The Splendor and the YD125 employ 2.50x18in and 2.75x18in tyres front and rear and this reflects poorly on their handling. The original tyres of the Fiero were also not up to the mark so to get the bikes on an even platform we changed the tyres on all the bikes to 2.75x18in and 3.00x18in front and rear. MRF Zappers were our obvious choice. MRF reacted promptly to our request and all the bikes were fitted with the same. Of course it would be wrong to downgrade the CBZ from its 100/90x18in rear and therefore the CBZ was fitted with a MRF Zapper of the same size (as are OE on some CBZs) but with a slightly different tread pattern. Performance and Fuel Efficiency figures were however, observed with the tyres that came in as OE.
   
Apart from the CBZ the MRF Zappers we used made a marked difference in handling of the bikes. The YD125 benefited specially as we felt more confident. It now comes to the fore as one of the best handling bikes in this test. The Splendor is too soft and does not figure in the race at all. The Caliber is also well composed and holds a confident stance but for lack of Performance. It is only riding downhill that you can really enjoy the handling characteristics of the Caliber. Dynamically the bike just cries out for more horses. The other aspect that detracts from the fine handling of the Caliber is the ugly mattress that Bajaj Auto passes off as a motorcycle seat. If you aren't perched properly how well can you ride and enjoy what?
  
For those seeking a big bike feel the CBZ is the only choice. With its superlative ride, it is only in the handling that the weaknesses of the CBZ are laid bare. A disturbing aspect is its behaviour at high speeds particularly in crosswinds. Straight line stability is also suspect and it requires constant effort on the part of the rider to pilot it precisely at high speeds (of over 90kmph). The fat rear tyre also takes a little getting used to and the bike has a tendency to stand up. If you are thinking of going doubles on picnic it would be a good idea to pack in some balm for your pillion's knees and back. Anyway, who said a motorcycle was meant to be comfortable?
  
The front disc gives it a convincing edge in braking and that's reason enough to go in for the CBZ. Remember most motorcycle accidents happen because you can't stop in time. A best distance of 21.5 metres proves its braking superiority.
Handling preferences in a street bike are a matter of choice and the YD125 would get my vote were it not for the miserable tyres and brakes. Luckily the tyres we could change. In fact this went on further to highlight the weakness of the brakes.
  
In terms of ride the Fiero comes in second to the CBZ and the Caliber and the YD125 follow close. The Fiero is good to be astride solo but changes composure with a pillion as the rear squats low and the front end becomes too light. But then that is the price you pay for a short wheelbase bike. Other than that the Fiero handles very well be it in a straight line or fully banked. It just manages with drums front and rear but braking Performance and brake feel are quite up to the mark.
  
The Splendor disappointed us with its poor braking. Although On the Road it was adequate it felt quite handicapped on the track. One reason for the larger distance recorded could also be the added reaction time required for the Splendor. I had to hold the throttle wound up otherwise the speed would drop too suddenly below 60kmph, not allowing us to perform the brake test. Thus the time for releasing the throttle and jamming the brake also was added in to the overall braking distance. Another reason was the weight transfer characteristics of the bike. This caused the rear end of the bike to lock up too soon and we had to slightly release the pressure on the front brake to keep the bike in a straight line.