Looking back at the best big-displacement bike launches of the year

For nearly two decades, the motorcycle industry was capped with an engine displacement limit that permitted the registration of bikes of only up to 165cc. This meant that while neighbouring countries received flagship bikes of all the premium brands, motorcycle enthusiasts in Bangladesh could barely receive anything beyond a sports commuter.

In September of 2023, the government of Bangladesh finally relaxed this restriction to allow for bikes of up to 350cc. The catch however, was that only those bikes beyond the 165cc limit, which were locally manufactured were allowed to be ridden on the streets.

This meant, it took the already established brands quite a while before they could start offering their higher displacement variants or for new variants to enter the market. Hence, it was only in 2024, that market started seeing the new bigger-engined two wheelers, marking this year to be quite special to be a bike enthusiast. Among them all, here are three of the best big displacement bikes in Bangladesh officially launched in 2024.

Royal Enfield Hunter 350

PHOTO: Collected

The Hunter 350 is the most budget friendly Royal Enfield offered in Bangladesh. However, it still proves to be a statement on two wheels, blending classic charm with a fresh attitude.

At its core lies a 350cc air-cooled engine that delivers 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. That's enough performance to make every ride enjoyable, whether you're weaving through city streets or cruising along open highways. After all, these are bikes which are built not for breaking records but to provide the urban explorer who craves style as much as substance.

Weighing in at 181 kg, the bike comes with dual-channel ABS, making it more of a safe highway cruiser than an agile commuter in traffic. However, if you want one Royal Enfield for all applications, the Hunter seems to provide the best balance of form and function.

Priced at Tk 3,65,000, the Hunter is available in bold rebel Blue, red, or black. It is the cheapest 350cc model currently available in the market. However, given the model's immense popularity, if you plan to order one now, chances are you're not receiving yours before 2026.

Specifications:

Engine: 349.34cc Single Cylinder, Air-Oil Cooled, 4-Stroke, SOHC

Transmission: 5-speed

Power: 20.2 bhp at 6,500 rpm

Torque: 27 Nm at 4,000 rpm

Price: Tk3,40,000

Suzuki Gixxer 250 and SF250

PHOTO: Collected

At first glance, the Gixxer 250 and its faired sibling, the Gixxer SF250, resemble their 150cc counterparts. However, a closer look will reveal a more muscular design.

Powering the bigger Gixxers is a 249cc single-cylinder oil-cooled engine, delivering a maximum power of 26.1 bhp at 9,300 rpm and 22.2 Nm of maximum torque at 7,300 rpm. Suzuki markets the engine to be the most powerful in the segment.

Key upgrades from the 150 series include a larger 300mm front disc brake, wider MRF Revz FC tyres (110mm front, 150mm rear), a reverse LCD cluster, and squared-off exhausts.

In real world tests, despite weighing up to 161 kg, the low engine placement enhances agility, making them easy to handle in traffic. The long gear ratio reveals its power beyond 5,000 rpm, offering a thrilling ride.

The models also feature dual-channel ABS and comfortable ergonomics with sporty touches, catering to both urban commutes and spirited rides.

Priced at Tk 3,99,950 for the Gixxer 250 and Tk 4,64,950 for the Gixxer SF 250, the series is offered in matte blue, matte black for both models and exclusive MotoGP-themed limited editions for the SF.

Specifications:

Engine: 249cc single cylinder oil-cooled

Transmission: 6-speed

Power: 26.5 PS at 9,300 rpm

Torque: 22.2 Nm at 7,300 rpm

Price: 

Gixxer 250: Tk3,99,950

Gixxer SF 250: Tk4,49,950

CF Moto 300SR

PHOTO: Collected

The 300SR is one of the latest additions to the motorcycle industry of Bangladesh, with the brand debut of CF Moto on 19th December 2024.

In terms of visuals, the CF Moto is arguably one of the more aggressive sports bikes in the segment. Unlike other models, this flagship model from CF Moto went with the curvy and flowy lines. In my opinion, the design does look a little dated but the fabulous white paint job makes up for it.

Powering the 300SR is a performance-oriented  298cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled EFI engine. Paired to a 6-speed transmission, it generates a maximum of 30 bhp at 9,500 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm– arguably one of the highest power figures of any brand new bike in Bangladesh till now.

To control this power however, all 300SR comes with dual-channel ABS which ensures superior braking. To further add to its handling, the seating position has been made to be sporty and comes with USD suspension as standard.

All these and this current flagship model of CF Moto is priced at only Tk4,85,500, making this a great value for money option for bike enthusiasts.

Specifications:

Engine: 298cc Single cylinder, 4 stroke, DOHC, 4 valves

Transmission: 6-speed

Power: 30 bhp at 9,500 rpm

Torque: 27 Nm at 6,500 rpm

Price: Tk4,85,500