Choosing the Right Bike for Your First Ride: R15M, MT15, or Hunter 350?
Deciding which bike to buy as your first ride can be a daunting task, especially when you have options like the R15M, MT15, and Hunter 350 in your considering list. All these bikes belong to different categories, but they often fall into the same price bracket. This article will help you in making an informed decision based on your riding style and city use requirements.
Understanding the Bikes
R15M: This is an aggressive track-based bike that has been modified to run in the city. It is known for its powerful performance but is not the most comfortable bike for everyone. If you experience wrist and shoulder pain while riding the R15M, it might not be the best choice for you. Additionally, due to its liquid cooling system, the R15M is more expensive to maintain and run, which can lead to higher fuel costs. If you are looking for a bike that is well-suited for city use and short to medium weekend rides, you might want to consider an air-cooled bike in the 150-160cc range instead.
MT15: The MT15 is a naked bike, and it is well-suited for both city and long rides. It offers a comfortable riding position, with an estimated mileage of around 45km/h (kmpl) and a top speed of about 140km/h (kmph). The MT15 is a more practical choice if you want a bike that is easy to ride and maintain, with lower fuel and maintenance costs. It is a well-rounded bike that can cater to various riding conditions.
Hunter 350: The Hunter 350 is a bike with a large engine that delivers generous torque, making it a better choice for city use compared to the R15M with its 155cc engine. The recent models from RE (Royal Enfield) are also known for their refined performance and quieter operation. However, the Hunter 350 can be quite heavy, and it might not be easy for everyone to adapt to, especially those who are shorter in stature. If you are looking for a bike that provides a comfortable and smooth ride, the Hunter 350 could be a great option.
Choosing Based on Your Preferences
When deciding which bike to buy, it's essential to consider your individual preferences and the type of riding you plan to do. If you love the aggressive riding position and if wrist and shoulder pain is not an issue for you, then the R15M might be the best choice. However, if you find that the aggressive riding position of the R15M is not enjoyable, the MT15 would be the more practical choice, as it offers a better riding experience and lower maintenance costs.
To get a better understanding of each bike, it is recommended that you test ride both the Hunter and R15, to see which one feels better to you. The R15M is lighter and offers better handling, especially at the top end speeds, but it requires more effort to get the best performance. If you prefer a more relaxed riding style and enjoy the feeling of the engine in its powerband, then the R15M might be the perfect fit. However, if you prefer a more comfortable riding position and a more relaxed riding style, the MT15 is a better choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the R15M, MT15, or Hunter 350 depends on your individual preferences and your intended use. The R15M is better suited for those who enjoy aggressive riding, while the MT15 and Hunter 350 are more practical choices for city use and longer rides. It's essential to test ride both the Hunter and R15 to determine which bike feels better for you, as this will significantly influence your riding experience.