Honda CBR250R
The only fully faired bike in the list here also happens to be a great tourer. The 250 cc engine makes 26.15 hp, and the bike feels stable for highway speeds. Unlike others in the segment, it’s more touring-orientated, which certainly helps its case in everyday riding, too. Also given the longevity associated with Honda products, once added to the garage the CBR250R is only likely to go if you outgrow it or get bored with it. It also happens to be the only bike offered with ABS here.
Mahindra Mojo
The first big bike from Mahindra also happens to be one of its finest ever. The Mojo is a sports tourer and although the lack of a windscreen does hamper its high speed cruising abilities a bit, the abundance of power and comfortable riding position make it a clear favourite here. The 295 cc engine makes a max 27 hp, while the grippy Pirelli Sport Demon tyres, USD forks up front, and slightly quirky styling add character to the bike.
UM Renegade
There are three variations of the Renegade — Sport S, Commando, and Classic. All three use a 279 cc engine that makes about 25 hp, but if highway cruising is the job, the Classic becomes a clear choice. Slightly devoid of the styling on the other two, the Classic comes with a windscreen up front, spoke wheels, and also a backrest, much like the Avenger Cruise and the Thunderbird.
Hyosung Aquila GV250
When Kinetic had originally brought the Hyosungs (Aquila and Comet both), they turned out to be exclusive but enthusiasts’ favourites. A couple of years later, with an improved network set up by the DSK Group, the Aquila is back. Since we’re on a budget, we’ll leave the more powerful 650 cc engined version and stick to the Aquila GV250. Competitively priced, the bike uses a 26.2 hp-producing 249 cc engine, but gets a wide-seat, low riding position, and a lot of street presence.
But if you are inclined on taking the road less travelled:
Royal Enfield Himalayan
One of the least expensive adventure-related bikes in the country — least expensive, actually, given Hero had reportedly stopped production of the Impulse — the RE Himalayan will let you explore different routes from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. The bike is powered by a 411 cc, all new engine that makes 24 hp. And irrespective of what the difficult terrain throws at it, the Himalayan is likely to deal with it. As long as you can get it registered, that is — NGT doesn’t allow the registration of any new motorcycle with a sub-BSIV emission rating in Delhi.
Aquila’s pic source