KTM RC390 or Honda CBR 250R

My budget stands at Rs 2 lakh only and I am looking to purchase my first motorcycle, with the following few requirements. My daily commute would be around 25km. I would also ride long distances once in a while, say about 300km. The bike should be quick and comfortable and it should also turn heads. By the look of it, I feel the KTM RC390 or the Honda CBR 250R should make good motorcycles. After riding the KTM 390 Duke I did find it to be a bit uncomfortable. Could you please help me weigh the pros and cons?
Ninad Tarare, via email

AAA While the KTM RC390 is a far superior motorcycle than the Honda CBR 250R, we suggest you steer clear, reason being the valid point you raised – finding the 390 Duke’s riding position to be uncomfortable, which it is. The RC390 riding position is even more aggressive, thus less comfortable than the Duke’s, which you may have failed to pick up in just a short test ride, but is present. This
brings us to the next best option, perhaps not as powerful as the 390, but a more comfortable bike you will be happy on in urban, as well as the occasional highway conditions – the Pulsar AS 200.