Two-wheelers are an extremely popular mode of transport all over India. From tier-one cities to smaller towns, most Indians find bikes the most convenient mode of transport. Given the plethora of options available, buying a new bike in the Indian market requires great consideration and thought. A lot of people in our country also like to go on long tours on their motorbikes. There’s also a gradual increase in the population who have an interest in sports bikes.
The common points of consideration while purchasing a new bike are – type of bike, user reviews, insurance coverage, bike customisation, technical specifications, comfort, gear system, brand reputation, budget, RTO costs, longevity, fuel efficiency, and maintenance costs. By reviewing all of these, you can make an informed decision and choose the right bike for you. In this blog, we’ll go over these major points to help you out.
Type of Bike
The type of bike you go for will primarily depend on your usage of the bike. Are you planning for long touring rides? Then, a cruiser is the option for you. If you want the bike for day-to-day usage for commuting within city limits, a vehicle with good mileage will be the right option. However, if you are a biking enthusiast who would like to take your bike outside the city once in a while, then a sports bike will probably be better suited. Off-road or terrain bikes are the right fit for riders who want to travel across the country and often take the road less taken.
User Reviews
With the large number of people using bikes in our country and the widespread reach of the internet, user reviews are very easy to access. It’s advisable to go through these to ensure the bike you are shortlisting does not have any known shortcomings.
Budget
The most crucial factor while considering a bike purchase is your budget. It will narrow down and eliminate several models. It is essential to pre-decide how much you are willing to shell out, as well as the down payment and EMI.
RTO Costs
Different cities have different levies on the Regional Transport Office costs while registering a new vehicle. It is important to consider these costs in order to obtain all mandatory registrations. For example, the road tax in Maharashtra is around 7-9% of the bike’s ex-showroom price, while in Delhi, it is about 4-6%. Ensure you factor in these costs while budgeting for your new bike.
Insurance Cost
In India, insurance is mandatory for all vehicles. If caught without valid insurance, a hefty fine can be imposed by the traffic police. The cost of insurance is determined by the bike’s usage, make and model, and engine capacity. Make sure a yearly insurance premium is calculated in your budget while zeroing in on a new bike.
Resale Value
If you are planning to upgrade the bike in a few years’ time and do not intend on holding onto it for the machine’s lifetime, then considering the resale value also matters. A bike is a depreciating asset, and the degree of depreciation is determined by the value of the bike, the brand or maker, and the condition in which it has been kept or used. Ensure you pay attention to these factors as well.
Fuel Efficiency
Rising fuel costs are another crucial factor determining your choice. High mileage means less fuel costs, making the bike easier on your pocket. For a day-to-day commute, it is advisable to go for a lower cc bike with higher mileage.
Engine Capacity and Power
Bikes in the 100cc to 125cc category are ideal for city commutes and budget-conscious riders. They cost less to maintain and save a lot of money on fuel, with a mileage of 70-80 km/l. Bikes in the next category – 150cc to 200cc – provide a good combination of power and mileage for occasional long trips. These give an average of around 40 km/l. Bikes designed for power and touring fall into the 200cc and above category. Whether you want to use the bike for long rides, racing, stunting or offroading, a vehicle around 650cc is ideal, which will give you a mileage of 20-25 km/l.
Ergonomics
Factors such as seat height, handlebar position, and overall ergonomics play a significant role in choosing your bike. All these components need to be suited to your height and build, as awkward riding positions can lead to long-term aches and pains. One way to ensure you pick a bike that fits is to test-ride it before you confirm your booking.
Brand Reputation and Service
Before making a decision, it is important to research the brand’s reputation for reliability, service quality, and spare parts availability. India is a huge country with many small towns and villages still not developed. Therefore, if you are choosing a bike for long rides, ensure that its service network is well-spread throughout the country.
Maintenance Costs and Availability
Another important factor in conjunction with the above is the cost of servicing your bike periodically. In order to extend the longevity of the bike, it is essential to keep it serviced and in top condition. The cost of servicing differs from brand to brand; for example, a Royal Enfield’s regular service charges will be considerably higher than that of a Bajaj. The availability of service centres also matters, as highlighted in the above section, as well as the ease of availability and cost of spare parts.
Technology and Features
Modern bikes have a lot of features that add to their safety, comfort, and performance. Key features include:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): Improves braking safety by preventing wheel lock-up.
LED Lighting: Provides better visibility and aesthetics.
Digital Instrument Cluster: Offers a modern look and displays comprehensive information.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Available in bikes like the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V, providing features like navigation and call alerts.
Environmental Impact
With rising environmental awareness and concern for our air quality, a bike with lower emissions will be a more considerate choice. In India, the Bharat Stage (BS) emission standards monitor the pollutants released by vehicles. The latest BS standard is the BS6. Therefore, when going for a new bike, it is advisable to ensure it is a BS6-compliant model.
