Performance: 
 

The 124.8cc engine is three-valve and air-cooled engine. It generates maximum power of 11.4hp at 7,500 rpm and maximum torque of 11.2Nm at 6,000 rpm. TVS claims that the speed of 0-60 kmph takes 5.9 seconds, while the average is 67 kmph. The top speed is clocked at 99 kmph. 

 

 TVS Raider 125 Capacity: 

 
Like other sporty-look bikes, this one has a split seating arrangement in which two people can enjoy a ride comfortably. It also has an under-seat storage system, which is one of the first in the segment. The kerb weight of the bike is 123 kg. 
 

 TVS Raider 125 Rivals: 

The model competes with Bajaj Pulsar NS 125 and Honda SP 125.

Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 
 

 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 launch Date: 

 

The Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 was launched first on December 2012, but after multiple price hikes, the latest one hit the markets in January this year. 

 

 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 Price: 

 

The Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 now costs Rs 1,40,544 (ex-showroom Delhi). The new BS6-compliant engine provides higher torque and slightly more power. 

 

 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 Features: 

 

The NS 200 has a strong streetfighter style with a powerful mass-forward appearance. It has a semi-digital instrument cluster and a halogen headlight with pilot lights. The taillight is LED-equipped. The speedometer, tripmeter, and odometer is in digital format, while, the tachometer is analogue. However, like other bikes from the Pulsar family, NS200 is not feature-rich. Elevated clip-on handlebars and split seats are added to the motorcycle. There is no scope for phone connectivity. Bajaj has equipped the Pulsar 200 NS with single-channel anti-braking system (ABS) to keep costs down. 

The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 sits above the Pulsar 220F in terms of price. To distinguish it from the earlier model, the naked motorbike has three new dual-tone colour schemes: Burnt Red, Pewter Grey, Satin Blue, and Metallic Pearl White. 

 

 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 Performance: 

 

A 199.5cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled fuel-injected engine powers the Bajaj Pulsar NS 200. At 9,750 rpm, it generates 24.5PS and 18.5Nm torque at 8,000 rpm. The BS6 200 NS generates 1PS and 0.2Nm greater than the BS4 variant. Its engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission gearbox.As far as suspension is concerned, it has telescopic front forks and the rear portion has preload adjustable monoshock. The bike can clock the top speed of 120-125 kmph. 

 

 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 Capacity: 

 

The bike weighs 159.5 kg and has a fuel tank capacity of 12 litres and the company claims mileage of 40.84 kmpl in cities. But, many owners claim a mileage of 35 kmpl. 

 

 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 Rivals: 

 

Rivals of Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 are Yamaha FZ25 and the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V.

Suzuki SV650 
 

When it comes to street bikes, the 650cc class is what most prefer. The Suzuki SV650 is a capable machine with the right features to make it one of the best street bikes ever. 
Since its release in 1999, it has been one of the leaders in the street bike segment in major countries across the world. 
 

 Suzuki SV650 Launch Date: 
 

The new version of the SV650 is expected to be launched in India in February 2023 or later. 
 

 Suzuki SV650 Price: 

 

Taking a hint from other markets, the Suzuki SV650 is expected to cost about Rs. 6.2 lakhs ex-showroom, Delhi. 
 

 Suzuki SV650 Design: 

 

This street bike is well balanced despite most of the mass being put to the front end. The SV650 is built around an exposed frame giving it a fearless stance. 
Although it has retained most of its design cues since 1999, the newest model has a few extra defining lines on the tank and headlight crown. An upswept exhaust does most of the talking in the rear. 
The SV650 is expected to be launched in Metallic Matte Black paint scheme. The tank is painted matte black, the rest of the body in metallic black while the frame and rims are painted dark blue. The three tone paint scheme makes it stand out of the crowd. 
The earlier models however came in Metallic Silver, Glass Sparkle Black as well as Metallic Matte Black. 
 
 Suzuki SV650 Dimension: 

 

The dimensions and design of the SV650 has adequately matched the middle-weight street-bike segment. It is just 2.5 feet in width and 7 feet in length. 
An absence of a bash-plate on an already exposed engine, makes the engine and silencer bend-pipe even further. With a ground clearance of 135mm however, the SV640 should be able to negotiate through the streets well enough. 
The bike weighs 198 kilograms which is slightly lower than many Royal Enfield models. 
 

 Suzuki SV650 Features: 

 

Apart from essential readings, the compact full digital LCD instrument cluster also displays coolant temperature, oil pressure, ABS alert, gear position, fuel consumption pattern and riding range. 
Suzuki’s Low RPM Assist feature under the EFI system adjusts the RPM according to the movement in traffic. This feature makes it quite impossible for the bike to stall while wading through traffic. 
The TI-ISC (Throttle-body Integrated Idle Speed Control) feature patented by Suzuki is included as a standard in the SV650. This system eases starting, regulates engine idling and reduces emissions. 
 

 Suzuki SV650 Engine and Performance: 

 

A 645cc liquid-cooled 90 degree V-twin engine is mated with a 6-speed transmission. This mill produces 76 BHP at 8,500 RPM and 64 Nm torque at 8,100 RPM. 
Better engine management is given to the SV650 through its Engine Control Module (ECM). This system enhances the engine settings to provide better linear throttle response. 
The gear ratio is lower on this street bike to give better pickup. 
 

 Suzuki SV650 Mileage: 

 
The Suzuki SV650 is popular among street bikes for returning a mileage of about 25 to 30 kilometres a litre. It has a fuel tank capacity of 14.5 litres. 
Both cylinder heads of this V-twin engine feature Suzuki’s Dual Spark Technology that has higher combustion efficiency thereby, giving cleaner emissions and better fuel efficiency. 
 

 Suzuki SV650 Rivals: 

 

This midweight street bike has very few contenders. Direct rivals in terms of price and class include Kawasaki Ninja 650, Kawasaki Z650, Aprilia Tuono 660, Benelli TNT 600i, Triumph Trident 660, Royal Enfield Continental GT 650, Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, CFMoto 650 NK, KTM Duke 690 R and Yamaha MT-07. 
Kawasaki Vulcan S 650, Kawasaki Versys 650, Honda CB 650 R, Honda CBR 650 R, Triumph Tiger Sport 660, Suzuki V-Strom 650 and Ducati Scrambler are other noteworthy contenders to the Suzuki SV650.

Honda CB500X vs Kawasaki Versys 650

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Max Power
47.5 PS @ 8500 rpm	66 PS @ 8500 rpm

Stroke
66.8 mm	60 mm

Max Torque
43.2 Nm @ 6500 rpm	61 Nm @ 7000 rpm

Transmission
Manual	Manual