For Speed Thriller Shenanigans
Unleash your inner speed demon! We've scoured the highways and byways to uncover the ultimate two-wheeled wonders. These bikes don't just ride—they flirt with danger. Buckle up, adrenaline junkies!
Triumph Speed 400
The Triumph Speed 400 is a compelling entry-level motorcycle that combines style, performance, and rider-friendly features. The Speed 400 boasts clean retro-inspired lines and a gorgeous paint scheme. Its overall design exudes sophistication, making it an attractive choice for beginner riders. The heart of the Speed 400 is its 398cc single-cylinder engine. Triumph claims it produces 39.5 hp at 8,000 rpm and 27.7 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,500 rpm. Thanks to its oversquare design, the engine can rev up to that 8,000-rpm peak power while still delivering ample torque at lower revs.
The torquey engine ensures spirited acceleration, whether you're navigating city streets or enjoying open roads. Comfortable ergonomics make the Speed 400 suitable for both short commutes and longer rides. The suspension is well-damped, providing a smooth and controlled ride. Triumph has nailed the aesthetics with the Speed 400. Despite being an entry-level bike, there's nothing "budget-built" about it. The attention to detail and quality components elevates its overall appeal.
Thus, the Triumph Speed 400 is a standout choice for new riders. Whether you're cruising through city traffic or exploring scenic routes, this bike promises a punchy and enjoyable experience without compromising on style or performance.
By Ishita Kamra
Kawasaki KLX300SM
The KLX300SM shares its core components with the KLX300, including the 292cc DOHC liquid-cooled four-valves-per-cylinder four-stroke engine and semi-double cradle frame. However, each variant receives adjustments tailored to its discipline. Notably, the SM version features stiffer spring rates for road use.
The KLX300SM boasts a 43mm inverted fork with 9.1 inches of travel and a Uni-Track shock providing 8.1 inches of travel. These components are optimized for supermoto performance. The direct steering makes it easy to navigate corners, whether tightening or opening up the arch.
Equipped with 17-inch wheels fitted with IRC RX-01 Road Winner tires, the KLX300SM is ready for asphalt adventures. The front end features a large 300mm semi-floating disc brake with a dual-piston caliper, enhancing stopping power and control.
During our ride, the KLX300SM proved its mettle. We carved up the on-site go-kart track, where it effortlessly lofted the front wheel, backed into turns, and even performed nose stoppies.
Therefore, the 2024 Kawasaki KLX300SM offers supermoto enthusiasts an exciting blend of agility, style, and affordability. It's a real masterpiece that delivers smiles per mile, whether you're tearing up the streets or hitting the track.
2024 Honda Grom
The 2024 Grom celebrates its 10-year anniversary with fresh colors. The base model flaunts Blue Raspberry, Pearl White, and Nitric Orange bodywork. The ABS version comes in Pearl White, while the Grom SP stands out in Matte Gray Metallic. It's a compact and stylish ride that catches eyes wherever it goes.
The Grom's peppy 124cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine is electronically fuel-injected. It sips fuel efficiently, boasting a claimed 166.5 mpg. The five-speed transmission, introduced in 2022, remains unchanged. Whether you're zipping through city streets or cruising around, the Grom delivers fun and practicality in a tiny package.
Weighing in at just 224 pounds (227 pounds for the ABS-equipped version), the Grom is easy to handle. Its low 30-inch seat height makes it approachable for riders of varying inseams.
The Grom features 12-inch cast wheels (gold on the SP model), a 31mm inverted fork, a single shock, and a 220mm/190mm disc brake combo. These components remain unchanged, providing a stable and responsive ride.
In summary, the 2024 Honda Grom is a little overachiever—affordable, fuel-efficient, and a hooligan's delight. Whether you're commuting or carving corners, this minibike continues to capture hearts and turn heads.
Yamaha MT-07
The 2024 Yamaha MT-07 boasts an aggressive body design with a signature Y-shaped LED face. Its twin winglet-type air intakes and compact LED lights give it a bold and futuristic appearance, staying true to the Yamaha Hyper Naked DNA. Underneath that eye-catching exterior lies the heart of the beast—a torque-rich 690cc CP2 engine. The MT-07 delivers grin-inducing acceleration, promising an addictive level of thrill.
Yamaha designed the MT series with versatility in mind, and the MT-07 exemplifies this philosophy. Its natural ergonomics, accessible seat height, and flexible riding position make it an ideal choice for daily commuting or weekend adventures. The MT-07 has been the best-selling Hyper Naked motorcycle since its launch in 2014, with over 160,000 units sold. Its combination of performance, style, and approachability has resonated with riders worldwide. Now, with the latest model featuring EU5-compliant engine tuning and enhanced TFT instruments, the MT-07 continues to lead the pack.
In summary, the 2024 Yamaha MT-07 is an embodiment of the MT concept—a perfect blend of fun, style, and value. Whether you're carving corners or navigating city traffic, the MT-07 promises an exhilarating ride every time you swing a leg over its saddle.
KTM 390 Adventure
Typically, entry-level adventure bikes are more adventurous in name than in actual performance. They may borrow some adventure styling elements, such as spoke wheels or rally-inspired fairings, but often suffer from lacklustre suspension, unexciting engines, and an abundance of cheap plastic components. However, the KTM 390 Adventure breaks this trend.
The KTM 390 Adventure strikes a balance between being approachable for beginners and receiving the trademark KTM treatment. It features refined WP Apex suspension, a vibrant full-colour TFT dashboard, and a small yet powerful single-cylinder engine that handles highway speeds with ease.
Rather than using fancy names for its new colour options, the KTM 390 Adventure keeps it simple with white and black shades. The bike owes its excellent performance to the 373cc liquid-cooled motor and sharp handling. Although it excels as a touring machine, it isn't particularly known for off-roading adventures—a gap that KTM should address in the next-generation model.
As the most feature-rich motorcycle in its segment, the KTM 390 Adventure offers a traction control system, lean-sensitive cornering ABS, ride-by-wire throttle, dual-channel ABS with Supermoto mode, and more. Additional features include riding modes, LED lighting all around, and a colour TFT dashboard with Bluetooth connectivity.
Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1100
Welcome to the RSV4 Factory experience! This premium superbike, positioned at the pinnacle of its category, caters to riders who demand exceptional performance without compromising the renowned quality and safety associated with Aprilia. The RSV4 embodies the expertise honed by the Aprilia Racing Division on tracks worldwide, granting riders the exhilarating thrills akin to those experienced by riders of some of history's most potent motorcycles.
Advancing further, the RSV4 boasts cutting-edge electronics, a Euro 5-compliant engine, and a dynamic, aggressive design that makes it the coveted choice for any discerning biker. With an impressive 217 horsepower at 13,000 rpm, the RSV4 not only maintains its high-performance credentials but also surpasses the stringent Euro 5 standards. It now achieves a top speed of 305 km/h, breaking barriers.
Contributing to its environmental efficiency, the new Magneti Marelli ECU 11MP control system and a lighter exhaust with reduced thermal inertia help minimize emissions. Additionally, the RSV4 is available in a Factory variant. While both versions feature the revamped V4 1099cc engine, the Factory edition includes premium components such as forged aluminium wheel rims, an Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension system, and Brembo Stylema brake callipers.
From the July 2024 issue of FHM India.
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