Top five underrated bikes between Rs 2-3 lakh

This serves as a follow up to our initial article on the top underrated bikes in India under Rs 2 lakh. Like last time, this is a list of motorcycles that end up being more impressive than their sales figures reflect and we’ll begin from the bike with the lowest price.

1. Suzuki V-Strom 250 (Rs 2.16 lakh)

Available in one variant and three colours

The Suzuki V-Strom SX is the most affordable bike on this list and also one of the oldest. It has been recently updated to meet the OBD 2B norms, but is otherwise the same as when it was first introduced in 2022. The V-Strom’s highlights are that its oil cooled 249cc has enough performance for highway touring but is also good to use within the city. It has very comfortable ergonomics with a spacious seating position and good overall comfort. What holds this bike back is the fact that it doesn’t have long travel suspension and that the seat is a little tall, but if you are looking for a competent road tourer on a budget, this makes for a great choice. To know more about the V-Strom SX, you can read our full review here.

2. Java 42 FJ (RS 2.1-2.2 LAKH)

Available in one variant and six colourways

The new Jawa 42 FJ marks a noticeable improvement both in terms of overall quality as well as riding manners. Its new 334cc liquid cooled engine is smooth, tractable and makes a good sound while improved cooling helps city riding comfort. The bike handles well too, making for a fun ride on a winding road. The new 42 Fj marks a significant change for Classic Legends motorcycles and it is one of their best products yet. You can read our detailed review of the Jawa 42 FJ hereor watch our video review here.

3. Husqvarna 250/401 (Rs 2.23- 2.97 Lakh)

250 and 401 available in one colour each

Husqvarna has two bikes that qualify for this list. The first is the Vitpilen 250 which is based on the KTM 250 Duke and the other is the Svartpilen 401 which is based on the 390 Duke. Both motorcycles bring in their unique Swedish style, which alone is a reason to consider them over the equivalent KTMs. There is also the fact that both have slightly lower prices than their Austrian counterparts and that they also have more spacious seating positions. For taller riders, this is quite relevant as the Gen 3 KTMs have more compact seating positions than the Gen 2 models. Aside from the visual changes, the Husqvarna motorcycles are mechanically mostly the same as their KTM siblings and are also sold out of the same dealer network. Read our Husqvarna 250 review here and our Husqvarna Black Arrow 401 Price Here.

4. Harley Davidson X440 (Rs 2.39- Rs 2.79 lakh)

Available in three trim levels with a total of six colours

The Harley-Davidson X440 is the first product born off the partnership between Hero and Harley Davidson. It boasts a characterful 440cc oil-cooled engine with good power, plenty of torque and a nice soundtrack. The Harley also has a good chassis that offers a decent mix of handling capability and rider comfort. What has held the Harley back in the Indian market so far is its availability and that the design is not to all tastes. However, the motorcycle itself deserves to do better and the same holds true for its platform sibling, the Hero Mavrick 440. Click here to read our first ride review of the Harley X440 or how if you want to know it fared in a comparison with the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Triumph Speed 400, click here

5. Honda CB300R (Rs 2.4 lakh)

Available in one trim and two colours

The final bike on this list is another 300cc Honda, after the CB300F which featured in our previous list of underrated bikes under Rs 2 lakh. The Honda CB300R may have a similar sounding name but it is very different to the CB300F with more of a performance focus. This bike’s USP is its low weight figure of just 146kg, which is around 30 kilos less than its direct rival, the Triumph Speed 400. That helps the Honda to perform better than you would expect with its 31hp power output and it is great fun to ride. The original high price was a reason why the bike never picked up, but at Rs 2.4 lakh ex-showroom, the CB300R has great appeal. Click here to read our full review of the Honda CB300R.

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