Choosing a new bike in India is not just about picking the one that looks the best in the showroom. You have to live with the mileage, seat comfort, service cost, traffic manners and the price you pay every month. A bike that feels exciting on a short test ride may not be the right choice for a 40-kilometre daily commute.
For this 2026 guide, we have shortlisted ten motorcycles for different kinds of riders—from practical 100–125cc commuters to sporty 160cc machines and relaxed 350cc roadsters. The list is not a claim that one bike is perfect for everyone; it is a practical shortlist based on everyday usability, performance, comfort, popularity and value.
Price note: Prices below are indicative ex-showroom starting prices or approximate ranges, not on-road quotes. They can vary by city, variant, colour, taxes and current offers. Mileage figures are indicative real-world estimates and will change with traffic, riding style, load, tyre pressure and maintenance. Confirm the exact variant, latest price and availability with an authorised dealer before booking.
Quick comparison: Top 10 bikes in India in 2026
| Bike | Approx. ex-showroom price | Engine | Indicative mileage | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Hero Splendor Plus | ₹79,000–₹85,000 | 97.2cc | 55–65 km/l | Low-cost daily commuting |
| 2. Honda SP 125 | ₹91,000–₹1.02 lakh | 123.9cc | 50–60 km/l | Refined everyday riding |
| 3. TVS Raider 125 | ₹90,000–₹1.05 lakh | 124.8cc | 45–55 km/l | Young riders who want features |
| 4. Hero Xtreme 125R | ₹92,000–₹1.10 lakh | 124.7cc | 45–55 km/l | Sporty styling and city use |
| 5. Bajaj Pulsar N160 | ₹1.25–₹1.50 lakh | 164.8cc | 40–50 km/l | Balanced performance and commuting |
| 6. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | ₹1.25–₹1.45 lakh | 159.7cc | 40–48 km/l | Sporty handling and features |
| 7. Yamaha R15 V4 | ₹1.85–₹2.10 lakh | 155cc | 40–50 km/l | Sport-bike looks and highway fun |
| 8. TVS Ronin | ₹1.35–₹1.75 lakh | 225.9cc | 35–42 km/l | Relaxed mixed-use riding |
| 9. Royal Enfield Hunter 350 | ₹1.40–₹1.75 lakh | 349.3cc | 30–36 km/l | Compact retro roadster feel |
| 10. Royal Enfield Classic 350 | ₹1.95–₹2.30 lakh | 349.3cc | 30–38 km/l | Classic styling and relaxed rides |
How to read this table: These are broad shopping estimates for 2026, not guaranteed quotations or certified mileage claims. Some models have multiple variants, and the cheapest variant may not include every feature mentioned in reviews. On-road cost includes registration, insurance and other local charges.
Infographic: Find the right bike for your riding style
1. Hero Splendor Plus — the sensible choice for everyday use
The Splendor Plus remains a natural starting point for anyone who needs a bike for office travel, college, errands or regular rides around town. Its appeal is straightforward: a small, familiar engine, manageable size and a long-established service network. It is not built to deliver thrilling acceleration, and that is precisely why it makes sense for riders who value predictable running costs over speed.
What works: Its light commuter character, accessible controls and practical ownership proposition. It is also a sensible option for first-time riders who do not need a large engine.
What to consider: Performance is modest, particularly with a pillion or on fast highways. The equipment and feel are simpler than those of newer premium 125cc motorcycles.
Best for: Daily commuters who want a straightforward petrol bike and care about fuel expenses. If your main priority is low-cost transportation, put the Splendor on your test-ride list.
2. Honda SP 125 — a polished 125cc commuter
The Honda SP 125 is worth considering if you want a commuter that feels a little more modern without jumping into a much larger engine class. Its 123.9cc engine and commuter-focused setup are suited to everyday city journeys, while its styling is sharper than that of a traditional basic commuter.
What works: A refined everyday character, useful performance for normal traffic and a good middle ground between economy and features. It can suit riders who commute through the week and occasionally take longer rides.
What to consider: The final price depends on the variant and local charges. Compare the equipment on the exact model you are buying rather than assuming all versions are identical.
Best for: Riders who want a sensible, polished 125cc bike for regular use.
3. TVS Raider 125 — for riders who want more personality
The Raider 125 gives the commuter category a more youthful feel. Its styling, riding position and feature-focused approach make it appealing to college students and younger buyers who want a practical bike that does not look too plain.
What works: A lively 125cc format, distinctive design and a useful balance of everyday usability and fun. It is compact enough for city riding while offering more character than a basic entry-level commuter.
What to consider: Features vary across versions, so compare the exact variant and its price. If you often ride with a pillion, take a proper test ride together and judge the seat comfort for yourself.
Best for: First-time buyers who want an economical-size bike with a sportier personality.
4. Hero Xtreme 125R — sporty looks without a big-engine budget
The Xtreme 125R is aimed at people who like the look of a streetfighter but still want a manageable 125cc motorcycle. Its sharper bodywork gives it a stronger road presence than many conventional commuter bikes.
What works: Sporty styling, city-friendly dimensions and a performance-oriented feel for the class. It is a useful option for riders who want something visually exciting for daily travel.
What to consider: Do not choose a bike based on appearance alone. Check the braking equipment on the selected variant, low-speed comfort, suspension response over broken roads and the availability of service nearby.
Best for: Young commuters who want a sporty design without moving to a 160cc or 200cc bike.
5. Bajaj Pulsar N160 — a strong all-rounder in the 160cc class
The Pulsar N160 is a good step up for riders who have outgrown a small commuter and want more confident performance for city roads and occasional highway stretches. Its 164.8cc engine sits in a useful middle ground: more punch than a 125cc bike without the size and cost of a much larger motorcycle.
What works: A balanced combination of everyday usability, muscular styling and stronger acceleration for overtakes. It can be a good one-bike solution for someone who commutes during the week and rides out on weekends.
What to consider: Fuel consumption will depend heavily on traffic and how enthusiastically you ride. Check which braking and display features are included in the variant within your budget.
Best for: Riders who want one motorcycle for work, errands and occasional longer trips.
6. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V — for a more engaging ride
The Apache RTR 160 4V is aimed at riders who enjoy a sharper, sportier riding experience. Its 159.7cc engine and street-bike format make it a rival worth comparing with the Pulsar N160, especially if you care about handling feel and available rider-focused features.
What works: Sporty character, a compact street-bike stance and a feature-rich approach in selected variants. It is more exciting than a basic commuter when the road opens up.
What to consider: A sporty setup is not automatically the most comfortable choice for every rider. Check wrist and knee position, suspension comfort on your usual roads and how easy the bike feels in stop-start traffic.
Best for: Riders who want an engaging city motorcycle and enjoy occasional spirited rides while staying within sensible limits.
7. Yamaha R15 V4 — for the sport-bike experience
The R15 V4 is the choice on this list for buyers who specifically want a fully faired sport-bike look and a more committed riding position. Its 155cc engine is paired with a design inspired by larger sport motorcycles, which is a major part of its appeal.
What works: Sporty styling, a focused riding experience and a package that feels special to riders who love the sport-bike format. It can be rewarding on open roads when ridden smoothly and responsibly.
What to consider: The forward-leaning posture can become tiring in dense traffic or on long, slow commutes. The purchase price and fairing repairs may also be higher than those of a simple commuter. Check the on-road cost carefully.
Best for: Enthusiasts who value sport-bike styling and handling more than relaxed ergonomics or the lowest possible running cost.
8. TVS Ronin — a relaxed option for mixed riding
The TVS Ronin sits between familiar categories. Its neo-retro styling and 225.9cc engine give it a different personality from a traditional commuter or fully faired sport bike. It is worth a look if your rides include city traffic, casual weekend outings and the occasional longer route.
What works: Distinctive styling, a relaxed roadster character and a versatile middleweight format. It offers a step up in engine capacity without going straight to a heavy 350cc motorcycle.
What to consider: It costs more to buy and run than a small commuter. Take a test ride on roads similar to yours and check how the handlebar, seat and footpegs feel after 20–30 minutes.
Best for: Riders who want a distinctive, relaxed motorcycle for mixed city and weekend use.
9. Royal Enfield Hunter 350 — a compact retro roadster
The Hunter 350 brings the Royal Enfield character into a relatively compact roadster package. Its 349cc engine gives it a different, more relaxed feel from the 125cc and 160cc bikes above. The design has strong retro appeal, but it is also intended to be approachable for urban riding.
What works: Retro styling, a characterful engine and a compact feel compared with some larger classic-styled motorcycles. It can suit riders who want a bike that feels at home outside the daily commute, too.
What to consider: It is heavier and generally thirstier than a small commuter, and moving it around in a tight parking space can take more effort. Check seat comfort, suspension behaviour on rough roads and the total ownership cost before choosing.
Best for: Riders who want a 350cc roadster for city use and weekend rides without the full classic-bike look.
10. Royal Enfield Classic 350 — for timeless styling and relaxed rides
The Classic 350 is for buyers who care about the feel and appearance of a traditional motorcycle. Its 349cc engine and classic design suit relaxed riding rather than hurried commuting. For many owners, the appeal is as much about the riding experience and styling as it is about reaching a destination.
What works: Traditional looks, a relaxed engine character and a strong road presence. It is an appealing choice for unhurried evening rides and weekend journeys.
What to consider: Its weight is noticeable at low speeds, and it will not be as economical as a 100–125cc commuter. Before buying, check whether you can comfortably reverse it, manoeuvre it in parking and manage it with a pillion.
Best for: Riders who value classic styling, a relaxed pace and the feel of a traditional 350cc motorcycle.
Which bike should you buy in 2026?
- For the lowest everyday running cost: Start with the Hero Splendor Plus and compare it with other commuter models available locally.
- For a practical 125cc all-rounder: Test ride the Honda SP 125 and TVS Raider 125 back-to-back.
- For sporty looks on a 125cc budget: Compare the Hero Xtreme 125R with the TVS Raider 125.
- For a balanced step up in performance: Compare the Bajaj Pulsar N160 and TVS Apache RTR 160 4V.
- For a fully faired sport bike: Consider the Yamaha R15 V4, but make sure its riding posture suits your commute.
- For relaxed weekend rides and retro styling: Test the TVS Ronin, Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and Classic 350.
What to check before booking a new bike
1. Calculate the on-road price
Ask the dealer for a written, itemised quote covering ex-showroom price, registration, insurance, accessories and any optional packages. Compare the same variant across dealers so that you are not comparing different equipment or add-ons.
2. Think about your daily distance
If you cover long distances every day, fuel efficiency and seat comfort may matter more than peak power. If you ride only occasionally, you may be happier paying more for the style and performance you actually enjoy.
3. Take a real test ride
Try the bike in slow traffic and over an uneven stretch, not only on a smooth road outside the showroom. Check whether you can reach the ground comfortably, turn the handlebar fully, use the brakes confidently and park the bike without strain. If you regularly carry a pillion, assess the rear seat as well.
4. Compare safety equipment
Check the exact variant for ABS, the number of ABS channels where applicable, tyre quality, lighting and braking feel. Wear a properly fitted, certified helmet every ride, fasten it securely and use protective riding gear. Never treat top speed as a measure of how good a bike is for everyday use.
5. Check service access and ownership costs
Look up the nearest authorised service centre, routine service schedule, warranty conditions and prices for common replacement parts. Ask about insurance renewal and tyre replacement costs too. A slightly cheaper purchase price may not be the best deal if servicing is inconvenient or expensive.
6. Do not rely on claimed mileage alone
Company or website mileage figures are useful for initial comparison, but your actual result will depend on traffic, road conditions, maintenance and riding style. Ask owners in your area about their experience, but treat individual reports as examples rather than guarantees.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best bike in India in 2026?
There is no single best bike for every rider. The Hero Splendor Plus is a sensible commuter choice, the Honda SP 125 is worth considering for a refined 125cc experience, the Pulsar N160 and Apache RTR 160 4V suit riders who want more performance, and the Hunter 350 or Classic 350 appeal to buyers who prefer retro styling and a larger engine.
Which bike is best for daily commuting?
For regular commuting, begin with a 100–125cc motorcycle such as the Splendor Plus, SP 125 or Raider 125. Compare fuel use, comfort, service access and the price of the exact variant you can afford.
Which bike gives the best mileage?
Small commuter motorcycles generally use less fuel than 160cc, 225cc or 350cc bikes. Real-world mileage varies, so use estimates as a guide and compare owner experiences for similar routes and riding conditions.
Is a 350cc bike good for daily use?
It can be, if you are comfortable with the weight, fuel costs and handling at low speeds. If your commute involves heavy traffic, tight parking or a long daily distance, take a proper test ride before choosing a Hunter 350 or Classic 350 over a lighter commuter.
Are the prices in this article on-road prices?
No. The prices are approximate ex-showroom estimates for comparison. On-road prices include registration, insurance and local charges, so the final amount will vary by city and variant.
Final verdict
The right bike is the one that fits your actual routine and budget, not necessarily the one with the biggest engine or the most aggressive styling. For affordable everyday travel, start with the Splendor Plus or SP 125. If you want more character, compare the Raider 125 and Xtreme 125R. For a sportier step up, ride the Pulsar N160 and Apache RTR 160 4V. And if weekend rides and retro design are what excite you, the Ronin, Hunter 350 and Classic 350 deserve a place on your shortlist.
Before paying a booking amount, confirm the current variant, ex-showroom price, on-road quotation and delivery timeline with an authorised dealer. Take a test ride, choose safety equipment carefully and buy the bike that feels right on the roads you actually use.
Useful official websites
- Hero MotoCorp — Splendor Plus and Xtreme range information.
- Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India — SP 125 specifications and dealer information.
- TVS Motor — Raider, Apache and Ronin details.
- Bajaj Auto — Pulsar range and official specifications.
- India Yamaha Motor — R15 range information.
- Royal Enfield India — Hunter 350 and Classic 350 details.
Editorial note: This guide is for general comparison, not a substitute for a dealer quotation or a test ride. Prices and specifications may change during the year; verify them before making a purchase.