Suzuki recently launched the much-anticipated V-Strom 800DE in India with an attractive price tag of Rs. 10.30 lakh. Although it comes across as an enticing proposition on paper, there are four other similarly priced alternatives that are worthy of your consideration.
With a price tag of Rs. 9.29 lakh, the Kawasaki Z900 is one of the most affordable inline four-cylinder offerings in India. We recently tested the motorcycle and it turned out to be super impressive. It’s not only fast and sounds visceral, but also quite practical and easy to live with. However, it’s a bit vanilla in terms of tech for its segment.
Ducati Scrambler
The Icon variant of the Ducati Scrambler costs Rs. 10.39. While it looks way too compact for a 803cc motorcycle, the overall design and stance is adorable. Also, it might not justify the scrambler tag off-road, the tarmac is where it surprises you with its playful and vigorous persona. Unlike the previous model, which was rudimentary in terms of features, the 2024 edition gets a TFT screen, multiple power levels, four-level traction control, and two riding modes.
The Triumph Street Triple R is one of the most capable naked street bikes out there. Its 765cc, inline triple-cylinder engine is truly a peach with profound smoothness, a sonorous exhaust note and punchy acceleration. The hardware package is also impressive with adjustable Showa suspension and Nissin brake calipers while the long feature list makes it further appealing. It is pegged at Rs. 10.43 lakh.
Honda Transalp
The Honda Transalp is the closest rival to the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE. Inspired by the bigger Africa Twin, the Transalp is powered by a 755cc, twin-cylinder engine that produces 90.5bhp and 75Nm. Similar to the V-Strom, the Transalp is also focused on adventure riding with a 21-18-inch spoke wheel combination and a long-travel Showa suspension setup. With a price tag of Rs. 11 lakh, it’s close to Rs. 70,000 more expensive than its rival from Suzuki.
(All prices are ex-showroom)