Q. I’d booked a Skoda Rapid AT this May, due for delivery by June-end. Now I’ve been informed by a representative from Skoda India that no AT vehicles are in production, and to expect the car only in July. Should I take a refund and go for the Honda City?
Mandar Shetye
A. Yes, we think you should go in for a refund because there is no reason why there should be such a long wait for the Rapid AT, which is hardly in demand. You could either switch to the Honda City AT which offers more features, comfort and efficiency, or choose the VW Vento TSI which has a new-generation 1.2 turbo-petrol and a brilliant 7-speed twin-clutch auto ’box. Also, the Vento is essentially the same car as the Rapid, but with a VW badge and superior powertrain.
Q. I’m confused between the new Honda Mobilio and Scorpio base version. Should I wait for the 2014 facelifted Scorpio?
Amit Desai
A.The Scorpio facelift is expected to be a big improvement over the current car and is certainly worth waiting for. However, the Mobilio, though not as robust as the Scorpio, will be more spacious, fuel efficient and easy to drive. Both these cars are quite different and serve different needs. The Mobilio is more of an urban family mover while the Scorpio is a car that’s better suited for rough and tough use and, in the long run, won’t be as economical to run as the Mobilio.
Q. I want to buy a bike and my options are Hero Xtreme and Honda Trigger. Kindly advice me in the following. My priorities are good mileage, resale value and looks.
Roy M. Thomas
A. Between the two bikes shortlisted by you, and keeping in mind your priorities of style, mileage and resale value, we suggest you go for the CB Trigger, a high quality bike from Honda.
Q. I am planning to buy my first bike and I am confused between the Hero Hunk and Bajaj Pulsar 200NS. I like the Pulsar 200NS, but I am not sure about the aftersales service. Can you advice me which bike to go for? Can you also offer some tips on how to ride the bike for the first 1000km?
Shamant Shetty
A. The Bajaj Pulsar 200NS makes for a superior motorcycle as compared to the Hero Hunk. You can go ahead and buy the bike without any reservations.
A proven way to run in your new bike is:
Ride slowly, keeping engine speeds to no more than 3000-4000rpm without stressing the engine for 500km.
Avoid riding long distances for the first 1000km.
Avoid riding with a pillion as far as possible within the first 500km.
Avoid riding up steep inclines as far as possible for the first 500km.
Gradually start pushing the bike towards higher rpm, at fixed intervals; for example, riding at engine speeds of up to 5000rpm from 500-700km, then to 6000rpm between 700-800km, 7000rpm for 800-900km and, finally, 8000rpm between 900-1000km.
Push the bike as hard as you can, even running it briefly up to its rev limit after you complete 1000km, and immediately have the engine-oil changed and oil-filter cleaned.
Your bike is now run in and ready for regular use.
Q. I am interested in buying a cruiser within the Rs 1-1.5 lakh budget and have chosen the Bajaj Avenger and Royal Enfield Bullet. Which one would you recommend?
Sagar Adroja
A. Yes, the Bajaj Avenger and Royal Enfield Bullet both make good options for you, as good cruiser bikes. Go for the Bajaj in the event you are looking for a faster performing, lighter handling motorcycle, or then the Royal Enfield in the event you prefer classic, retro styling and are looking for a more stable bike, with slightly heavier handling.
