World Motorcycle Day, on June 21st, is more than just a day – it’s a celebration of freedom, camaraderie, and the open road. As the longest day of the year, it offers the perfect chance to stretch your ride and soak up some sunshine on two wheels.
This day is dedicated to everyone who loves motorcycles, from enthusiastic riders to those who keep the industry running smoothly. Biker groups across the country come together to share their passion and showcase their rides.
Whether you’ve been cruising for years or are just starting out, motorcycles offer a unique way to experience the world. They’ve been a reliable mode of transportation for over a century, getting you where you need to go, be it for your daily commute or epic adventures.
Speaking of adventures, the post-pandemic travel boom has seen a surge in motorcycle touring, especially to breathtaking destinations like Ladakh.
To fuel your wanderlust and celebrate World Motorcycle Day, here are the top five bikes to consider for your next Ladakh adventure!
Himalayan 450
Living up to its name, the Himalayan 450 is a dream machine for touring enthusiasts. With the recent launch, it’s no surprise it’s landed on countless wishlists.
The powerful 452cc BS6 engine packs a punch, delivering 39.47 bhp and 40 Nm of torque. This translates to effortless cruising on any route, conquering even the steepest ascents. The long-travel suspension absorbs bumps with ease, making even challenging tracks a joyride. Plus, with a ground clearance of 230mm, no obstacle is too big.
The base variant of the Himalayan 450 boasts a fuel-efficient 452cc engine, delivering an estimated 30 kmpl, making extended journeys budget-friendly. And the starting price of Rs. 2.85 Lakh makes it an attractive option for adventure seekers.
Royal Enfield Classic 350
There’s a reason the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is a legend. This iconic motorcycle inspires such devotion that riders hold events dedicated to cruising on it. For your Ladakh adventure, the Classic 350 offers a timeless combination of simplicity and reliability.
The 349.34cc BS6 engine might not boast the biggest numbers, but it delivers a steady 20.21 PS and 27 Nm of torque, perfect for navigating mountain roads. While the 170mm ground clearance may not be the highest, the Classic 350 provides a truly unique riding experience in the mountains. Plus, with a fuel efficiency of around 32 kmpl and a starting price of ₹1.65 lakhs, it’s a budget-friendly choice.
And the best part? You can easily rent a Classic 350 in Ladakh.
Hero Xpulse 200 4V
The Hero Xpulse 200 4V isn’t afraid to get its wheels dirty. Often credited with pioneering the adventure touring segment in India, it’s a true off-road champion.
Its 199.6cc BS6 engine packs a punch with 18.9 bhp and 17.35 Nm of torque, making it powerful enough for any mountain climb. With a ground clearance of 220mm, it tackles rocky terrain with ease. Comfort is key on long journeys, and the Xpulse 200 4V delivers.
Plus, its impressive fuel efficiency of 52.2 kmpl keeps costs down, letting you focus on the adventure. With a starting price of just ₹1.41 Lakhs, it’s a budget-friendly option that proves great things come in small packages.
KTM 390 Adventure
The KTM 390 Adventure is an Austrian powerhouse built to dominate any terrain. This lightweight beast is one of the most powerful machines on this list, featuring a cutting-edge engine that begs to be unleashed on the open road.
With a heart pumping out 43.5 hp (not 45.4 hp of the 390 Duke) and 37 Nm of torque, the 390 Adventure tackles mountain climbs with exhilarating ease. Don’t let the weight fool you – it carves through corners with precision, making every ride an adventure. And the adventure doesn’t stop there. The 390 Adventure boasts a ground clearance of 200mm, allowing you to conquer any obstacle Ladakh throws your way.
While fuel efficiency might not be the highest at around 30 kmpl, the starting price of Rs. 3.39 Lakhs makes it a compelling option for riders seeking a thrilling experience.
Bajaj Dominar 400
Don’t underestimate the Bajaj Dominar 400. This powerful machine has earned its place as a top contender for Ladakh adventures. The 373.3cc, liquid-cooled engine packs a punch with 39.5 horsepower and 35 Nm of torque, effortlessly navigating mountain roads.
But the Dominar isn’t just about muscle. Its comfortable riding posture makes it a great choice for both rider and pillion, ensuring a relaxed journey. While not initially designed for touring, its popularity has led Bajaj to offer touring accessories, making it even more versatile.
The 157mm ground clearance might not be the highest, but the Dominar surprises with its ability to handle muddy trails. Plus, with a fuel efficiency of around 27 kmpl and a starting price of Rs. 2.17 Lakhs, it’s a budget-friendly option that proves comfort and capability can go hand-in-hand.
Honorable Mention:
While these five bikes offer a fantastic blend of power, comfort, and capability, it would be remiss not to mention two other strong contenders for your Ladakh adventure:
TVS Ronin
For first-timers tackling Ladakh, the new TVS Ronin is a stylish and comfortable companion. While it might not be the most rugged off-road machine, its modern features and fuel efficiency make it a compelling choice. The 225.9cc engine with SOHC technology packs enough punch (20.4 PS) to handle mountain roads while keeping things budget-friendly with a starting price of ₹1.49 lakhs. Plus, its impressive fuel efficiency lets you focus on the adventure, not gas stations.
Royal Enfield Bullet 350
The iconic Bullet 350’s timeless design and signature thump make it a popular choice for Ladakh trips. Its reliable 349cc engine (shared with the Classic 350) delivers steady power (20.21 PS) and torque (27 Nm), prioritizing durability and ease of maintenance – perfect for remote journeys. Plus, the base price starts at an attractive ₹1.65 Lakhs (ex-showroom), making it a budget-friendly choice for your Ladakh adventure.
Remember, the perfect bike for your Ladakh adventure depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors like riding experience, desired comfort level, budget, and the specific route you plan to take.