Top 5 Things to Notice During a Test Ride to Choose Your Favourite Motorcycle

Picking the right motorcycle is a big decision. It's not just about the specs and the looks, it's about finding a bike that feels like an extension of yourself, a machine that inspires confidence and ignites your riding passion. And if you’re a lover of bikes that have a sporty feel and are built for high performance, like the Hero Xtreme 160R 4V, you want to feel how the bike actually rides.

That's why a test ride is an essential part of the process. It's your chance to get up close and personal with a motorcycle, to see how it feels, rides, and handles before you commit.

So, what should you be paying attention to during your test ride? Here are the top 5 things to notice.

#1 - Comfort

Comfort is king and will always be whenever you will try to choose from the various options available for the latest bikes in India. You're going to be spending a lot of time on this bike, so you need to make sure it's comfortable. How does it feel when you sit on it? Are your knees bent at a comfortable angle? Can you reach the handlebars and footpegs easily? Does the seat feel plush or like a plank of wood?

Pay attention to the little details too, like the wind protection and the heat coming off the engine. The Xtreme 160R 4V features a split seat that is interchangeable with a single seat, a grab rail and an ergonomic riding position that offers supreme comfort to the rider and the pillion.

#2 - Handling and Control

Next, you must observe how the motorcycle responds to your input. Does it turn smoothly and effortlessly, or does it feel heavy and sluggish? Can you easily manoeuvre it at low speeds, like in parking lots or tight corners? Also, see how it handles on more open roads.

Take the bike through some twisties and see how it feels leaning into corners. A good motorcycle, like the Hero Xtreme 160R 4V, should feel like an extension of your body, responding intuitively to your every move. The Xtreme 160R 4V has a 130 mm radial rear tyre for better stability, road grip and handling.

#3 - Performance

Let's face it: most motorcycle riders like a little bit of power. But how much power do you really need? And how important is acceleration to you? Take the bike up to speed and see how it feels. Does it have enough get-up-and-go to satisfy you? Are the brakes strong and reassuring? And how does it feel at high speeds?

You don't necessarily need a rocket ship, but you don't want to be left wanting more either. Fortunately, the Xtreme 160R 4V doesn’t disappoint in this regard at all. With a 163.2 cc 4-stroke, air-oil-cooled engine, this beast produces a peak power of 16.9 Ps @ 8500 rpm and a peak torque of 14.6 Nm @ 6500 rpm, giving you the power you need.

#4 - Suspension and Ride Quality

Our roads aren't exactly billiard tables, so your choice from the latest bikes in India should be able to handle bumps and potholes. See how the suspension soaks up the rough stuff? Is the ride smooth and comfortable, or does it jar your teeth every time you hit a crack? Take the bike over different types of surfaces, from smooth highways to gravel roads, and see how it handles each one.

If we look at the Xtreme 160R 4V, it has a standard telescopic suspension at the front (standard variant) and a 7-step adjustable mono-shock suspension at the rear, making every ride a breeze.

#5 - Noise and Vibration

Some people love the roar of a motorcycle engine, while others prefer a quieter ride. How loud is the engine when idle and at speed? Does it vibrate excessively? These are things you'll want to consider, especially if you're planning on doing long rides.

The Hero Xtreme 160R 4V features a sporty exhaust that produces a sound that’s not hurtful to the ears but at the same time, sets your adrenaline rushing.

Which Motorcycle Is Right for You?

While considering the best bike for yourself, the price also plays a crucial role in addition to the test ride experience. Say you’ve decided that the Xtreme 160R 4V would be your next bike. Then you also need to check out the Xtreme 160R 4V price in Delhi and other locations. You’ll find that the performance more than justifies the price.

Now that you've considered all of these factors, it's time to decide which motorcycle is right for you. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, as the best bike for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. But by paying attention to these five things during your test rides, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect motorcycle for your next adventure.

Bonus Tip: Don't be afraid to ask questions! The salesperson at the dealership is there to help you find the right bike. Ask them about the features of the motorcycle, take the Hero Xtreme 160R 4V (if that’s your selection) for a longer test ride if you need to, and make sure you're comfortable before you make a decision.