Each year during the festive season, there are a ton of discounts, attractive offers, flash sales, and more, promising customers the best time to shop. However, this festive season, apart from the usual seasonal offers by dealers, there is an added advantage due to the recent GST revisions on motorcycles below 350cc. With the tax reduced in this category, many manufacturers are expected to witness a surge in sales, as customers looking to upgrade their two-wheelers can now afford to do so. From luxury bikes that earlier seemed out of reach to daily commuter scooters, there is a wide range of motorcycles that you can consider buying under the budget of ₹3 lakh.
However, we must ask ourselves whether the GST reduction is a fair deal or a short-term festive trick. Here are some of the motorcycles that you can consider purchasing this Diwali.
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Why This Diwali Actually Matters for Motorcycle Buyers
Tax changes rarely impact buyers in any noticeable way. But, it will make a difference in some cases. Such as when a certain category of goods, say two-wheelers below 350cc, are put in a lower tax bracket. Because, it provides a breathing space for manufacturers to possibly cut prices. Especially when you add in Diwali discounts, exchange bonuses on old bikes and flexible payment plans to finance a new bike. So, it gives you a good advantage to bargain, if not buy a cheaper bike.
But, not all that glitters is gold. So, don’t jump towards the cheapest model. You need to know which motorbike suits you the most, before you shop around for the best prices.
What Should You Actually Look for When Buying a Bike This Diwali?
Festive enthusiasm can cloud judgment and lead one towards a quick and impulsive purchase. However, when it comes to making a big-ticket purchase, it is always important to keep your head clear on the subject. While price and comfort are important aspects, prospective buyers must also keep in mind the functionality and performance of a vehicle, especially if they intend to use it on the highways. Moreover, the presence of features like ABS, connectivity and riding modes do not necessarily translate to everyday ease of riding.
No matter how good a motorcycle is, it can turn out to be a pain if servicing and spares are not easily available. Apart from the maintenance costs, the initial prize of the bike is also not the only determining factor. Fuel costs, insurance, servicing and most importantly, tyres play a major role in determining the overall budget for a vehicle. Keeping this in mind, here are 3 motorcycles that we think would be a great buy for any rider this Diwali.
TVS Apache RTX 300: A New Adventure Bike That Challenges Expectations
The Apache RTX 300 is TVS’ first foray into the adventure touring space, which makes this motorcycle rather special. The brand has been gunning for a bigger share of the two-wheeler market for quite some time now, and this seems like the right move. Adventure bikes are generally expensive and loaded with specs, so the RTX 300 manages to walk the tightrope between power and price brilliantly. It has the 299cc motor that will slash through the highway while being tractable enough on the roads, and an upright riding posture that allows it to be more comfortable on the long haul than regular commuter motorcycles.
As an idea, the RTX 300 is brilliant; as a product, it may have some issues. The bike is new, and as such, it will take time before we can judge its reliability and how well it holds its value. Unless you are a brand loyalist, there is no logical reason to choose this model over the stable offerings from the usual suspects. However, people that are looking for a do-it-all motorcycle that does not cost more than 3 lacks will find the RTX 300 hard to ignore. It might not appeal to the traditional motorcycle buyers, but the new model will attract a fair number of customers interested in a more modern take on the adventure touring segment.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350: Familiar, Reliable, and Still Hard to Ignore
Few motorcycles in India can match the aura of a Royal Enfield. But the Hunter 350 seeks to not only add to the legacy but also update it. In many ways the Hunter feels like a lightweight version of the larger Royal Enfield motorcycles. But it manages to stay true to its brand ethos nonetheless. It manages to keep itself practical for day-to-day use without losing out on the comfort of riding a Royal Enfield.
The 350cc motor might not be the most powerful in its class, but it never promises to be. The feeling is more of a laid back motorcycle that gets you from point A to B with ease. But what sets the Hunter apart from the competition is the ownership experience. High re-sale value and a vast service network ensures that it will always be a good buy. Even as it loses out on the tech and spec department to its rivals, the Royal Enfield brand equity ensures that it will always have a dedicated following.
Yamaha MT-15 V2: The Sensible Choice for Everyday Riders
Not all people want a powerful engine or a touring bike. Many people only want the motorcycle for commuting purposes. So we recommend the Yamaha MT-15 V2 because it is light, has a fuel efficient engine, and is easy to ride.
While the bike is powerful enough for commuting, it does not have the powerful engine or the good looks as a bigger bike. It is also much more efficient than a larger bike and cheaper to maintain. However, if someone wants a bike that can handle all forms of riding and is comfortable on the highway, then the bike might not be right for them. Generally, the Yamaha MT-15 V2 is a great bike for people looking to buy their first motorcycle or commute. It is one of the best choices for the money.
How the GST Change Actually Influences Buying Decisions
The adjustment in GST mainly benefits the category of motorcycles up to 350 cc. So by making bikes like RTX 300 and Hunter 350 relatively cheaper than the higher category bikes which are more taxed, the buyers get an option without huge price differences.
So any potential buyer who was planning to buy a smaller bike to commute can now think of buying a bigger bike.
Which One Should You Choose?
The answer depends solely on the criteria. If touring and the comfort of the highway are a priority, then Apache RTX 300 is an ideal choice. If the buyer prioritizes reliability, value, and overall feel of the bike, then Hunter 350 is the better option. If the buyer is prioritizing their commute and overall practicality, MT-15 V2 is the superior motorcycle. All three of these motorcycles have different strong points and none are without their weak points.
How to Get the Best Deal This Diwali
Festive Season deals can work out well for you but only if done the right way. Always ask for complete on-road prices and not the ex-showroom price. Ask the dealer about any exchange bonus they might be offering and also any warranty package and accessories that come with the bike.
Test rides are a must to get a real feel of the bike. Specifications may not tell you about the comfort and maneuverability. Most importantly, do not get tempted into buying a bike just because it is on offer during festivals. It’s a big purchase so take your time and make the right decision.
Wrapping it up
This Diwali is not a gimmick. The tax slabs, competition between manufacturers and festive discounts have genuinely pushed up the value in the sub-3 lakh category. Apache RTX 300 has futuristic appeal. Hunter 350 has proven its mettle. MT-15 has the most everyday utility and convenience.
But then, which one should you choose? Well, it really boils down to your requirements. Those that are willing to look past starry-eyed marketing and make a pragmatic purchase decision stand to benefit massively this Diwali, by buying the motorcycle of their dreams.