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A motorcycle for 2L.

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  • A motorcycle for 2L.

    Hello fellow XBhpians, I am out in hunt for a new motorcycle. The following are my specs & requirements.

    • Budget : 2L
    • Age : 25
    • Height : 5'6" foot
    • Weight : 85kg
    • Intended usage : Office commute & weekend roadtrip
    • City & Highway percentage usage : 50/50
    • Approximate Monthly running : 800Km


    I currently ride a 2008 discover 135 which has served its purpose pretty good.

    I'll be getting the bike in a month. I've narrowed down my search to,
    1. RE Classic 350
    2. Honda CBR250RA
    3. KTM Duke 390
    4. Yamaha YZF-R15 V2
    5. CBR150R
    6. Hero Karizma ZMR
    7. Pulsar 200NS


    After a long research & test ride, I felt
    1. Classic 350 doesn't feel as premium as the 90's bullet(on which I started my riding)
    2. CBR250R to be more relaxed & refined.
    3. Duke 200 made me smile but the upright riding position doesn't feel comfortable to me for long riding hours as I'm huge. Hence the 390 is ruled out. But if I were in the same dilemma 5years back I would have chosen the duke 200/390 eyes closed.
    4. R15 V2 was sporty & too crouched.
    5. CBR150R was smooth but I find it lacking in power.
    6. ZMR, felt comfortable but not much refined & too much vibration(compared to the others in this list)
    7. 200NS doesn't feel at home(again my physique is the issue).


    So narrowed down to CBR250RA.
    Am I good to go for the CBR or is it worth waiting for the new bikes like Pulsar 375 or something else(say, it will be released by the end of this year)? But to be honest, waiting is my worst enemy.

    Any suggestions are welcome.
    Also can anyone confirm whether the 250R delivered in Chennai are with MRF tyres?

  • #2
    Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

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    • #3
      Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

      CBR 250 is a sports tourer and as you said, a relaxed ride. Since you've test ridden every other option, there is nothing else to suggest because you already got the real feeling and hence narrowed your choice. Pulsar 375 is rumored to be a sports tourer too but you'll have to wait till Diwali atleast & reviews will start coming only after deliveries unless you want to be the one reviewing. Choice is yours - the CBR should quench your thirst and fulfill your requirements IMO. Also, IIRC it doesn't come with MRF but ContiGo (Continental).

      Fellow xbhpian [MENTION=52105]Vykier[/MENTION] has done some heavy touring (mind you, it is hardcore) with the CBR. He can throw some light if you want.
      BENEATH THE REMAINS.........
      Instagram - chaosaddict666 (follow for atypical uploads on heavy metal, bikes, alcohol, chakna, life, fashion yada, yada)
      YouTube - chaosaddict666 (Disclaimer: crappiest uploads ever, viewer discretion is advised)

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      • #4
        Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

        Originally posted by Shiv_beam View Post
        After a long research & test ride, I felt
        1. Classic 350 doesn't feel as premium as the 90's bullet(on which I started my riding)
        2. CBR250R to be more relaxed & refined.
        3. Duke 200 made me smile but the upright riding position doesn't feel comfortable to me for long riding hours as I'm huge. Hence the 390 is ruled out. But if I were in the same dilemma 5years back I would have chosen the duke 200/390 eyes closed.
        4. R15 V2 was sporty & too crouched.
        5. CBR150R was smooth but I find it lacking in power.
        6. ZMR, felt comfortable but not much refined & too much vibration(compared to the others in this list)
        7. 200NS doesn't feel at home(again my physique is the issue).


        So narrowed down to CBR250RA.
        Am I good to go for the CBR or is it worth waiting for the new bikes like Pulsar 375 or something else(say, it will be released by the end of this year)? But to be honest, waiting is my worst enemy.

        Any suggestions are welcome.
        Also can anyone confirm whether the 250R delivered in Chennai are with MRF tyres?
        [MENTION=63399]Shiv_beam[/MENTION] You have already done an extensive research and your findings are very consistent. CBR250R is currently the best thing you can own for less than 2L. You may also like the TB500 - it surely feels more premium than CL350/CL500. Do take a TD and check if it suits your tastes.

        Newer (2013) CBRs in Bangalore are being delivered with MRFs. Somebody from Chennai can confirm this further.

        Biking is not about how many Km/h you put on your Speedo. It's about how many miles you put on your Odo. Ride Safe, Ride Long!

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        • #5
          Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

          Originally posted by Shiv_beam View Post
          Hello fellow XBhpians, I am out in hunt for a new motorcycle.
          Why not reconsider RE CL350 mate? It definitely is a head turner, mighty and more importantly it will serve the purpose even after marriage . 'Both' families will like you and CL350. I mean just visualize it. Money once put in can't be retrieved.

          However if you intend to purchase the bike only for yourselves like touring, sports and have a car for family, then the 'sporty' CBR350 it is .
          My DIY(s) - Sprocket bearing change | Paint job | Custom speedo dial

          Getting angry at somebody is the same as getting angry with a bike that just won't go. You should stop and start thinking.
          A good mechanic will let you watch even without charging you for it. |
          It is funny to know that we've been imitated and copied so well
          and surprising when we notice our mistakes are copied as well.

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          • #6
            Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

            @Shiv_beam you have made a good choice, just close your eyes and go for it. . . BTW also the new colours are really jaw dropping, especially the Repsol Edition and the Matt Black one, really loved it a lot. . . The tricolor also looks good, just check which you will like. . . Try getting an ABS variant if you ask me, also if you are not going for ABS then better put the extra money you get on better gears and a better helmet if you don't have one. . .

            Cheers!!!
            Yamaha Rx135 - 2005 - 2007 (stolen :mad:)
            Scooty Pep - 2008 - 2012 (sold)
            Honda Unicorn - 2012 - 2015 (crashed)
            Hero Honda Splendor+ 2015 - present (temporary ride)
            Bajaj Pulsar AS200 - 16th September 2015 - present ride

            10 years into riding :D
            Live2Race. . .

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            • #7
              Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

              Do a test ride of Duke 390. Handle bar is wider than duke 200. I feel very comfortable on 390. Check the bike once.

              Sent from my M030
              Duke 390 bangalore owners facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/KTM.D390.Bnglr.Ownr/

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              • #8
                Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

                Originally posted by Shiv_beam View Post
                Hello fellow XBhpians, I am out in hunt for a new motorcycle....
                ... the 250R delivered in Chennai are with MRF tyres?
                I think the CBR250r will suit the kind of ride you're looking for... I myself had the same issues with the Duke being too upright and wind resistant while the R15 being very sporty and crouched. I too started road tripping on a 1997 RE Machismo and moved to the ceeber. Things that made me lean towards a CBR - Refined Engine, more reliable than myself (so I can personally depend on it with my life - my life is impulsive ride outs), Radiator, high rpm range, its toury torque lower down and ride ergonomics. But what I went nuts for in one word is 'balance'... the bike somehow has the ability to saturate your mind with that word in many ways... whether it be transmission, torque & power, gear ratios, speeds, handling, comfort, powerband, the soft touring suspension setup etc.

                Its a kind of bike that you just sit and ride with... i've been lost in crazy places while soloing and issues with the bike are the LAST thing on my mind... whether it be pouring like cats and dogs or otherwise. Maintain it like the manual suggests and everytime you insert the key and press the ignition button, the bike will be ready and rearing to go.

                Another good bit about it is the fact that you'll have tonnes of aftermarket upgrades to play with in different ways... but make sure you juice out whats already given... its a goooood, well made stock machine... use it before you abuse it.

                I personally find myself still grinning in excitement when I zip up my jacket everytime before I mount my ride. It'll get you touring a lot more trust me. The reason I started soloing.

                Right... I can't let myself speak anymore lest it become an ad for the CBR... ... I just love it to bits man... cant stop.

                As for tyres, Pulsar 375s and other doubts... i trust you've gotten a very well informed, dependable answer from [MENTION=48174]chaosaddict[/MENTION]

                Rock 'n Ride folks.

                Comment


                • #9
                  Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

                  Originally posted by Vykier View Post
                  Right... I can't let myself speak anymore lest it become an ad for the CBR... ... I just love it to bits man... cant stop.

                  As for tyres, Pulsar 375s and other doubts... i trust you've gotten a very well informed, dependable answer from some idiot.
                  Woooohoooo! What a reply.... What is Akshay Kumar doing being the face of Honda? We've the legit man now.
                  Seriously, awesome...
                  Just FYI, few batches have Contigos and few have MRF Zapper FS.
                  Got a $5 head? Get a $5 helmet.
                  Because everyone who passes, isn't a martyr!

                  Bullet Service Guide CBR 250R Parts Manual Fz16 service manual - https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1-...VFQmJzakk/view
                  Hero Moto Corp Bikes' Parts RE STD 350 Wiring Diagram (CI) Service Manual - Classic 350/500
                  ZMR parts - https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-U...it?usp=sharing
                  P200NS Spares' prices - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/...taGd5R2c#gid=0

                  Comment


                  • #10
                    Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

                    Originally posted by Divya Sharan View Post
                    Woooohoooo! What a reply.... What is Akshay Kumar doing being the face of Honda? We've the legit man now.
                    Seriously, awesome...
                    Did I see anything of concern here???
                    BENEATH THE REMAINS.........
                    Instagram - chaosaddict666 (follow for atypical uploads on heavy metal, bikes, alcohol, chakna, life, fashion yada, yada)
                    YouTube - chaosaddict666 (Disclaimer: crappiest uploads ever, viewer discretion is advised)

                    Comment


                    • #11
                      Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

                      Originally posted by chaosaddict View Post
                      the CBR should quench your thirst and fulfill your requirements IMO. Also, IIRC it doesn't come with MRF but ContiGo (Continental).
                      Originally posted by bbsrailfan View Post
                      Newer (2013) CBRs in Bangalore are being delivered with MRFs. Somebody from Chennai can confirm this further.
                      Called up Lodha Honda, Santorium(opp. to MEPZ) & they've confirmed that they have the new batch with MRF tyres.

                      Originally posted by petrolhead_chn View Post
                      However if you intend to purchase the bike only for yourselves like touring, sports and have a car for family, then the 'sporty' CBR350 it is .
                      I guess you meant the 250R.

                      Originally posted by Rakesh Rok View Post
                      @Shiv_beam you have made a good choice, just close your eyes and go for it. . . BTW also the new colours are really jaw dropping, especially the Repsol Edition and the Matt Black one, really loved it a lot. . . The tricolor also looks good, just check which you will like. . . Try getting an ABS variant if you ask me, also if you are not going for ABS then better put the extra money you get on better gears and a better helmet if you don't have one. . .
                      I've narrowed down to black ABS already.
                      Are you sure it is Matte black?

                      Originally posted by Abhiman View Post
                      Do a test ride of Duke 390. Handle bar is wider than duke 200. I feel very comfortable on 390. Check the bike once.
                      Will do, but i guess the leg room is still the same as D200.

                      Originally posted by Vykier View Post
                      Right... I can't let myself speak anymore lest it become an ad for the CBR... ... I just love it to bits man... cant stop.
                      Indeed your words are more inspiring.

                      Comment


                      • #12
                        Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

                        Originally posted by Shiv_beam View Post
                        I've narrowed down to black ABS already.
                        Are you sure it is Matte black?
                        Sorry about that bro, I think it's metallic black if I am not wrong , but wait,
                        Click image for larger version

Name:	2013_CBR250R_580x385_Black_42515B.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	41.6 KB
ID:	1858774
                        This is the one and really has the Killer Look. . . BTW congrats on your booking, keep us posted with pics, . .

                        Cheers!!!
                        Yamaha Rx135 - 2005 - 2007 (stolen :mad:)
                        Scooty Pep - 2008 - 2012 (sold)
                        Honda Unicorn - 2012 - 2015 (crashed)
                        Hero Honda Splendor+ 2015 - present (temporary ride)
                        Bajaj Pulsar AS200 - 16th September 2015 - present ride

                        10 years into riding :D
                        Live2Race. . .

                        Comment


                        • #13
                          Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

                          Given your requirements, before you go on with the CBR, you should once try out the TBTS 500. When your gonna shell out 2L, which is not a small amount, its better to be through. CBR is not doubt more refined (It's after all a Honda) but as you have stated that you have a big physique, the TBTS will suit you more IMO.

                          Also, with the New UCE engine and the attention paid to the flagship mode of RE, the TBTS is now niggle free. I have a the same and can vouch for it. It's the first through bred cruiser from RE which can be used for commutes equally well. You will have equivalent fun on both bikes, but in a totally different manner. CBR will make you wanna twist the throttle and hear it rev, while the RE will give you a pure thumping pleasure.

                          CBR

                          PROS :

                          1.) Better Refined Engine.
                          2.) Higher Top end.
                          3.) Negligible Maintenance. (Fill fuel and go)
                          4.) ABS

                          THUNDERBIRD 500

                          PROS:

                          1.) More power. (bhp)
                          2.) More Torque
                          3.) Thump and road presence.
                          4.) Its an RE. (Totally subjective point.) :P

                          Comment


                          • #14
                            Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

                            Originally posted by TBTS-350 View Post
                            ..

                            THUNDERBIRD 500

                            PROS:

                            1.) More power. (bhp)
                            2.) More Torque

                            ..

                            Unfortunately, the way an RE engine and the whole motorcycle is designed, even with more power and torque on paper CBR250 will still outperform it in all conditions (not just top speed). Even when riding two-up or with luggage, CBR goes better than the TB500. The only thing I see in TB500's favor is the upright riding position which again boils down to the rider's preference.
                            The Chronicles of Motorcycling - The Man, The Machine and The Road

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                            • #15
                              Re: A motorcycle for 2L.

                              Originally posted by Satellite.kid View Post
                              Even when riding two-up or with luggage, CBR goes better than the TB500.
                              In what sense do you say this brother? Where do you get these facts from?? What do ya mean by "Goes better"? In any case, the CBR was created with the intention of being a "Sports cruiser". TBTS on the other hand is no where near the word "Sports" actually light years away from it. Its a through-bred highway cruiser, which just happens to manage the city traffic with ease.

                              In any case, we just can't compare the 2 in terms of performance as both the bikes do not fall in the same category. Its like comparing a light weight and a heavy weight boxing champ.

                              The only and i repeat, the ONLY, thing where we can see performance is the torque which the TBTS offers at low RPM. Other than that, its not much of a performer nor anywhere near the CBR. But when you mention a tourer, well..... I'll leave you to your imagination.

                              Anyway's, it seems the OP has already chosen his machine, so no point dragging this forward. Has been Discussed like a zillion times in the forum.

                              OP : A very good choise you have made brother. I wish you many miles of fun and adventure. KEEP RIPPING!!!

                              Regards.

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