The new trend for Indian bikers in today’s generation is the 500 cc segment. They love zippy drive, pocket-friendly, and fuel efficient. I remember back in 2000 we had multiple options in the 250 cc segment. How remarkable it is to zip through traffic and all those bumps and potholes especially puddles in the rainy season.
Naked bikes are the new style for beginner’s and novice bikers who doesn’t want the hassle of maintenance and spare parts rarity. We have listed the top 5 naked bikes which are swinging in the Indian market.
- Royal Enfield Hunter 350
Royal Enfield team has introduced a couple of bikes under the 400 CC segment. Do not underestimate their looks as they seem very nimble in plain sight, however, they pack a punch. Their latest offering is “Hunter”. A new naked bike from the team which has a refreshing look not at all similar to their siblings and a new 400 CC engine give this puppy a serious look.
Let us take a look at the specs
Max power: 20.4 bhp @6100 rpm
Max torque: 27nm@4000 rpm
Mileage: 25 – 35kmpl
No of cylinders: 1
It comes with dual-channel ABS, a Navigation system, a new instrument cluster with advanced features, dual trip, a digital tachometer, a fuel gauge, and more.
It lacks a dual-clutch which improves the riding experience and fuel efficiency, The Riding quality is really good and the exhaust note has a base and is different from Classic and Himalayan.
2. Harley Davidson 400x
It is a surprise for all Harley lovers and a dream come true to see them offering a 440 cc bike in India. Harley Davidson along with the partnership with Hero has designed a new engine and a bold look. Do not judge the bike by its hero badge and looks, Harley and Hero has done a decent job in designing this bike.
440x gets its badge from a 440 cc engine which is very smooth like butter. Power wise it may disappoint you.
Max speed: 129 kmph
0-100 in 12 seconds.
Max power: 27.37bhp @6000 rpm
Max torque: 38nm @4000 rpm
3. Triumph 400
Triumph latest launch speed 400 shares its stable with its rival siblings Dominor 400 and KTM 390. Research and development team had done a decent job keeping the design simple and the only difference which keeps it different from its siblings is the chain drive placement to the left which means it has got all new gearbox.
Triumph and Bajaj has done a wonderful job with a keen eye to attention to the details. Nuts, bolts and joints look very premium and it does justice to the price tag.
Max power: 40bhp@8000 rpm
Max Torque: 37.5 nm@6500 rpm
It gets water cooled engine with four valve DOHC, dual channel ABS, all new instrumental cluster with Navigation system.
4. Dominor 400
Indian stallion from the makers or KTM and Triumph in India, Bajaj has a record for supplying performance bikes in Indian market. Dominor does live up to the expectations of every Indian.
I remember during the launch of pulsar 220 FI, it was an instant hit, everything about the bike is remarkable. Dominor does follow its siblings footsteps in providing power and looks to its owner.
Sharing the engine with KTMs Bajaj had done a wonderful job in refining the engine and giving the bold looks. Slipper clutch, triple spark plug, dual valve, dual channel ABS, projector lamps and all new instrumental cluster. It also gets secondary cluster on fuel tank which enhances its looks.
Max torque: 35nm @ 6500 rpm
Max power: 40bph @8800 rpm
5. KTM Duke 390
Ktm has the track record of winning 5 dakkar rally championships. Its hard to tell that KTMs are reliable and safe motor cycle in Indian roads given the amount of accidents that happened in India. They are quick and snappy.
KTM 390 sometimes feels over powered by its grunt and looks. It comes will all new instrumental cluster with ips display, however it lacks navigation feature, it comes with slipper clutch, dual channel ABS, projector headlamps and wide tyers for extra grip. You can enjoy the zippy drive however one downside of its super power engine is heat.
It is difficult to ride in city roads with excess heat pumping on your legs, its advisable to wear the gear at all times while riding. The most powerful bike in the list is KTM and my personal favourite.
Max torque: 37nm @7000 rpm
Max power: 43.5 bhp @9000 rpm
Remarkable review