Husqvarna Vitpilen 250, Svartpilen 250: What else can you buy?

Bajaj had unveiled the Husqvarna Svartpilen 250 and Vitpilen 250 at the India Bike Week in December last year. Now, the company has launched these motorcycles in India at Rs 1.80 lakhs. Before they go on sale through KTM dealerships next month, we take a look at the alternatives with similar price tags. 

Benelli Imperiale 400

As opposed to the modern ethos of the Huskies, the Benelli Imperiale 400 is a retro-inspired offering for those who want something different from the Royal Enfield Classic 350. Besides its old-school design and comfortable ergonomics, the Imperiale 400 had greatly impressed us with its smooth 400cc engine during our first ride review. Priced at Rs 1.69 lakhs, it is an attractive proposition for those who want a pair of wheels with a classic styling. 

Royal Enfield Himalayan

The Royal Enfield Himalayan gave birth to the affordable ADV genre in India. While its adventure-centric components make it eligible for off-road riding, the sofa-like comfort means it is also a capable touring machine. Moreover, the Himalayan is also BS6 compliant now. The standard variant of the bike is priced at Rs 1.86 lakhs while its fancier colour options demand a minor premium.

Suzuki Gixxer SF 250

The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 is fully-faired motorcycle which, although looks profoundly sporty, is a great balance between aggressive and comfortable ergonomics. However, the most desirable aspect of the motorcycle is its extremely refined and potent 250cc, oil-cooled motor which makes 26.1bhp and 22.6Nm. The Gixxer SF 250 is currently priced at Rs 1.70 lakhs but will get slightly more expensive soon when its BS6 model is launched.

KTM RC 200

Now, the KTM RC 200 is a fully-faired bike which is as aggressive in terms of performance as its aesthetics. Its edgy and hunched-forward design is in line with the peppy power delivery from its 199cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. Being a KTM, the RC 200 also packs premium components such as steel trellis frame, WP suspension setup and ByBre brakes. The new BS6 model of the motorcycle retails at Rs 1.96 lakhs.

Bajaj Dominar 400

The Dominar 400 is Bajaj’s flagship offering which costs Rs 1.90 lakhs. Sharing its 373cc engine with the KTM 390 Duke, the Dominar is a touring motorcycle with ergonomics suitable for hours of riding. Furthermore, it had also received a major update last year which brought along various new features and better cycle parts. 

Jawa Perak

The Jawa Perak is one of the few bikes which will help you stand out of the crowd owing to its bobber styling. Notably, the Perak is the most affordable bobber you can buy in India. Besides the eye-catchy design, it features a 334cc, liquid-cooled engine which, unlike its other Jawa siblings, is already BS6 compliant. Producing 30bhp and 31Nm, this motor comes mated to a six-speed gearbox. You can get your hands on the Perak at Rs 1.94 lakhs. 

(All prices are ex-showroom)