If you’re thinking about buying a bike for the first time, it’s important to consider a few key factors: affordability, performance, design, and fuel efficiency. India offers a variety of options for first-time buyers looking for affordable and reliable bikes. In this post, we’ll discuss the 5 Best Affordable Bikes in India that not only fit your budget but also deliver great performance and style.
We’ll also compare these bikes with their older versions, highlight performance upgrades, and discuss their pros and cons. Let’s take a closer look at the top choices for first-time bike buyers in India.
Why Choose an Affordable Bike in India?
Before diving into the details of the 5 Best Affordable Bikes in India, let’s talk about why affordability is important. First-time bike buyers often have limited budgets, but they don’t want to compromise on quality. Affordable bikes offer:
- Fuel efficiency: These bikes are designed to save on fuel costs, which is great for everyday commuting.
- Low maintenance: With simple engines and reliable parts, these bikes are easy to maintain.
- User-friendly design: Ideal for beginners, the design and handling are straightforward.
- Resale value: Affordable bikes generally hold good resale value in the market.
Now, let’s explore the 5 Best Affordable Bikes in India for first-time buyers.
1. Honda CB Shine
Engine and Performance
The Honda CB Shine is a popular choice for first-time bike buyers. With a 124cc engine, it’s designed to offer smooth and comfortable rides. The bike provides good power for both city rides and highway cruising. It’s perfect for beginners, thanks to its user-friendly design and smooth handling.
- Engine: 124cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder
- Max Power: 10.74 bhp
- Max Torque: 11 Nm
- Fuel Efficiency: 65 km/l
Design and Features
The Honda CB Shine has a sleek design with a well-crafted body that appeals to new riders. It features a stylish fuel tank and a comfortable seat. The bike is available in multiple color options, making it easy to pick a model that suits your style.
Features:
- Digital instrument console
- Modern graphics
- Stylish alloy wheels
Price
The price of the Honda CB Shine starts at around ₹79,000 (Ex-Showroom Price).
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great mileage and fuel efficiency | Lacks advanced features |
| Comfortable ride | Limited power for highways |
| Easy maintenance | Slightly higher price compared to some competitors |
Expert Opinion
The Honda CB Shine is a great bike for beginners who want a reliable and affordable option. While it might not have advanced features, its simplicity and fuel efficiency make it an ideal choice for city commuting.
2. Bajaj Pulsar 125
Engine and Performance
The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is another excellent bike for first-time buyers. It offers a 124.4cc engine, delivering strong power for its class. The Pulsar 125 is designed for riders who want both style and performance without breaking the bank.
- Engine: 124.4cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder
- Max Power: 11.64 bhp
- Max Torque: 10.8 Nm
- Fuel Efficiency: 50-55 km/l
Design and Features
With its aggressive and sporty design, the Bajaj Pulsar 125 stands out. It comes with a sharp headlamp, muscular tank, and stylish graphics that give it a modern and bold look.
Features:
- LED tail light
- Digital instrument cluster
- Front disc brake
Price
The price of the Bajaj Pulsar 125 starts at around ₹79,000 (Ex-Showroom Price).
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sporty design and looks | Comparatively lower mileage |
| Reliable performance | Slightly heavier than other bikes |
| Good resale value | Lacks advanced features |
Expert Opinion
The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is an excellent choice for first-time buyers who are looking for performance along with stylish design. It’s perfect for daily use and occasional long rides.
3. TVS Raider 125
Engine and Performance
The TVS Raider 125 is a stylish and powerful bike for first-time riders. It comes with a 124.8cc engine that offers good power while maintaining fuel efficiency.
- Engine: 124.8cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder
- Max Power: 11.38 bhp
- Max Torque: 11.2 Nm
- Fuel Efficiency: 65 km/l
Design and Features
The TVS Raider 125 features a bold, modern design with sharp lines and a sleek tank. Its unique styling makes it stand out from the crowd. The bike also comes with a fully digital instrument cluster.
Features:
- LED headlamp and tail lamp
- Fully digital display
- Dual-tone graphics
Price
The price of the TVS Raider 125 starts at around ₹85,000 (Ex-Showroom Price).
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good mileage and performance | Heavy for some riders |
| Stylish design | No front telescopic suspension |
| Comfortable ride | Limited service centers in some areas |
Expert Opinion
The TVS Raider 125 offers a great balance of performance and style. It’s perfect for young riders who want a bike that looks good and performs well without being too expensive.
4. Hero Splendor Plus
Engine and Performance
The Hero Splendor Plus is known for its reliability and low maintenance. It’s an ideal bike for first-time buyers looking for something budget-friendly with decent performance. The 97.2cc engine delivers enough power for city commuting.
- Engine: 97.2cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder
- Max Power: 7.91 bhp
- Max Torque: 8.05 Nm
- Fuel Efficiency: 70 km/l
Design and Features
The Hero Splendor Plus has a simple design with a classic look. It’s available in multiple colors and comes with a comfortable seat and ergonomic handlebars.
Features:
- Simple analog instrument cluster
- Comfortable ride quality
- Alloy wheels
Price
The price of the Hero Splendor Plus starts at around ₹75,000 (Ex-Showroom Price).
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great mileage and fuel efficiency | Basic features |
| Affordable price | Lacks modern design |
| Low maintenance | Limited power for long rides |
Expert Opinion
The Hero Splendor Plus is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an affordable, low-maintenance bike with good fuel efficiency. It may not have fancy features, but its reliability is a big plus for first-time riders.
5. Suzuki Gixxer 155
Engine and Performance
The Suzuki Gixxer 155 is a stylish and powerful bike that’s a bit more premium than the others on this list. It comes with a 155cc engine, delivering a good mix of power and fuel efficiency.
- Engine: 155cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder
- Max Power: 13.4 bhp
- Max Torque: 13.8 Nm
- Fuel Efficiency: 45-50 km/l
Design and Features
The Suzuki Gixxer 155 is known for its bold, aggressive styling. It features sharp lines, a muscular tank, and a modern headlamp design. It’s a great option for riders looking for a sportier look.
Features:
- LED headlamp and tail lamp
- Digital instrument cluster
- Dual exhaust system
Price
The price of the Suzuki Gixxer 155 starts at around ₹1,19,000 (Ex-Showroom Price).
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Aggressive sporty design | Higher price compared to others |
| Good performance | Average fuel efficiency |
| Comfortable handling | Slightly heavier for beginners |
Expert Opinion
The Suzuki Gixxer 155 is a great option for first-time riders who want a sporty look and powerful engine performance. It’s a bit more expensive, but if you’re looking for something that offers a good balance of performance and style, this is a solid choice.
Conclusion: Which is the Best Affordable Bike in India for First-Time Buyers?
In summary, all the bikes listed above are excellent choices for first-time buyers. Each offers unique features, performance, and pricing, so it ultimately depends on your preferences.
- Honda CB Shine: Best for fuel efficiency and low maintenance.
- Bajaj Pulsar 125: A great balance of power and style.
- TVS Raider 125: A perfect bike for those who love modern design and performance.
- Hero Splendor Plus: Ideal for those on a tight budget who need reliability.
- Suzuki Gixxer 155: For those who want a sportier bike with great power.
We hope this guide helps you find the 5 Best Affordable Bikes in India for first-time buyers. Make sure to test ride the bikes before making your decision and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
| Bike Model | Engine (cc) | Max Power (bhp) | Fuel Efficiency (km/l) | Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CB Shine | 124cc | 10.74 | 65 | ₹79,000 |
| Bajaj Pulsar 125 | 124.4cc | 11.64 | 50-55 | ₹79,000 |
| TVS Raider 125 | 124.8cc | 11.38 | 65 | ₹85,000 |
| Hero Splendor Plus | 97.2cc | 7.91 | 70 | ₹75,000 |
| Suzuki Gixxer 155 | 155cc | 13.4 | 45-50 | ₹1,19,000 |
