If I had to pick one word to describe the Goa-Mumbai coastal route in the monsoons, it would be âgreenâ. Glorious weather at this time of the year. Its hard to keep your eyes on the road.
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[Photo Feature]: Riding The Goa-Mumbai Coastal Route
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Hi guys this is Anandhu PM, I am 18 from Trivandrum Kerala.
I always wanted to join the xBhp, thanking everyone for taking me in the form. And really proud to be a xBhp member.
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Hello everyone.
I am Jayant kumar jha.I am new here.I love riding & have done many short trips from kochi to Calicut (200kms) when I was a student.I ride a Pulsar 180dtsi.I am excited to be here & I am looking forward to knowing you all.
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Sr. Harjeet singh
Hello xbhp team im a tvs apache rider
Im all update for riding and bikes tips also connect xbhp team
Im all update for riding and bikes tips also connect xbhp team
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Tvs apache rtr 160 best tyre
Hello frnds ,which tyre best for tvs apache 160 same brand mrf
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Hi Xbhpians
Hi this is Antony Francis from Chennai.
I am an B.Tech.Mechanical engineer.
I currently own a DUKE 390 2017 .
I'm a passionate rider.
I am an B.Tech.Mechanical engineer.
I currently own a DUKE 390 2017 .
I'm a passionate rider.
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Metzeler M7RR Tyres - For Triumph Street Triple
Hi All,
I have been using Metzeler M7RR tyres for my Triumph Street Triple (both front and rear changed at same time in March-2017). Have used them for about 4500 km so far and these are really good tyres.
Bought these from Metro Tyres (Jagtap Dairy Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune - 411027). Price at that time was Rs 23500/- for the set (fitting was not included as I did that in the Triumph Service Centre).
Compared to Stock Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa Tyres that my bike originally came with, below are important points:
Positive - Almost same level of grip, much lower price (Pirellis could cost anything from Rs 32000 to 39000), similar or a bit more life-span (10000-12000 km compared to 8000-10000 km for Pirelli), good wet grip also which is a bit better than stock tyres. In fact I have done more aggressive riding on these tyres than original ones and they give me strong confidence to lean into corners.
Negative - When going for track usage, people have reported that this has lesser grip than Pirelli. Also, these tyres behave little eagerly when leaning into corner compared to stock tyres. For some people it is good but some people may get surprised due to this tendency and can make mistakes during aggressive cornering.
These have slightly more warm up time than Pirelli - but in 5-15 minutes depending on season, they get pretty well warmed up after which they perform great (Pirellis almost always warmed up in 5 minutes or so)
Hope this helps.
I have been using Metzeler M7RR tyres for my Triumph Street Triple (both front and rear changed at same time in March-2017). Have used them for about 4500 km so far and these are really good tyres.
Bought these from Metro Tyres (Jagtap Dairy Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune - 411027). Price at that time was Rs 23500/- for the set (fitting was not included as I did that in the Triumph Service Centre).
Compared to Stock Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa Tyres that my bike originally came with, below are important points:
Positive - Almost same level of grip, much lower price (Pirellis could cost anything from Rs 32000 to 39000), similar or a bit more life-span (10000-12000 km compared to 8000-10000 km for Pirelli), good wet grip also which is a bit better than stock tyres. In fact I have done more aggressive riding on these tyres than original ones and they give me strong confidence to lean into corners.
Negative - When going for track usage, people have reported that this has lesser grip than Pirelli. Also, these tyres behave little eagerly when leaning into corner compared to stock tyres. For some people it is good but some people may get surprised due to this tendency and can make mistakes during aggressive cornering.
These have slightly more warm up time than Pirelli - but in 5-15 minutes depending on season, they get pretty well warmed up after which they perform great (Pirellis almost always warmed up in 5 minutes or so)
Hope this helps.
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Help me out to choose my first bike
Hi guys,
Greetings!!!!
This is Ram, age 26.....
As most of the men I'm also very passionate about bikes, but from past 4,5 years i don't have enough money to own it.. now I'm ready with all my hard earned money, but choosing one from the available options is creating chaos in my mind.
So I'm posting here all my requirements and options please help me out to choose my bike or just give me some suggestions....
Requirements and purpose:
1.My first and foremost purpose is daily commute to office around 25km in city traffic. And occasionally small trips on weekends with pillion..
2. Decent mileage (35 to 40kmpl is fine)
3.good looking and decent performance.
4.pillion comfort for ladies who sits on one side (this is mandatory )
5. Budget 1lakh to 1.5lakh.
6.bike type (any type naked/sporty )
7.durability, i dont change bike frequently , if it buy one it will be with me for the next 4,5 years atleast..
Options that i considered:
Ns 200 :
Haven't done the test ride but seen the bike in showroom everything is fine.. if any NS owners are there please tell me the pillion comfort and Bajaj quality issues.
FZ 25:
I read in some ownership threads this is one of the best bike in that segment but poor head lights and hard gear shifts.
RE 350:
Ever green model but very old technology, no rear disk, no alloy wheels, no tubeless tires, and heavy vibes.
These are the bikes and their pros and cons in my mind, please correct if I'm wrong in regards to cons...
So guys please suggest me a bike from the list or any other bike...
I decided to buy bike with the savings of 2 years so worring a little to finalize one , i know every bike has its own pros and cons... but Suggest me the one which can be maintained easily ...
Thanks in advance......
Greetings!!!!
This is Ram, age 26.....
As most of the men I'm also very passionate about bikes, but from past 4,5 years i don't have enough money to own it.. now I'm ready with all my hard earned money, but choosing one from the available options is creating chaos in my mind.
So I'm posting here all my requirements and options please help me out to choose my bike or just give me some suggestions....
Requirements and purpose:
1.My first and foremost purpose is daily commute to office around 25km in city traffic. And occasionally small trips on weekends with pillion..
2. Decent mileage (35 to 40kmpl is fine)
3.good looking and decent performance.
4.pillion comfort for ladies who sits on one side (this is mandatory )
5. Budget 1lakh to 1.5lakh.
6.bike type (any type naked/sporty )
7.durability, i dont change bike frequently , if it buy one it will be with me for the next 4,5 years atleast..
Options that i considered:
Ns 200 :
Haven't done the test ride but seen the bike in showroom everything is fine.. if any NS owners are there please tell me the pillion comfort and Bajaj quality issues.
FZ 25:
I read in some ownership threads this is one of the best bike in that segment but poor head lights and hard gear shifts.
RE 350:
Ever green model but very old technology, no rear disk, no alloy wheels, no tubeless tires, and heavy vibes.
These are the bikes and their pros and cons in my mind, please correct if I'm wrong in regards to cons...
So guys please suggest me a bike from the list or any other bike...
I decided to buy bike with the savings of 2 years so worring a little to finalize one , i know every bike has its own pros and cons... but Suggest me the one which can be maintained easily ...
Thanks in advance......
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Newbie in the group
Hi Mates,
I have been riding for last 7 years at different parts of the country. Recently shifted to Mumbai and joined this group. Though not registered, but I was omnipresent in the group. I own Honda Unicorn 150 - 7 years old and Avenger 220 Cruise (Newly born)
Every long weekend, I prefer exploring nearby places. Also go for planned long rides. Had my Manali - Tso Moriri - Leh - Pangong - Leh - Khardungla - Leh checked in the year 2015.
For this year I have planned Mumbai to Kanyakumari via NH66 - Like minded riders are welcome to join
Will look forward for riding with xBHPians.
Request someone to guide me with, how to get the stickers for both my bikes
Regards,
Swayambhar
I have been riding for last 7 years at different parts of the country. Recently shifted to Mumbai and joined this group. Though not registered, but I was omnipresent in the group. I own Honda Unicorn 150 - 7 years old and Avenger 220 Cruise (Newly born)
Every long weekend, I prefer exploring nearby places. Also go for planned long rides. Had my Manali - Tso Moriri - Leh - Pangong - Leh - Khardungla - Leh checked in the year 2015.
For this year I have planned Mumbai to Kanyakumari via NH66 - Like minded riders are welcome to join
Will look forward for riding with xBHPians.
Request someone to guide me with, how to get the stickers for both my bikes
Regards,
Swayambhar
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[Photo Feature]: South India Interstate G2G 2017 | Thekkady (KL) | 100+ Riders
The 8th Year of ISG2G (Interstate G2G) Rides in South of India
Thekkady | KL
100+ Riders from KA | KL | TN
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Image courtsey @The Monk
Thekkady | KL
100+ Riders from KA | KL | TN
Image courtsey @The Monk
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APACHE RTR 160 FI not starting - Fuel pump not working
Hello All,
I have a RTR 160 FI Bought it in 2009 andhas run only 30K Kms so far. I had to keep the bike unused as i was away for 6 months and when i returned the bike refused to start. ofcourse initial thing was battery dead i got a new battery immediately. All electricals light up fine. But i noticed there is no usual sound from the fuel pump. and the bike refused to start both self start and kick. I could sense that the fuel pump was not working. I took it to a service center nearby and now after 20 days they diagnoised the same thing that the fuel pump is dead. (they also said that the petrol had become thick ). and they claim he part is no more available and that the might never get that part at all.... I am left stranded :( i don't know what to do now . Can someone please guide me what can be done?
I have a RTR 160 FI Bought it in 2009 andhas run only 30K Kms so far. I had to keep the bike unused as i was away for 6 months and when i returned the bike refused to start. ofcourse initial thing was battery dead i got a new battery immediately. All electricals light up fine. But i noticed there is no usual sound from the fuel pump. and the bike refused to start both self start and kick. I could sense that the fuel pump was not working. I took it to a service center nearby and now after 20 days they diagnoised the same thing that the fuel pump is dead. (they also said that the petrol had become thick ). and they claim he part is no more available and that the might never get that part at all.... I am left stranded :( i don't know what to do now . Can someone please guide me what can be done?
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[Photo Feature]: Hi guys ...I am Suryakiran Dey...from newtowm,asansol
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[Photo Feature]: Lucknow Mussorie Lucknow
1900 kms in 4 days. A rather dangerous thing, driving in the monsoons with wind speeds that move your bike sideways. Riding on a hill when a cloud surrounds it is rather a dangerous thing. But then, what fun is a calm and pleasant ride. Presenting a solo rider Rehaan Ahmed(1 bike, 1 car) to mussorie via delhi in drenching rain. One of our younger and rather aggressive Rider. We would like to congratulate him on coming back safely after his first actual solo ride, keeping in mind that he Rode 300kms straight in drenching rain. We promote safe riding and never pushing your limits when you're alone. Always understand the conditions you're going to tackle when preparing for a ride, always have a power bank as anything may happen when you're riding solo and we all are aware what fun it is to ride on the hills. Ride safe. Ride responsibly. Peace â®ï¸![]()
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Hello Bros!
Hello, lovely people! My name is Abhishek. I'm 22 and from Mumbai.
I am a musician and a law student and just recently bought my first bike - KTM Duke 390 and it's been a blast ever since. I've always been fascinated by bikes and riding has given me a special kind of freedom where I forget about everything else and just go with the flow.
I'm new to bikes and in the near future, I want to share my experience from being a complete newbie to wherever the journey takes me.
That's why I'm here because what better place to share your journey than the brotherhood here, right? I will be posting about my experience with my Duke 390 which I've named Lilith and about everything that I've felt before buying a bike and how it actually feels for a beginner to ride such a motorcycle and so on.
I'm hoping to learn as much as I can in here that will help me not only become a better ride but always give me the experience and overall knowledge.
Thanks!
I am a musician and a law student and just recently bought my first bike - KTM Duke 390 and it's been a blast ever since. I've always been fascinated by bikes and riding has given me a special kind of freedom where I forget about everything else and just go with the flow.
I'm new to bikes and in the near future, I want to share my experience from being a complete newbie to wherever the journey takes me.
That's why I'm here because what better place to share your journey than the brotherhood here, right? I will be posting about my experience with my Duke 390 which I've named Lilith and about everything that I've felt before buying a bike and how it actually feels for a beginner to ride such a motorcycle and so on.
I'm hoping to learn as much as I can in here that will help me not only become a better ride but always give me the experience and overall knowledge.
Thanks!
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Hi guys ...I am Suryakiran Dey...from newtowm,asansol
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Hello there people
My name is Sachin Sheelavant and I am currently final year student of B.E Civil Engineering but I am passionate about riding. I just got my Duke 250 2017 from Pune (KTM Warje)
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Time for an upgrade!
Hi , I am looking for a upgrade for my bike, (Currently riding a Honda Shine since past 9 years) and i am confused about options.
Let em start by giving my specifics here :
Budget : Around 1,20,000. (can stretch for Dominar....but thats where the confusion starts!)
Riding style: Easy going
Age: wrong side of 20's
Others: Need a calm and mature machine for long rides.
Aimed Primarily for city rides - Clocking on an average 100KMS per day on weekends and minimal(10 kms odd at max) on weekday but it should do some mild Touring -I have been on borrowed bikes to various places nearby viz Bangalore , Chattisgarh etc .I would like to tour extensively on the machine , at least one ride a month >500 KMS
So here is the dilema,
I was straight up waiting for December to wrap up one of my loans and then go for Dominar with a fresh loan but my father's bike gave up and i have to get a new one now.
Current financials are , well, lets say like any IT guy's , a bit messed but otherwise comfortable for an EMI of like 5000-10000. I would love to wrap the loan up in a year as well. (that limits the bike prices in about 1,00,000 -1,20,000 range) (i can give 30-40K downpayment i presume)
That brings us to the predicament, with the budget set the only bikes that qualify now are (Under 120000 budget, engine capacity of 200-CC or greater and not a big fan of NS/AS.
1) Bajaj Avenger 200 (Cruise/Street ) --
Things i like:
1)This will come at 1,05,000 -1,10,000 .Leaving a bit of space for a cool lid.
2)The general dilemma is between cruise and street which i think i will eventually take the street.
3) Saw these babies manage khardungla easily last year (I was on a classic and had to borrow fuel from a bunch of these guys who were riding from Bangalore)
4)The new colors and designs are really mature
5)Feel like god rides sound really promising!
6)Can accommodate most of the luggage with bags at back.
Things that i am concerned
1)Its a Bajaj, Albeit service and engine horror stories ?
2)The engine, (i like if it aint messed up dont fix it but isnt this engine) ,isnt it like too old?
3)No FI/ABS
4)Handling, is the front end that bad as the people say ?
Misc:
Have anyone tried mounting that epic windshield on a street ?
2) TVS Apache 200
Things i like:
1) Its an Apache
2) Pirelli and FI comes up at 1,20,000 , hits the budget but looks worth it
3) Looks a bit more young (i am afraid the avenger will make me look older than i am , i am 26.5 :P)
4) New design, new Engine, new bike
Things that i am weary about
1) New design, new Engine, new bike -New problems ?
2) Service ...heard TVS ain't great about this
3)Availability : The TVS aint readily available
Bikes i didnt like/Negated : FZ25 (No Abs, overpriced ) , Himalayan (are we even getting these ? ) , Dominar (This is where my heart was set, but with an on road of 1,74,000 for the FI verison , doesnt look like its gonna happen , also 820MM height ?! ...i am just 5'3" , double footing would be a challenge and having ridden the crappy raods, i would love to have my feet planted when required)
Let em start by giving my specifics here :
Budget : Around 1,20,000. (can stretch for Dominar....but thats where the confusion starts!)
Riding style: Easy going
Age: wrong side of 20's
Others: Need a calm and mature machine for long rides.
Aimed Primarily for city rides - Clocking on an average 100KMS per day on weekends and minimal(10 kms odd at max) on weekday but it should do some mild Touring -I have been on borrowed bikes to various places nearby viz Bangalore , Chattisgarh etc .I would like to tour extensively on the machine , at least one ride a month >500 KMS
So here is the dilema,
I was straight up waiting for December to wrap up one of my loans and then go for Dominar with a fresh loan but my father's bike gave up and i have to get a new one now.
Current financials are , well, lets say like any IT guy's , a bit messed but otherwise comfortable for an EMI of like 5000-10000. I would love to wrap the loan up in a year as well. (that limits the bike prices in about 1,00,000 -1,20,000 range) (i can give 30-40K downpayment i presume)
That brings us to the predicament, with the budget set the only bikes that qualify now are (Under 120000 budget, engine capacity of 200-CC or greater and not a big fan of NS/AS.
1) Bajaj Avenger 200 (Cruise/Street ) --
Things i like:
1)This will come at 1,05,000 -1,10,000 .Leaving a bit of space for a cool lid.
2)The general dilemma is between cruise and street which i think i will eventually take the street.
3) Saw these babies manage khardungla easily last year (I was on a classic and had to borrow fuel from a bunch of these guys who were riding from Bangalore)
4)The new colors and designs are really mature
5)Feel like god rides sound really promising!
6)Can accommodate most of the luggage with bags at back.
Things that i am concerned
1)Its a Bajaj, Albeit service and engine horror stories ?
2)The engine, (i like if it aint messed up dont fix it but isnt this engine) ,isnt it like too old?
3)No FI/ABS
4)Handling, is the front end that bad as the people say ?
Misc:
Have anyone tried mounting that epic windshield on a street ?
2) TVS Apache 200
Things i like:
1) Its an Apache
2) Pirelli and FI comes up at 1,20,000 , hits the budget but looks worth it
3) Looks a bit more young (i am afraid the avenger will make me look older than i am , i am 26.5 :P)
4) New design, new Engine, new bike
Things that i am weary about
1) New design, new Engine, new bike -New problems ?
2) Service ...heard TVS ain't great about this
3)Availability : The TVS aint readily available
Bikes i didnt like/Negated : FZ25 (No Abs, overpriced ) , Himalayan (are we even getting these ? ) , Dominar (This is where my heart was set, but with an on road of 1,74,000 for the FI verison , doesnt look like its gonna happen , also 820MM height ?! ...i am just 5'3" , double footing would be a challenge and having ridden the crappy raods, i would love to have my feet planted when required)
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My Dream Bike and Am I Ready For my Ride
Hi All,
Just a short intro about me. I am just a budding automotive enthusiast, Mech Techy and working as a Automotive Exterior Designer. I am 30 and Married for a year now. My Biking Experience is 10 years, mostly a office commuter and graduated from a 100cc commuter to a 200cc entry level performance bike about a year ago. My Bike Riding Experience till now has been 95% City riding mostly through the high Traffic Zones of Bangalore for the office commute and only recently started short touring with my RTR 200. So Basically i am a NewBie to the world of Biking.
My Desperate Plan of a Big Bike.
As a common Bikers wishlist my dream is to own a Big Bike , to me a Big Bike is anything at and above the Middle Weight Category. I had this wish right from my schooling during when the superbikes or the Big Bikes were a rarity to even find them in our country, I had planned such a way that when i start earning i will save my complete monthly salaries for 3-4 years and buy a Big Bike. Despite this being my dream i didn't really make efforts for it to be reality, I started to learn riding only when i was in my 2nd Year Engineering. My Late start at riding was because of my ridiculous thought of learn to ride with your own bike and don't mess with others bike. That same thought Led me to only use my 100cc Platina, even when my friends and cousins offered their bikes to ride, I turned them down fearing i might spoil their lovely machines. The year 2014, i just returned from a short Germany assignment with my eyes and heart filled with the Feast of super bikes and exotic bikes running across autobahns. That is when i started to think of upgrading my bike to a performance bike, but with other ordeals to run and my work keeping me busy, I had to postpone my bike plans for some more time. By 2015 end i had planned to upgrade to 390 duke which would satiate my thirst of big bike to a level and also i wouldn't have to break the bank for it. I planned to take loan for the purchase and was happily looking forward to pitch this plan to my parents and was certain that they would accept my proposal. Here is where the Turn of Events started, my parents as every other parent were against this plan of mine and to turn things more difficult for my Bike plans, they pitched in with their plan of chaining me for my entire life with the bonds of family, Marriage. Their argument was to not start my married life with a loan over my head and i had to oblige. Well fate had other plans for me as well, Jan 2016 i was sent to Sweden for a short assignment and at the same time right before my travel i was engaged. A blessing in disguise it may be, i planned this time to save money with the Sweden Travel and purchase a smaller cc vehicle by not taking a loan thereby i could successfully up ease my parents desire of getting me married and also approving me of my first ever performance bike the RTR 200.
The Bug Bite.
The Brand new Bike parked at my house, I was happy and proud of my new Possession. A few months prior to my purchase, i started to get trained for the upgrade by watching videos and reading some training articles and reviews to get accustomed for the new ride, my small fears were if i can handle the acceleration, the power, will i be able to maneuver the bike around in the Traffic, can i use it for daily commute and can i not get intimidated with the co users of the road. These fears were basically because of my inexperience on other bikes and one and only extended usage of my commuter. But when i first laid my hands on the Ride and took for a spin, my fears were subdued and i knew i can handle it. Just a month after my Purchase I heard my cousin had purchased a Z800 and to be honest i became a little envied by it. A few weeks later he had been to our house with his Z800 and i was just awestruck with the bike and every second that passed i was urged to touch it. Like small kids who pesteres elders with the same annoying questions, i quizzed and quizzed about the bike to my cousin almost making him annoyed during his visit. Yet again after a few weeks he visited our house with his bike, i was again trembling for the touch of the bike and a constant battle between my heart and mind seeing the beauty, i blurted out my interest of taking the ride of the world class beauty. To my surprise my cousin agreed immediately and handed over the keys for a short spin, Trembling top to bottom from the inside, big grin plastered to my face and in a distant voice my cousin was instructing on the bike and i thumbed the ignition. The Bike roared to life with a deep grunt, my worst fears almost immediately vanished, my heart and mind in complete sync i moved the bike like was inching towards heaven, the most memorable bike riding moment had arrived and the big bike bug had stung fair and square on me.
After affects of the Bug bite.
Right after the bike ride, I promised myself of a cure to the sting, i fixated on the next plans for the Big Bike. I started to fill the idea of my next bike to my better half and workflow for the target big bike. My partial thought into buying RTR 200 was it was like a gateway to bigger capacity bikes. Buying a bike for me is to use it to its full potential and to test its full potential to me and as many would agree is touring. Quite naturally big bikes are primarily used for touring rides and my idea was to fit into the bill perfectly. I started to go on short stints of 100kms or above rides with my wife as pillion around Bangalore though i couldn't go on for a ride every weekend, i am trying to take at least one such ride in a month. Coming to the next aspect of big bikes is the finances to arrange for it and definitely arranging for it takes years of savings plus the thought of big interest loans is a lot to ponder with. My basic idea is to save the money for the DP for around 2 years, meanwhile keep using my pocket performer warm and ready to chug for big rides and exercising my mind to take more big rides and prepares myself for the big bikes.
Am I ready for the Ride.
Last one year since I got My RTR, I am using it for my office commute daily and occasionally for a 100 to 200 kms long rides. From the time of my pre-purchase to date i am looking into honing my riding skills and also looking into the self maintenance of the bike and honestly I am not able to maintain my bike in Top Notch condition, blame it on my daily usage to office, cleaning it everyday is not possible or blame it on my laziness to not clean them during the weekends. I know this cannot be the same with the dream bike as i am supposed to keep it in top notch condition for all my rides and also its the only way you can avoid yourself paying all earnings for the maintenance. Seeing the forums on user experience and the amount of time, money and dedication spent by some bikers on their bike is simply amazing , at the same time if i compare my level of competence on such matters makes me think twice on my decision. Apart from the maintenance chores for the bike, the finances for the big bike is another big thing to think about, it sounds simple to plan with the 2yrs of saving on DP of the bike and the next 3yrs or more on emi, planning all this with the current salary i draw and current price structure of the bikes. But if I think of the price of the bike which may increase in the next years and the current situation as i am in with out kids, this seems to be the right time for my dream to realize. Keeping these two factors aside I have another thing to think about , In a span of around 4 months i met with two accidents on my RTR and both occasions it was panic breaking and poor maneuverability resulting in breaking my right footrest bracket on both occasions sliding through the tarmac for some meters, thank god i was saved both the times with just minor bruises as i was geared up both the times. But these all factor rings the bell and puts me to the question AM I READY FOR THE RIDE. Invariably I have to up my skill set for the next Big Ride, i cannot afford to lose some more years into planning as the Bike rates will increase as the years pass by and financial and social status will definitely pull me to other investments (Buying a House or Education and other Fees for Kids).
Here is Enough of ranting by a middle class Biker. But if you have gone thru this much of my ranting, please pitch in your suggestions in helping me out to decide on whether to wait some more years for the Big bike purchase or shall i take up the risk buy the big bike now(within a Year). Or otherwise i upgrade my current ride to 300cc category and later on if things are right may be a span of 10 years from now get the Big one I desire. Based on the replies on this i might soon post on what bike section.
Anyways my budget is 6 to 7 lakhs OTR , Bikes in consideration is ADV Touring Bikes,
Benelli TRK 502 upcoming , (reviews as of now is ok ok)
Z650(naked but probably can setup for touring)
Ninja 650(Sports Tourer same as above but a better bet)
Versys 650 over my budget but desire to have
Benelli 600GT (Not sure )
Just a short intro about me. I am just a budding automotive enthusiast, Mech Techy and working as a Automotive Exterior Designer. I am 30 and Married for a year now. My Biking Experience is 10 years, mostly a office commuter and graduated from a 100cc commuter to a 200cc entry level performance bike about a year ago. My Bike Riding Experience till now has been 95% City riding mostly through the high Traffic Zones of Bangalore for the office commute and only recently started short touring with my RTR 200. So Basically i am a NewBie to the world of Biking.
My Desperate Plan of a Big Bike.
As a common Bikers wishlist my dream is to own a Big Bike , to me a Big Bike is anything at and above the Middle Weight Category. I had this wish right from my schooling during when the superbikes or the Big Bikes were a rarity to even find them in our country, I had planned such a way that when i start earning i will save my complete monthly salaries for 3-4 years and buy a Big Bike. Despite this being my dream i didn't really make efforts for it to be reality, I started to learn riding only when i was in my 2nd Year Engineering. My Late start at riding was because of my ridiculous thought of learn to ride with your own bike and don't mess with others bike. That same thought Led me to only use my 100cc Platina, even when my friends and cousins offered their bikes to ride, I turned them down fearing i might spoil their lovely machines. The year 2014, i just returned from a short Germany assignment with my eyes and heart filled with the Feast of super bikes and exotic bikes running across autobahns. That is when i started to think of upgrading my bike to a performance bike, but with other ordeals to run and my work keeping me busy, I had to postpone my bike plans for some more time. By 2015 end i had planned to upgrade to 390 duke which would satiate my thirst of big bike to a level and also i wouldn't have to break the bank for it. I planned to take loan for the purchase and was happily looking forward to pitch this plan to my parents and was certain that they would accept my proposal. Here is where the Turn of Events started, my parents as every other parent were against this plan of mine and to turn things more difficult for my Bike plans, they pitched in with their plan of chaining me for my entire life with the bonds of family, Marriage. Their argument was to not start my married life with a loan over my head and i had to oblige. Well fate had other plans for me as well, Jan 2016 i was sent to Sweden for a short assignment and at the same time right before my travel i was engaged. A blessing in disguise it may be, i planned this time to save money with the Sweden Travel and purchase a smaller cc vehicle by not taking a loan thereby i could successfully up ease my parents desire of getting me married and also approving me of my first ever performance bike the RTR 200.
The Bug Bite.
The Brand new Bike parked at my house, I was happy and proud of my new Possession. A few months prior to my purchase, i started to get trained for the upgrade by watching videos and reading some training articles and reviews to get accustomed for the new ride, my small fears were if i can handle the acceleration, the power, will i be able to maneuver the bike around in the Traffic, can i use it for daily commute and can i not get intimidated with the co users of the road. These fears were basically because of my inexperience on other bikes and one and only extended usage of my commuter. But when i first laid my hands on the Ride and took for a spin, my fears were subdued and i knew i can handle it. Just a month after my Purchase I heard my cousin had purchased a Z800 and to be honest i became a little envied by it. A few weeks later he had been to our house with his Z800 and i was just awestruck with the bike and every second that passed i was urged to touch it. Like small kids who pesteres elders with the same annoying questions, i quizzed and quizzed about the bike to my cousin almost making him annoyed during his visit. Yet again after a few weeks he visited our house with his bike, i was again trembling for the touch of the bike and a constant battle between my heart and mind seeing the beauty, i blurted out my interest of taking the ride of the world class beauty. To my surprise my cousin agreed immediately and handed over the keys for a short spin, Trembling top to bottom from the inside, big grin plastered to my face and in a distant voice my cousin was instructing on the bike and i thumbed the ignition. The Bike roared to life with a deep grunt, my worst fears almost immediately vanished, my heart and mind in complete sync i moved the bike like was inching towards heaven, the most memorable bike riding moment had arrived and the big bike bug had stung fair and square on me.
After affects of the Bug bite.
Right after the bike ride, I promised myself of a cure to the sting, i fixated on the next plans for the Big Bike. I started to fill the idea of my next bike to my better half and workflow for the target big bike. My partial thought into buying RTR 200 was it was like a gateway to bigger capacity bikes. Buying a bike for me is to use it to its full potential and to test its full potential to me and as many would agree is touring. Quite naturally big bikes are primarily used for touring rides and my idea was to fit into the bill perfectly. I started to go on short stints of 100kms or above rides with my wife as pillion around Bangalore though i couldn't go on for a ride every weekend, i am trying to take at least one such ride in a month. Coming to the next aspect of big bikes is the finances to arrange for it and definitely arranging for it takes years of savings plus the thought of big interest loans is a lot to ponder with. My basic idea is to save the money for the DP for around 2 years, meanwhile keep using my pocket performer warm and ready to chug for big rides and exercising my mind to take more big rides and prepares myself for the big bikes.
Am I ready for the Ride.
Last one year since I got My RTR, I am using it for my office commute daily and occasionally for a 100 to 200 kms long rides. From the time of my pre-purchase to date i am looking into honing my riding skills and also looking into the self maintenance of the bike and honestly I am not able to maintain my bike in Top Notch condition, blame it on my daily usage to office, cleaning it everyday is not possible or blame it on my laziness to not clean them during the weekends. I know this cannot be the same with the dream bike as i am supposed to keep it in top notch condition for all my rides and also its the only way you can avoid yourself paying all earnings for the maintenance. Seeing the forums on user experience and the amount of time, money and dedication spent by some bikers on their bike is simply amazing , at the same time if i compare my level of competence on such matters makes me think twice on my decision. Apart from the maintenance chores for the bike, the finances for the big bike is another big thing to think about, it sounds simple to plan with the 2yrs of saving on DP of the bike and the next 3yrs or more on emi, planning all this with the current salary i draw and current price structure of the bikes. But if I think of the price of the bike which may increase in the next years and the current situation as i am in with out kids, this seems to be the right time for my dream to realize. Keeping these two factors aside I have another thing to think about , In a span of around 4 months i met with two accidents on my RTR and both occasions it was panic breaking and poor maneuverability resulting in breaking my right footrest bracket on both occasions sliding through the tarmac for some meters, thank god i was saved both the times with just minor bruises as i was geared up both the times. But these all factor rings the bell and puts me to the question AM I READY FOR THE RIDE. Invariably I have to up my skill set for the next Big Ride, i cannot afford to lose some more years into planning as the Bike rates will increase as the years pass by and financial and social status will definitely pull me to other investments (Buying a House or Education and other Fees for Kids).
Here is Enough of ranting by a middle class Biker. But if you have gone thru this much of my ranting, please pitch in your suggestions in helping me out to decide on whether to wait some more years for the Big bike purchase or shall i take up the risk buy the big bike now(within a Year). Or otherwise i upgrade my current ride to 300cc category and later on if things are right may be a span of 10 years from now get the Big one I desire. Based on the replies on this i might soon post on what bike section.
Anyways my budget is 6 to 7 lakhs OTR , Bikes in consideration is ADV Touring Bikes,
Benelli TRK 502 upcoming , (reviews as of now is ok ok)
Z650(naked but probably can setup for touring)
Ninja 650(Sports Tourer same as above but a better bet)
Versys 650 over my budget but desire to have
Benelli 600GT (Not sure )
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The new TVS Apache RTR 160 spotted? Spy Pics!
Is this the new TVS Apache RTR 160?
An xBhpian spotted the new upcoming TVS Apache RTR 160 around the TVS manufacturing plant located in Hosur, Tamil Nadu.
The overall body panels and most of the parts are being shared with its bigger brother, the Apache RTR 200 4V. Whereas the important features highlighted in the RTR 200 4V was missing in the bike that was spotted. No specification details available for now.
By looking at the spy pics, comparing with RTR 200 4V, it's obvious that it is an oil cooled engine, no rear disk brake (disk brake might come as optional as old RTR 160 also had optional rear disc), no split seat, no clip on, silver colour side panel, and shod with 110/80-17 rear tyre which is smaller than the RTR200 4V with 130/70-17.
Though, the new RTR 160 gets good upgrades when compared to the old RTR 160,
1. Monoshock
2. Fully digital console
3. Oil cooled engine
4. Comfortable riding posture
The new RTR 160 will be a direct rival for the recently launched Bajaj Pulsar 160 NS and other 150 & 160 cc segment motorcycles.
Also, rumour suggests that the Apache 180 may get discontinued from the TVS lineup after the launch of this new RTR 160, which is expected by end of 2017.
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Photos: Sathish Murugachari
An xBhpian spotted the new upcoming TVS Apache RTR 160 around the TVS manufacturing plant located in Hosur, Tamil Nadu.
The overall body panels and most of the parts are being shared with its bigger brother, the Apache RTR 200 4V. Whereas the important features highlighted in the RTR 200 4V was missing in the bike that was spotted. No specification details available for now.
By looking at the spy pics, comparing with RTR 200 4V, it's obvious that it is an oil cooled engine, no rear disk brake (disk brake might come as optional as old RTR 160 also had optional rear disc), no split seat, no clip on, silver colour side panel, and shod with 110/80-17 rear tyre which is smaller than the RTR200 4V with 130/70-17.
Though, the new RTR 160 gets good upgrades when compared to the old RTR 160,
1. Monoshock
2. Fully digital console
3. Oil cooled engine
4. Comfortable riding posture
The new RTR 160 will be a direct rival for the recently launched Bajaj Pulsar 160 NS and other 150 & 160 cc segment motorcycles.
Also, rumour suggests that the Apache 180 may get discontinued from the TVS lineup after the launch of this new RTR 160, which is expected by end of 2017.
Photos: Sathish Murugachari
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Honda CB Unicorn Dazzler Tyre upgrade guide
I wish to upgrade tyres of my honda dazzler. What profile/size can fit to it without any problems? For both front and rear.
Basically I want wider tyres.
Basically I want wider tyres.
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