We’ll address the elephant in the room right away. The KTM 390 Duke is the weapon of choice for most because of its combination of pricing, features and performance. However, it still doesn’t offer that big-bike feel, or the feeling that it will last years longer than its competition. It also is a single engine, and the Z250 is a parallel twin that prefers to perform at high revs, rather than generate gobs of torque in the midrange. What then, can you get which is similar?
The Hyosung Aquila GV250 is a motorcycle priced roughly Rs 10,000 cheaper than the Z250. What you get for your money is a 250cc V-twin cruiser that first made waves way back when it was the sole twin at that capacity in the market. Today, however, it is pretty much the only option at that price. It goes well with its 26bhp motor, but lacks the brand value that the Japanese brands bring to the table.
Something that is much closer to the Z’s concept is the Benelli TNT 300. This is not just a good-looking machine; it sounds like a million bucks as well. It generates a decent amount of power at 38bhp, but the handling has room for improvement. The almost-200kg kerb weight is to blame here: acceleration, braking and turn-in, all feel a little dull because of that figure. The upside-down front forks, offset rear monoshock and exposed trellis frame give it a unique appearance among the lot. It is priced nearly as much as the Z250, and if you prefer your street bike with a European flavour rather than a Japanese one, the TNT is it.
Another motorcycle that is priced within a few thousand rupees of the Z250 is the Hyosung GT250R. This is also a V-twin like the Aquila and makes a similar amount of power, at 28bhp. However, the fairing isn’t just for show: the riding position is a proper supersport one, and this is the largest motorcycle in terms of size. This is the second-heaviest product here at 188kg, which means performance is blunted. If you want big-bike attention at 250cc prices, the GT250R is the answer.
Finally, almost out of reach is the Yamaha YZF-R3. It is priced Rs 22,000 more than the Z250 at the ex-showroom level, meaning that this difference grows greater with on-road price. However, you get a refined 321cc, 41bhp sportbike that is learner-friendly as well as enjoyable for the advanced rider. It also gets the pedigree that the brand brings, along with the reputation that its sportbikes have. However, the pricing puts it just that little bit above consideration for someone who is in the market for a Z250.
