The overall aesthetics of the Platina have remained unchanged ever since it was launched in 2006. The design, inspired by the long-discontinued Wind 125, has managed to stay relevant till date. The motorcycle retains the quadrilateral-shaped headlamp, crease-less fuel tank and the long, sweeping tail section. However, a keen eye can spot a few add-ons on the H-Gear. The fuel-tank carries a golden 3D ‘Platina’ logo which adds a little bling to the styling and it gets a quilt pattern seat as well, bearing an embossed ‘Comfortec’ logo at the rear. And finally, there is the blacked out crank case on the H-Gear which is otherwise finished in silver. Although the sales figures speak of the acceptability for the Platina’s design, an aesthetic revamp would make it all the more desirable.

The H-Gear-exclusive elements go beyond aesthetics and this model now gets a semi-digital instrument cluster. Sitting beside the analogue speedometer is a puny digital display consisting of a clock, fuel meter, odometer, a trip meter and, a gear position indicator along with a gear shift guide which, in essence, is an arrow suggesting upshifts/downshifts depending on the speed. The console is neatly laid out and is easy to read on the go. Yet another first-for-Platina feature is an optional 240mm disc brake which works in tandem with Anti-Skid Braking (CBS) system. In bid to keep prices reasonable, Bajaj has opted for a mechanical setup over a hydraulic CBS. There’s a plastic cowl over the front brake lever to cover this mechanical CBS setup, which plays spoilsport to the front fascia of the bike.

Swinging a leg over the saddle of the Platina is no tough affair, given its 807mm seat height. Once settled, you are in a position which is ideal for hours of riding. The positioning of the handlebar and footpegs make sure that there’s no stress on the arms and legs while the adequately soft cushion keeps your waist happy.

The Bajaj Platina has always been acclaimed for its impressive mileage. Bajaj claims that the real-world fuel efficiency of the Platina 110 H-Gear ranges between 70-75kmpl, provided you ride it in a sane manner and obey the gear shift guide. Now, with the addition of extra bells and whistles, and the fifth gear, the motorcycle appears to hold more value. The plush ride quality ensures a smooth ride on our battered roads, the frugal engine looks after the mileage, ASB braking assures optimum safety and the highway gear makes it easier to do both intercity and intracity runs. Priced at Rs 53,376 (drum brakes) and Rs 55,373 (front disc) (both are ex-showroom, Delhi), the Bajaj Platina 110 H-Gear is on the affordable side of the spectrum.