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  • Need help: Which bike?

    I am soon to be 18, and will get my first bike. I've thought of a few options, but I'd like some help since I"m not sure as to what parameters to look at. Another important point for me is that my HEIGHT is 5'5", extendable upto 5'6" with shoes.
    Budget is around 2.5 lakhs.
    I'll mainly be using only for in bangalore, not really for long road trips. Looks of the bike matter a lot.

    My first choice is KTM RC 390, but at 820 mm seat height, will it work for me? This is one that I am really keen on, but any other points I should know?
    Other choices are similiar, with Duke 390 or RC 200, although the only reason for a duke over RC is the seat height, at 800 mm(according to me).

    Any other options? I'd appreciate any suggestions.

  • #2
    Re: Need help: Which bike?

    Query Approved

    That should not be a problem at all. I have seen people of similar height easily manage a bike as big as the Suzuki V-Strom and BMW R1200 GS Adventure which stand at 850mm and 895mm! Of course said bikers were experienced in the ways of the world, especially playing tippy toes on these bikes
    Biking is not about what you have between your legs, its all about how well you use it!!!!!!!

    Give your details here if you want to help your fellow xBhpian stranded in your city

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    • #3
      Re: Need help: Which bike?

      Originally posted by AngadV View Post
      I am soon to be 18, and will get my first bike. I've thought of a few options, but I'd like some help since I"m not sure as to what parameters to look at. Another important point for me is that my HEIGHT is 5'5", extendable upto 5'6" with shoes.
      Budget is around 2.5 lakhs.
      I'll mainly be using only for in bangalore, not really for long road trips.
      Looks of the bike matter a lot.

      My first choice is KTM RC 390, but at 820 mm seat height, will it work for me? This is one that I am really keen on, but any other points I should know?
      Other choices are similiar, with Duke 390 or RC 200, although the only reason for a duke over RC is the seat height, at 800 mm(according to me).

      Any other options? I'd appreciate any suggestions.
      Welcome here, poser.

      For 2.5 lakhs, get the RC200. Same looks as the RC390, and yet cheaper.

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      • #4
        Re: Need help: Which bike?

        Originally posted by AngadV View Post
        I am soon to be 18, and will get my first bike. I've thought of a few options, but I'd like some help since I"m not sure as to what parameters to look at. Another important point for me is that my HEIGHT is 5'5", extendable upto 5'6" with shoes.
        Budget is around 2.5 lakhs.
        I'll mainly be using only for in bangalore, not really for long road trips. Looks of the bike matter a lot.

        My first choice is KTM RC 390, but at 820 mm seat height, will it work for me? This is one that I am really keen on, but any other points I should know?
        Other choices are similiar, with Duke 390 or RC 200, although the only reason for a duke over RC is the seat height, at 800 mm(according to me).

        Any other options? I'd appreciate any suggestions.
        I faced a similar dilemma recently. I, too am 5'5 and I tried the Duke 200. I had to tip-toe on it literally and so I was not comfortable going for it. Did not even dare to try the RC390 after that. However that also depends a lot on your inseam and I feel I might be a bit on the lesser side. Regarding a purchase, I went for the CBR250R STD (due to budget constraints). Its quite comfortable at my height and if you have the budget you can consider going for the ABS version.

        Comment


        • #5
          Re: Need help: Which bike?

          Originally posted by AngadV View Post
          I am soon to be 18, and will get my first bike. I've thought of a few options, but I'd like some help since I"m not sure as to what parameters to look at. Another important point for me is that my HEIGHT is 5'5", extendable upto 5'6" with shoes.
          Budget is around 2.5 lakhs.
          I'll mainly be using only for in bangalore, not really for long road trips. Looks of the bike matter a lot.

          My first choice is KTM RC 390, but at 820 mm seat height, will it work for me? This is one that I am really keen on, but any other points I should know?
          Other choices are similiar, with Duke 390 or RC 200, although the only reason for a duke over RC is the seat height, at 800 mm(according to me).

          Any other options? I'd appreciate any suggestions.

          Hi Angad.. Buying your first MCY is one of the most amazing and exciting thing that happens in life and so it must be wise.
          Since it will going to be your first bike so it will be your primary one as well. There is no doubt that RC 390 is a great MCY but there are certain things you might need to consider:
          1. RC 390 is a sports bike intended to conquer the corners or to perform well on tracks but it will not be a comfortable vehicle to use on a day to day basis and/or city commuting because of the aggressive riding posture it offers.
          2. You should first decide which type of motorcycle you really want to make as your first, as all of them serves a different purpose. (naked/cruiser/sport)
          3. KTM Duke 200/390 would be the best one fitting in your budget as well a best for being a primary one.
          4. If you wish to have a cruiser then bajaj Avenger is a nice option.
          5. Height factor (In case of RC 390) is not something to worry a lot. Seat height of RC is a bit more but one will get use to of it soon.
          6. Best way to choose a first MCY is make a list of prospective motorcycles fitting your needs, go to the showroom and take test ride of each and then the motorcycle for you will itself speak aloud, (that only you can hear ) I am the one for you..!!

          All the very best..!! Ride safe. Always wear a Helmet.

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          • #6
            Re: Need help: Which bike?

            Mercury General Corporation (NYSE:MCY)

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            • #7
              Re: Need help: Which bike?

              Originally posted by AA15 View Post
              Hi Angad.. Buying your first MCY is one of the most amazing and exciting thing that happens in life and so it must be wise.
              Since it will going to be your first bike so it will be your primary one as well. There is no doubt that RC 390 is a great MCY but there are certain things you might need to consider:
              1. RC 390 is a sports bike intended to conquer the corners or to perform well on tracks but it will not be a comfortable vehicle to use on a day to day basis and/or city commuting because of the aggressive riding posture it offers.
              2. You should first decide which type of motorcycle you really want to make as your first, as all of them serves a different purpose. (naked/cruiser/sport)
              3. KTM Duke 200/390 would be the best one fitting in your budget as well a best for being a primary one.
              4. If you wish to have a cruiser then bajaj Avenger is a nice option.
              5. Height factor (In case of RC 390) is not something to worry a lot. Seat height of RC is a bit more but one will get use to of it soon.
              6. Best way to choose a first MCY is make a list of prospective motorcycles fitting your needs, go to the showroom and take test ride of each and then the motorcycle for you will itself speak aloud, (that only you can hear ) I am the one for you..!!

              All the very best..!! Ride safe. Always wear a Helmet.
              I tried out the height factor with other bikes. On an Apache RTR 180 and Pulsar 180, although I was able to reach the ground, I was unable to place my foot flat. However it was comfortable (manageble). Those are approximately 790-800 mm, so I'm not sure how much difference 2 cm can make. I'm really hoping it doesnt make any difference, as RC was a bike I've set my heart on.
              Agreed, the posture may be uncomfortable, but that I can see only when I try the bike, and make a decision.
              Thanks for the reply

              Comment


              • #8
                Re: Need help: Which bike?

                Originally posted by AngadV View Post
                so I'm not sure how much difference 2 cm can make. I'm really hoping it doesnt make any difference, as RC was a bike I've set my heart on.
                Agreed, the posture may be uncomfortable, but that I can see only when I try the bike, and make a decision.
                Thanks for the reply
                Hey
                If RC 390 is the one that speaks for you then you don't need to take much pain about the seat height: Riding a MCY skilfully does not need your feet to be planted on the ground; you toes would suffice. That would be normal after a period of time.
                Another good news for you is that RC comes with adjustable pre-load, Monoshock at the rear, which can be adjusted to decrease the seat by a short but significant height.

                All the best.. And don't forget to post the pics and review when you get your Beast..!

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                • #9
                  Re: Need help: Which bike?

                  Also the Slipper clutch...
                  R15S - Current
                  Honda Dio - Current
                  TNT 600i - Sold
                  Classic 500 - Sold
                  Pulsar 220 dtsi - Sold
                  Yamaha YBX125 - Sold

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                  • #10
                    Re: Need help: Which bike?

                    Originally posted by TheArcher84 View Post
                    Also the Slipper clutch...
                    Hello Archer..
                    Does RC 390 really have Slipper Clutch or it is just a rumor.. Do you have any evidence.?
                    I am Planning to book one next month, Waiting for new model to arrive with slipper clutch.
                    Thanks

                    Comment


                    • #11
                      Re: Need help: Which bike?

                      Hi Guys,

                      I am also planning to buy bike but i want cruiser one. My budget is 1.5 lacs. My height is 5.5 and I have shortlisted Bajaj Avenger over RE TB 350 only because of Avenger's Kerb weight is less than RE TB 350. Please suggest me which one should i buy? Also one more bike in mind is RE classic 350.

                      Comment


                      • #12
                        Re: Need help: Which bike?

                        Originally posted by bmhatre View Post
                        Hi Guys,

                        I am also planning to buy bike but i want cruiser one. My budget is 1.5 lacs. My height is 5.5 and I have shortlisted Bajaj Avenger over RE TB 350 only because of Avenger's Kerb weight is less than RE TB 350. Please suggest me which one should i buy? Also one more bike in mind is RE classic 350.
                        Benelli Keyway Blackster 250
                        DSK-Benelli TNT 250, TRE-K 1130 and Keeway Blackster

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                        • #13
                          Re: Need help: Which bike?

                          Could you tell me about the rear Monoshock thing? I've never heard of that. Could you just explain it a bit? I'll then be able to find out more on google :P
                          Thanks

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                          • #14
                            Re: Need help: Which bike?

                            Adjustable Monoshock allows to adjust the preload settings which looses or tightens the shock absorber between the swing arm and the frame which in turn results in the seat height adjustment.
                            Enjoy. And take a chill pill

                            Comment


                            • #15
                              Re: Need help: Which bike?

                              Originally posted by bmhatre View Post
                              Hi Guys,

                              I am also planning to buy bike but i want cruiser one. My budget is 1.5 lacs. My height is 5.5 and I have shortlisted Bajaj Avenger over RE TB 350 only because of Avenger's Kerb weight is less than RE TB 350. Please suggest me which one should i buy? Also one more bike in mind is RE classic 350.

                              choosing one bike over other just on the basis of weight is not a good thing brother.
                              You can easily get used to the weight of the bike in a few days.
                              The important thing is what do you want in a bike. what are your needs, your budget, your uses(daily commutes or long tours).
                              think about all these factors before choosing a bike.


                              Out of the 3 options - Go for RE if you want a thumper, and be prepared to take care of it like a RE. You will have slight niggles and hassles but if your heart is set on a RE, nothing else will do.

                              GO for the avenger, if you want a cruiser styled bike, with a decent engine. bajaj bikes are Ok. Not too good not too bad. They get the job done.

                              Take test rides of all the shortlisted bikes and then decide.
                              I would like to thank my legs for supporting me, my arms for being always by my side and my fingers; I could always count on them.

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