Bikes are traditionally commuter-focused machines in India, where they are used for mobility more than for leisure. But every generation had aspirational bikes, and let’s have a look at some of them:
Grandfather’s Generation:
For the older generation, bikes weren’t only aspirational but were a symbol of prosperity. Owning a motorcycle in those days was rare. The most iconic and aspirational motorcycles of those times were:
OG Royal Enfield Bullet
The Bullet was the undisputed king of the road. No other bike commanded as much respect. If one owned a Bullet back then, they were considered almost like a royalty.
Yezdi Road King
The Yezdi Road King had a two-stroke engine with twin exhausts, which made the eyes turn because of its distinctive sound. The Road King had a great racing pedigree and was the undisputed king in Indian rallies and races.
Father’s Generation:
Our fathers’ generation was the time when manufacturers started to make motorcycles affordable for the mass market. The motorcycle culture was picking up and becoming common.
Yamaha RX 100
The RX 100 was punchy and a lightweight bike, which made it exciting to ride. And it was relatively attainable. All of this made it quite aspirational in its day.
Suzuki Shogun
The Shogun had insane performance for its time – 14PS, which made it quick. And then there was its exhaust note, which was considered sporty by many. And even it didn’t cost a lot of money. Its craze hasn’t yet faded for the modern two-stroke enthusiasts
Current Generation:
The current generation is experiencing an era motorcycling unseen yet. This is a generation for whom the 40PS club isn’t out of reach. Yet, there are two bikes that still many would want to have in their garage:
KTM 390 Duke
The KTM 390 Duke is one of the most aspirational bikes of this generation. It has mad performance, and is an attainable dream.
Aprilia RS457
The Aprilia RS 457 has a racing pedigree, and a powerful twin cylinder engine. Its Italian brand and the RSV4-inspired looks make it a bike worth saving for, for a lot of motorcyclists.
Future Generation:
The future generation will experience motorcycles which are more advanced than the current petrol-powered bikes. Hybrid engines are already being experimented – the Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid. The brand is also trying its hand at hydrogen power with a Ninja H2-based prototype. Then there’s the ever-evolving EV tech. Likes of the Ultraviolette Automotive are constantly pushing the boundaries of what electric bikes can do – right from the F77 to the Shockwave. The future generation of motorcyclists might just experience bikes that we can’t think of right now.
