Top 5 Touring Bikes Under ₹ 3 Lakh

More and more people are getting into touring, and it's becoming a popular choice for riders. Motorcycle manufacturers are taking notice and introducing bikes that cater to this growing trend. While it's true that you can tour on any bike, some are specifically designed to enhance the touring experience. In this article, we've put together a list of the top 5 touring bikes under ₹3 lakh.

Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX

The Suzuki V-Strom 250 is priced at ₹2,14,058 (ex-showroom). It has a powerful performance with its 26.5 bhp and 22.2 Nm torque. It has a ground clearance of 205 mm, making it good at handling rough terrains. Its easy handling, punchy motor with good acceleration and mid-range capability allow for a comfortable cruising speed between 100-110 kmph, ideal for touring. The bike is frugal for the kind of performance it offers.

While it might not have a proper long travel suspension, the V-Strom 250’S suspension is well-suited for tackling bad roads and potholes, contributing to a smooth ride. Additionally, the riding ergonomics are designed for comfort, making it an excellent choice for long-distance touring. The wide pillion seat adds to the bike's touring-friendly features. However, the V-Strom SX has its share of downsides including a relatively high price point, a tall seat at 835 mm, and vibrations at higher revs. The gearbox is clunky and the brakes tend to fade easily. The LCD instrument console may also feel a bit dated to some users. While it excels in many aspects, it's important to note that the V-Strom SX is not a hardcore off-roader like the Himalayan 411.

Royal Enfield Himalayan 450

The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, priced at ₹ 2,69,000 (ex-showroom) for the base variant. The top most variant of the Himalayan 450 is priced slightly shy of 3 lakhs at ₹ 2,84,000 (ex-showroom) The new Himalayan 450 is the first Royal Enfield bike to feature a liquid-cooled engine, generating an impressive 39.47 bhp and 40 Nm of torque. One of its standout features is its performance, effortlessly cruising at triple-digit speeds. The bike offers versatility with a low seat height option at 805 mm, catering to a wide range of riders. Its 230 mm ground clearance makes the motorcycle capable of serious offroad. Royal Enfield engineers have employed clever engineering to keep the seat height low that improves confidence of the rider while taking on off-road challenges. Visually, the Himalayan 450 resembles a formidable adventure bike, featuring a spacious tank and wider handlebars from the rider's perspective.

The inclusion of a TFT screen with extensive connectivity options adds a modern touch to the bike. Its long-travel suspension further establishes it as a reliable off-road companion. However, the bike comes with some drawbacks, including its substantial weight of 196 kg and the use of tube tyres. Some riders may miss the low-end torque characteristic of the older Himalayan model, often likened to a tractor. Additionally, the availability of the majority of OEM accessories remains a concern for prospective buyers. Despite these drawbacks, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 remains a compelling choice for riders seeking an adventure-ready motorcycle.

TVS Apache RR 310

The TVS Apache RR 310, priced at ₹ 2,71,926 (ex-showroom), features a 34 bhp engine delivering 27.3 Nm torque, making it suitable for highway cruising. The model stands out for its comprehensive set of features, including fully adjustable suspension on the BTO variant and a moderately relaxed riding posture. However, certain drawbacks merit attention. Long-distance comfort for the pillion is compromised, and the task of mounting luggage might pose a challenge. The bike's 11-litre fuel tank may necessitate more frequent refuelling stops. At higher revs, the engine feels busy and there are increased vibrations, and taller riders may encounter spatial constraints and windblast due to the shorter windshield. Moreover, in the unfortunate event of a crash, the expensive component cost could translate into a costly repair. Despite these considerations, the TVS Apache RR 310 remains noteworthy for its commendable highway performance and an array of features.

Triumph Scrambler 400X

The Triumph Scrambler 400X is priced at ₹ 2,62,996 (ex-showroom). It has a genuine scrambler aesthetic. The fit finish qualities are commendable with well tucked wiring and lack of uneven panel gaps. The ergonomic seat design provides a comfortable riding experience. What adds to it is the upright riding posture with a wider handlebar and footpegs that accommodate the natural position of the feet.

With a ground clearance of 195 mm, the Scrambler 400X excels in navigating broken roads, with its long travel suspension component. The engine, particularly in the mid-range, contributes to an enjoyable riding experience, and the handling dynamics are commendable for a bike equipped with a 19-inch wheel. Noteworthy features include a ride-by-wire, switchable traction control system, LED lights throughout. The bike also gets tubeless alloy wheels that just adds to the ease of fixing punctures on the go.

However, a few drawbacks should be considered, such as the tall seat height of 835 mm, a disproportionate decrease in fuel efficiency at higher triple-digit speeds, limited space for luggage mounting, excessively soft seats for long-distance touring, and noticeable vibrations throughout the rev range. Despite these considerations, the Triumph Scrambler 400X remains an appealing choice for riders seeking an authentic scrambler experience.

Royal Enfield Meteor 350

The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is priced at ₹ 2,05,826 (ex-showroom) for the base variant and they climb up to ₹ 2,29,802 (ex-showroom) for the top supernova variant. It offers a comfortable riding experience which is usually associated with cruisers. With a low seat height of 765 mm, it accommodates riders of all sizes. The touring seats are a good additional accessory which are complimented by a backrest which is standard on the Supernova variant. The bike is powered by a torquey motor of 27 Nm coming in at 4000 rpm. The tripper navigation unit adds to the convenient navigating experience, and the 15-litre fuel tank capacity adds practicality.

However, the Meteor 350 does come with its set of drawbacks, including stiff suspension and low ground clearance. The clutch action is notably heavy, potentially proving bothersome in city traffic. Moreover, when compared to the Classic 350 and Bullet 350, the Meteor 350 is relatively expensive. Despite these considerations, its focus on comfort and touring features makes it an attractive choice for riders seeking a relaxed and enjoyable riding experience.

Harley Davidson X440

The Harley Davidson X440 is priced from ₹ 2,39,500 to ₹ 2,79,500 (ex-showroom). It is equipped with a potent 440 cc liquid-cooled engine producing 27 bhp and 38 Nm of torque. The impressive torque delivery makes it easy to ride on the highways complimenting its relaxed riding ergos. The bike features a USD fork, contributing to lower unsprung mass and sharper responses. Its modern connectivity features include Bluetooth for music control, turn-by-turn navigation, and call alerts. Despite being a roadster, the bike showcases impressive handling characteristics. Even the throttle calibration is crisp. The well-spread gear ratios provide for a potent performance without the hassle of frequent gear shifts.

However, it does have its drawbacks, including subpar quality and fit and finish. Taller riders might find the bike a bit cramped, and the premium pricing at ₹ 2,39,500 (ex-showroom) could be a deterrent for some. Additionally, the limited dealership network might pose a challenge for potential buyers. Despite these concerns, the Harley Davidson X440 stands out for its powerful engine and modern features, making it a compelling choice for riders seeking a potent performance on extended highway journeys.