Mohsin Khaiyam (Senior Sub-Editor)
Northeast India is among the wonders of nature, and looking into the region, it surely mesmerises everyone. While people outside the region do not know much about the region, they would consider it to be only a hilly or jungle area, but that is far from the truth. While it does have its share of hills and jungles, it boasts almost every modern technology. People will find everything here. From the fanciest hotels and pubs to the deepest jungle!
But one thing is much more unique here. It is the road network. The roads in Northeast India are both plains and hills, so riders can enjoy a high-speed chase and also some curves. But riding with proper gear and safety is always needed! With this in mind, we have listed out five motorcycles that are ideal for riding in the Northeast. While Royal Enfields are no doubt the ideal choice, the list excludes the bulls and suggests some alternatives. Check them out:
1. Bajaj Dominar 400
The Bajaj Dominar 400 is the first option on the list because it has always been promoted as the Royal Enfield alternative. The machine offers both power and comfort on a budget. It produces 39.4 bhp and 35 Nm of torque thanks to a 373.3 cc engine. It also delivers an average of 30 KMPL. With DNA that matches the Pulsars and Dukes, it is perfect for long-distance touring.
Horizon Score: 4/5
2. Hero Xpulse 200
We wanted to add the Hero Karizma to the list, but since it was discontinued, we sorted out the Xpulse 200. The Xpulse is an off-road machine that comes with a 199.6 cc engine delivering 18.4 bhp and 17.3 Nm of torque. However, it is an awesome motorcycle for exploring, as the long-travel suspension and spoked wheels can take you on any road that you may come across. With an average speed of 38–40 km/h, this is an ideal machine for long rides as well.
Horizon Score: 3.5/5
3. Bajaj Avenger 220
The Bajaj Avenger 220 offers both power and comfort with its 219.9 cc engine. With 19.05 bhp and 17.7 Nm of torque, along with a fuel efficiency of around 35 kmpl, cruising on the curves of Meghalaya, the Avenger gives it all. The upright rider’s seating position and a backrest for the pillion make it perfect for long-distance touring. However, offroading or bad roads are a challenge on this motorcycle, as it is more of a cruiser in its class.
Horizon Score: 3.5/5
4. Honda CB350RS
The Honda CB350RS can be a direct alternative to any Enfield on the market. It has a retro design with modern features. Its 348.36 cc engine produces 20.8 bhp and 30.7 Nm of torque. The fuel efficiency of around 30-35 kmpl makes it great both on highways and city roads.
Horizon Score: 3/5
5. Bajaj Pulsar NS200
When we make a list of motorcycles in India, it may be quite rare to leave out the Pulsar NS200. The NS200 is the successor of the DTS-I line of Pulsars in India. While Pulsar’s DTS-I version comes in 125, 150, 180, and 220 cc variants, it lacks a number that is 200. Although for about two years Pulsar had a 200 DTS-I, the NS200 is its successor. With power, mileage, style, and agility, the Pulsar NS200 is a five-star motorcycle. With a 199 cc engine producing 24+ bhp and a mileage of 40+, the NS200 gives most motorcycles in the class a run for their money. It can take on any road condition and hardly ever sees any flaws.
Horizon Score: 4.8/5
This is the list of the top five motorcycles for touring the Northeast. Keep following Enigmatic Horizon for more of such content.
