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S. Muralidhar

IN the four-stroke, 100cc two-wheeler segment, which bike generates more power and is preferable for use in both hilly terrain as well as regular city riding. I am wondering if the Victor will fulfil my requirement? -- MAHENDRAN.M

For a two-wheeler to perform effectively in a hilly terrain, while it continues to offer ride quality and fuel efficiency similar to city riding conditions, the number to look out for is not the bike's peak power rating, but its peak torque rating and its torque delivery curve.

The TVS Victor GL may satisfy your requirements to some extent. With its high torque of 8.1Nm at a relatively low 5,500 rpm, its econometer that automatically enables the rider to choose between two modes — economy and power — and its 110cc engine that pumps out 8.1bhp of peak power, the Victor can potentially suit your usage pattern.

The TVS Victor boasts of rugged build and higher safety features, including the rectangular swing arm, and at the same time offers styling and fit-and-finish quality, which are on a par with other bikes in the same class.

The large headlamp with powerful 35W lighting will be useful on hilly roads that may not be well lit. Further, the 3.0X18 rear tyre will offer better road grip, especially if you have to tackle a number of hairpin bends.

A bike that offers similar power and torque numbers, nearly the same ergonomic features (what may be missing is the bikini fairing and the side panels may be slimmer) and similar benefits in terms of electricals and build is the Bajaj CT 100.

Though the peak power and torque output of the CT 100 is the same as in the Victor, the former's engine features unique construction enables it to offer loads of low-end torque.

Low-end torque could be crucial in your case with extensive usage in hilly terrain.

Low-end torque enhances the bike's performance, and results in a reduction in the number of times that a lower gear needs to be engaged, and eventually shows up in higher mileage numbers.

What is even better, the Bajaj CT 100 comes with a price tag that is lower than the Victor GL by about Rs 9,000. The only replacement you may require on the CT 100 is a 3.0X18 tyre (to enhance road grip), instead of the 2.75X18 that comes as part of standard fitment. The CT 100's wheelbase is about 25mm longer than the Victor, and it weighs about 4 kg less.

I am planning to buy a car and my budget is about Rs 4 lakh. I have checked out the details of the Alto LXi and the Santro Xing. This is going to be my first car and I have just learnt driving.

I plan to use this for commuting to my office everyday and on weekend trips. Which will be the better of the two? As it is my first car, is it safe to buy such expensive cars?

GAYATHRI.V

As your budget can stretch up to Rs 4 lakh, the better option between the two will be the Hyundai Santro Xing. The Suzuki Alto LXi only features the Maruti 800's MPFI engine with a five-speed gearbox. The Alto VXi is slightly better. With the Wagon R's 1.1 litre engine, this variant will be closer to the Santro Xing in terms of comfort, engine power and air-conditioner effectiveness.

But the Santro Xing's fit and finish quality, larger interior space and powerful headlamps will be handy, especially if you are new to driving cars.

The Santro's tall-boy design will also be a big plus for women, both because entry and exit is much easier and also due to the fact that the higher seating position, combined with the shorter bonnet, gives the driver excellent visibility of the road.

The Santro XP will be within your overall budget of Rs 4 lakh (excluding dealer discounts and add-ons). For the same price, the Alto VXi will offer more features such as body coloured bumpers, power windows, rear wiper and washer, to name a few. You have to make a trade-off between these features of the Alto VXi and the inherent benefits of the Santro XP.

(Queries may be sent to: q&a@thehindu.co.in or by post to Q&A, Business Line, 859/860, Kasturi Buildings, Anna Salai, Chennai - 600 002.)

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