Over the past four months, I've dedicated significant time to researching motorcycles, as I'm looking to purchase one for myself. Being relatively new to this segment, I undertook a comprehensive exploration of bikes ranging from 160cc to 400cc, with a specific set of requirements in mind.

I'm 26, 167cm tall and weigh 70kg. My daily ride would vary anywhere between 40 to 60 km and I'm from Chennai. Whichever I choose I would like to take her for occasional long rides. A sustained mileage of 35 is more than enough for me.

Throughout my research, I sampled a variety of bikes and identified specific deal-breakers for each:

1. Yamaha MT15 (2.05L): Disqualified due to its displacement and limited pillion space.

2. Bajaj Pulsar N160 (1.58L): Concerns arose regarding engine displacement and doubts about the longevity of the Bajaj engine.

3. Hero Xpulse 200 4V (1.76L): Noted for heating issues.

4. TVS Apache RTR 200 (1.76L): Although there were no glaring issues, TVS's reputation for cost-cutting raised some doubts.

5. Ronin 225 (2.0L): Similar concerns to the TVS Apache.

6. Bajaj Pulsar N250 (1.8L): Apart from the question of engine longevity, there were no significant drawbacks.

7. Dominar 250 (2.17L): Disqualified due to its weight.

8. Royal Enfield Hunter 350 (1.98L): Cited for issues concerning build quality, subpar wiring, heaviness, and poor mileage.

9. Speed 400 (2.67L): Slightly exceeding my budget, with concerns about mileage.

After exhaustive research, I leaned toward the new Bajaj platform and was almost ready to book the Bajaj Pulsar N250. However, news of Honda's re-launch of three bikes caught my attention:

1. Honda Hornet 2.0 (1.68L): Eliminated due to the absence of dual-channel ABS.

2. Honda CB200X (1.76L): Also excluded for lacking dual-channel ABS.

3. Honda CB300F (2.02L): This model piqued my interest due to its aesthetics, despite encountering negative online reviews. Critics primarily pointed to engine vibrations, stating that it lacked Honda's usual refinement and felt like a diluted 300cc machine.

To address these doubts, I visited a Honda Big Wing dealership in my vicinity and test-rode a 2022 model of the Honda CB300F. Unfortunately, during the entire test ride, I was keenly aware of vibrations, noticeable from 2k to 6k RPM, particularly around the fuel tank area. These vibrations intensified as the speed increased, compelling me to upshift every time the speedometer climbed by 10kmph. In contrast, my previous experience with the Bajaj N250 had been smooth and tractable, allowing me to comfortably maintain speeds as low as 15kmph in 3rd gear.

The sales representative at the Big Wing dealership suggested I wait and test ride the new models when they arrive, as he believed the vibration issue may have been addressed. I also favour the ergonomic design of the Honda CB300F over the Bajaj N250.

Now, I find myself in a dilemma, contemplating the crucial decision of choosing a motorcycle that could potentially be my sole ride for the next decade.