After extensive test rides on several 400cc-class bikes, including the Speed 400, Harley X440, and Bajaj Dominar 400, I finally found my perfect match in the Hero Maverick 440. This bike effortlessly checks all the boxes for my daily commute, weekend highway cruises, and even occasional Himalayan adventures. Initially, the Speed 400 had caught my attention with its impressive performance and how craftily it was designed. However, the Maverick 440's exceptional balance of power, refinement, and comfort won me over. Notably, the Dominar was a strong contender for its long-ride capabilities, but the Maverick's overall package ultimately swayed my decision. One of the reasons I bought the Mavrick 440 is its incredibly smooth ride at 100 and 108-10 km/h. The bike's engine and chassis work in harmony to provide a comfortable, vibration-free experience that's perfect for long highway cruising. If I'm being honest, the one aspect that initially gave me pause was the Maverick's exhaust note, a deep, bassy thumper that's more music to my ears than a cacophony. In fact, it's grown on me to the point where I find myself looking forward to the acoustic experience every time I fire up the engine, and yes, it exudes a palpable big-bike presence. However, it's worth mentioning that Hero has made some compromises to keep costs in check. For instance: The pillion-foot guards are made of plastic and tend to bend easily. Hero has also missed console controls on the handlebars, which might be a drawback for some riders who prefer the convenience of having controls at their fingertips. For a wrap-up, the Hero Maverick 440 is an exemplary package that masterfully combines performance, comfort, and practicality. Whether you're a daily commuter or an adventure-seeker, this bike is sure to impress.