Mileage or fuel efficiency is the top feature that everyone considers while planning to buy a new bike for the daily commute. Why do Indian youngsters choose budget bikes? The increased fuel prices make them choose the best fuel-efficient bike rather than its look and style.
Here is the list of the top five Indian low-cost, fuel-efficient bikes, which are best in class, too, with style and performance. They are under Rs. 100,000 and offer greater mileage too.
Indian motorcycle market and the demand for affordable options
The Indian motorcycle market is the largest in the world. In 2022 close to 16.2 million motorcycles were sold, which is 13.2% more than in 2021, thanks to the introduction of electric scooters. Affordable bikes are in significant demand in tier 3 and tier 4 locations. The cost-conscious buyers and looking for reliable as well as reasonably priced bikes.
India is flooded with budget-friendly motorcycle models, with all the manufacturers offering bikes between Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 70,000. These bikes are powered by smaller engines (100 ccs) and come with basic features to contain the cost. Nonetheless, they are perfect for daily commutes and could carry reasonably good loads too.
The competition is so fierce in this segment that motorcycle manufacturers offer a lot on a tight budget, where people are the winners.
The cost of electric bikes is a bit high as of now. But soon, we might see many manufacturers offering affordable electric bikes.
Overview of the 10 cheapest motorcycle models available in India for 2023
1. Bajaj Platina 100 – Country’s Most Affordable Bike
Price (Ex. Showroom) Bajaj Platina 100
Mumbai: Rs. Rs. 52,166
Delhi: Rs. 52,915
Launched by Bajaj way back in 2006, the entry-level bike Platina is the most affordable bike in Bajaj’s line-up targeted at buyers who are looking for a hassle-free commuter motorcycle. Since its launch, it has been popular among riders both in India and outside because of its presentation and reduced cost. Bajaj Platina 100cc is a stylish, low-cost product that leaves up to the tradition of Bajaj Auto of being highly efficient to the last drop of fuel.
Powered by a four-stroke, 102 cc, single-cylinder engine, the Bajaj Platina has the highest of 8.2 bhp power and torque of 0.82kgm. Equipped with eye catchy and attractive design, chrome graphics, and some other features like alloy wheels, which were not seen before on a commuter bike, Bajaj Platina is the best buy in the 100cc segment due to its stupendous mileage and outstanding performance.
Bajaj Platina 100 Specifications
Engine Capacity | 102 cc |
Engine Type | 4-Stroke, DTS-i, Single Cylinder |
Max Power | 7.9 PS @ 7500 rpm |
Max Torque | 8.3 Nm @ 5500 rpm |
Mileage | 73.5 kmpl |
Transmission | 4 Speed Manual |
Kerb Weight | 117 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 litres |
Seat Height | 807 mm |
2. Bajaj CT 100 – A Perfect Daily Commuter
Price (Ex. Showroom) Bajaj CT 100
Mumbai: Rs. 59,110
Delhi: Rs. 59,104
With some additional features, the home-grown automaker Bajaj Auto has re-launched its most affordable motorbike, Bajaj CT 100. It is a 115.45 cc entry-level bike that targets the value for money-conscious young buyers. The CT 100 replaced Bajaj’s popular Boxer; however, the same was discontinued in 2006. Available in two variants – spoke and alloy- it combines excellent design, high mileage, a powerful engine, and new-age technology. Powering the bike is a 115.45 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine mated to a 4-speed transmission capable of churning out 8.48 bhp power and 8.34 Nm @ 5500 rpm peak torque. It boasts of a top speed of 90 kmph and a mind-blowing mileage figure of 89.5 km pl.
Bajaj CT 100 Specifications
Engine Capacity | 115.45 cc |
No. of Cylinders | 1 |
Max Power | 7.9 PS @ 7500 rpm |
Max Torque | 8.34 Nm @ 5500 rpm |
Mileage | 70 kmpl |
Transmission | 4 Speed Manual |
Kerb Weight | 118 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 10.5 litres |
Seat Height | 810 mm |
3. Hero HF Dawn/Deluxe – An Affordable and Fuel-Efficient Bike
Price (Ex. Showroom)
Mumbai: Rs. 54,962
Delhi: Rs. 59,990
HF Dawn is Hero MotoCorp’s entry-level bike has a stable presence in the market for a long time. It best suits the tagline ‘Public Ka Apna Transport’, being one of the most affordable bikes for the common man in India. HF Dawn was launched in 2002 with the name – Hero Honda Dawn, later CD Dawn, and now known as HF Dawn.
One of India’s most-sold bikes, Hero HF Dawn, comes with many excellent features. Powered by a 97.2cc, air-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine with a four-speed gearbox, HF Dawn is known for great engine performance and comfortable ride. It can reach 0 to 60 KMPH in merely 7.8 seconds from a standstill with a top speed of around 90kmph. Despite a limited budget, Hero has managed to offer an impressive design to the bike, available in five colors including black & purple, candy blazing red, black with red, classy maroon metallic and boon silver metallic.
Hero HF Dawn/Deluxe Specifications
Engine Capacity | 97.2 cc |
Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, OHC |
No. of Cylinders | 1 |
Max Power | 8.36 PS @ 8000 rpm |
Max Torque | 8.05 Nm @ 5000 rpm |
Mileage | 65 kmpl |
Transmission | 4 Speed Manual |
Kerb Weight | 110 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 9.1 litres |
Seat Height | 805 mm |
4. TVS Sport – A Sportier Bike
Price (Ex. Showroom) Drum Kick and Spoke
Mumbai: Rs. 61,500
Delhi: Rs.63,990
Targeted for the mileage-conscious commuter buyers, TVS Sport is an entry-level, stylish 100 cc commuter bike, equipped with features like enticing looks, refined engine, excellent mileage, outstanding performance and above all, low cost. Borrowing the styling features from its sibling, the Star City such as stylish graphics all over the body of the bike, TVS Sport has got a sporty yet elegant look. Given its technical specifications, TVS Sport is powered by a 109.7 cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine, which can churn out a power of 8.29 PS @ 7350 rpm and a torque of 8.7 Nm @ 4500 rpm. The classic TVS Sport has an affordable price range of INR 46,074 to 49,392.
TVS Sport Specifications
Engine Capacity | 109.7 cc |
Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4 Stroke, air cooled engine |
No. of Cylinders | 1 |
Max Power | 8.29 PS @ 7350 rpm |
Max Torque | 8.7 Nm @ 4500 rpm |
Mileage | 70 kmpl |
Transmission | 4 Speed Manual |
Kerb Weight | 112 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 10 litres |
Seat Height | 790 mm |
5. TVS Star City Plus
Price (Ex. Showroom) Drum Kick and Spoke
Mumbai: Rs. 73,358 (dual tone drum)
Delhi: Rs.75,890 (dual tone drum)
TVS Star City Plus is a commuter motorcycle with modern amenities. It is fitted with an LED headlight, has a fuel-injected engine, and has a USB charger. Even the most modern bikes lack some of the features present in this bike.
It is fitted with a 109.7 cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, air-cooled engine that produces a peak torque of 8.7 Nm @ 4500 rpm and a maximum power of 8.19 PS @ 7350 rpm. The 4-speed gearbox works smoothly and to the satisfaction of the rider.
One could feel the absence of a trip meter and side-stand indicator (which could prevent many accidents).
TVS Star City Plus Specifications
Engine Capacity | 109.7 cc |
Max Power | 8.19 PS @ 7350 rpm |
Max Torque | 8.7 NM @ 4500 rpm |
Mileage | 68 kmpl |
Transmission | 4 Speed Manual |
Kerb Weight | 115 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 10 litres |
Seat Height | 785 mm |
6. Bajaj CT 125X
Price (Ex. Showroom)
Mumbai: Rs. 71,930
Delhi: Rs. 75,277
The Bajaj CT 125X is powered by a 124.4cc 4-stroke DTSi engine with a peak power of 10.9 Ps@ 8000 rpm and a maximum torque of 11 Nm @ 5500 rpm. The belly pan below the engine safeguards it on rough roads. Tubeless tyres give confidence to the rider to drive even in rough terrain. USB charging, which is not present even on expensive bikes, is present in CT 125X. The carrier is strong enough to carry heavy items when required.
The design of the bike is similar to its sibling CT 110X. However, analogue instrument cluster, halogen headlight, beautiful turn indicators, and taillight gives it a premium look.
Bajaj CT 125X Specifications
Engine Type | 4 stroke, Air-cooled Single cylinder, SOHC, DTSi |
Engine Capacity | 124.4 cc |
Transmission | 5 Speed Manual |
Kerb Weight | 130 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 litres |
Seat Height | 810 mm |
Max Power | 10.9 Ps@ 8000 rpm |
Max. Torque | 11 Nm @ 5500 rpm |
Frame Structure | Square tube, semi-double cradle |
Wheels | Alloy wheel – Tubeless type |
Front Suspension | Telescopic , Stroke 125 mm |
Rear Suspension | SNS , Stroke 100 mm |
7. TVS Radeon
Price (Ex. Showroom)
Mumbai: Rs. 71,958
Delhi: Rs. 78,414
All new TVS Radeon has 15% more mileage and has improved stability. It can start in all conditions, even in cold months. Due to the improved refinement of the engine, its performance improved significantly. The Digi cluster gives out real-time mileage on a display console through which one can control mileage based on the different riding conditions. The pillion grabrail could carry heavy loads when required. The SBT brake technology could stop the vehicle when needed. The bike comes in 3 colors, dt blue-black, dt red-black, and black. The bike is powered by a 109.7 cc four-stroke dura-life engine with a maximum power of 6.03 kW (8.08 bhp) @7350 rpm.
TVS Radeon Specifications
Engine Type | 4 Stroke Dura-life Engine |
Engine Capacity | 109.7 cc |
Mileage | 65 kmpl |
Transmission | 4 Speed Manual |
Kerb Weight | 116 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 10 litres |
Max Power | 8.19 PS @ 7350 rpm |
Max. torque | 8.7 Nm @ 4500 rpm |
Fuel Tank | 10 Litres |
Ignition type | ECU |
Ground Clearance | 180 mm |
Wheel Base | 1265 mm |
8. Honda CD 110 Dream
Price (Ex. Showroom)
Mumbai: Rs. 72,245
Delhi: Rs. 71,133
The bike is fitted with a 110cc BS-VI Engine based on Honda’s eSP technology (Enhanced Smart Power). The eSP tech reduces friction, maximizing the bike’s performance and enhancing fuel efficiency. The ACG starter motor gives a silent starting experience. A tubeless tyre gives the confidence to ride the bike even on challenging terrain and, coupled with a DC headlamp, ensures its safety even when it gets dark. “Side Stand Engine Cut Off” is one of the USPs of the bike that provides the rider’s safety by cutting off the engine when the side stand is engaged. A lot of accidents on Indian roads happen due to this. The silver allows the wheels to give the bike a premium feel.
Honda CD 110 Dream Specifications
Type | 4 stroke, SI, BS-VI Engine |
Engine Capacity | 109.51 cc |
Mileage | 65 kmpl |
Clutch Type | Multiplate Wet Clutch |
No. of Gears | 4 Gears |
Transmission | 4 Speed Manual |
Kerb Weight | 112 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 9.1 litres |
Seat Height | 790 mm |
Max Engine Output | 8.79 PS @ 7500 rpm |
Max Torque | 9.30 N-m @ 5500 rpm |
Frame Type | Diamond Type |
Front Suspension | Telescopic |
Rear Suspension | Hydraulic Type |
9. Hero Splendor Plus
Price (Ex. Showroom)
Mumbai: Rs. 72,420
Delhi: Rs. 72,076
Splendor Plus is one of the most advanced bikes in its segment regarding using the latest technology. The variant Xtec is fitted with Bluetooth and a 100% digital instrument cluster that helps in getting SMS alerts on the console. Actual time mileage and low fuel indicator are beneficial features. The i3S variant has a hybrid engine type feature where it switches off when idle for more than 5 seconds. The bike could be started again by pulling the clutch.
BS6 Air powers the bike with a 4-stroke, Single cylinder, OHC engine with a maximum power of 5.9 kW @ 8000 rpm and a peak torque of 8.05 Nm @ 6000 rpm. It is fuel efficient and gives out 60 kmpl.
Hero Splendor Plus Colours
- Matte Shield Gold
- Black with Red
- Black with Silver
- Butterfly Yellow
- Matte Shield Gold
- Ruby Red
- Silver Nexus Blue
- Sunshine Gold
Hero Splendor Plus Specifications
Engine Type | Air cooled, 4-stroke, Single cylinder, OHC |
Engine Capacity | 97.2 cc |
Mileage | 60 kmpl |
Transmission | 4-speed Constant Mesh |
Max. Power | 8.02 PS @ 8000 rpm |
Max. Torque | 8.05 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
Kerb Weight | 112 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 9.8 litres |
Seat Height | 785 mm |
Brakes Front | Drum (130 mm) |
Brakes Rear | Drum (130 mm), Integrated Braking System |
Length X Width X Height | 2000 X 720 X 1052 mm |
Wheelbase | 1236 mm |
Ground Clearance | 165 mm |
10. Hero Passion Pro
Price (Ex. Showroom)
Mumbai: Rs. 73,452
Delhi: Rs. 74,410
The Passion Pro BS6 is introduced with a few new features. The BS6 gives out 9.1 PS of peak power and 9.79 Nm of maximum torque. The power is less by 0.41 PS, but the torque has improved by 0.79 Nm compared to the BS4 engine. The mileage also improved with BS6 compliance.
The real-time mileage indicator on the information console is a great feature.
Hero Passion Pro Specifications
Engine Capacity | 110 cc |
Mileage | 55 kmpl |
Transmission | 4 Speed Manual |
Max Power | 9.15 PS @ 7500 rpm |
Max Torque | 9.89 NM @ 5000 rpm |
Kerb Weight | 117 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 10 litres |
Seat Height | 799 mm |
Electric Start/Kick Start | Starting System |
Comparison of prices and specifications of the cheapest bikes
Model | Ex. Showroom (Mumbai) | Engine Capacity | Max Power |
Bajaj Platina 100 | Rs. 52,166 | 102 cc | 7.9 PS @ 7500 rpm |
Bajaj CT 100 | Rs. 59,110 | 115.45 cc | 7.9 PS @ 7500 rpm |
Hero HF Deluxe | Rs. 54,962 | 97.2 cc | 8.36 PS @ 8000 rpm |
TVS Sport | Rs. 61,500 | 109.7 cc | 8.29 PS @ 7350 rpm |
TVS Star City Plus | Rs. 73,358 | 109.7 cc | 8.19 PS @ 7350 rpm |
Bajaj CT 125X | Rs. 71,930 | 124.4 cc | 10.9 Ps@ 8000 rpm |
TVS Radeon | Rs. 71,958 | 109.7 cc | 8.19 PS @ 7350 rpm |
Honda CD 110 Dream | Rs. 72,245 | 109.51 cc | 8.79 PS @ 7500 rpm |
Hero Splendor Plus | Rs. 72,420 | 97.2 cc | 8.02 PS @ 8000 rpm |
Hero Passion Pro | Rs. 73,452 | 110 cc | 9.15 PS @ 7500 rpm |
Cheapest Bikes in India FAQ
Which bike is the lowest in cost?
The bikes that are lowest in cost –
- Bajaj Platina 100 – Rs. 52,166
- Bajaj CT 100 – Rs. 59,110
- Hero HF Dawn/Deluxe – Rs. 54,962
- TVS Sport – Rs. 61,500
Which is no 1 mileage in the bike?
The bikes with the highest mileage or fuel efficiency are –
- TVS Star City Plu – 84 kmpl
- TVS Radeon – 72 kmpl
- Hero Passion Pro – 68 kmpl
- TVS Raider – 67 kmpl
Which bike is most selling in India?
The 5 best selling bikes as per October 2022 data are –
- Splendor
- CB Shine
- Pulsar
- HF Deluxe
- Platina
Discontinued Motorcycles
TVS Max 4R – Load carrying bike
Due to the aging of the TVS Max 100R, TVS launched TVS Max 4R in 2010. The 110cc 4-stroke, air-cooled engine used in this bike was borrowed from Star City, which gives out a peak power of 8.4PS and maximum torque of 8.3Nm. Torque is available at an early stage, due to which there is enough of it even when the load is added. The design and styling for the bike are basic but built quite strong. The bike is designed to take up the bad roads in rural India easily. The bike can go from 0-60kmph in under 9 seconds and has a top speed of 85kmph.
130 mm telescopic front forks and quad shock absorbers in the back work well and help keep the bike stable even on bumpy roads. The rear seats could be removed and can be used to carry luggage. The mobile charging unit is one of the most useful features on the bike, which could be a boon for rural India, where power cuts are frequent for a long duration. The stand is easy to use and can be applied without much power. The bike gives an overall mileage of 58kmpl, which is pretty decent.
Honda Dream Neo – Kick-Spoke
Honda is well known for its built quality and is the same for Dream Neo. The styling for the bike is highly derived from its sibling Dream Yuga. The bike is fitted with a 109cc 4-stroke, air-cooled engine, similar to Dream Yuga. The power output for the engine is 8.4PS and a peak torque of 8.6NM at 550rpm. The top speed of the bike is close to 86.1 mph. It gives a mileage of 69.5 kmpl on city roads and 76.5 km on highways. The company claims its fuel economy to be 74 km.
The 0-60 kmph comes in 9.1s, which is not one of the best when compared to other low-cost bikes in the segment. 130 mm drum brakes are fitted in both front and rear, giving good and effective stop capability. The kerb weight of the bike is 107kg which is one of the lowest in its segment.
Mahindra Pantero – A Panther-inspired Commuter
Specifically designed for jungle drive, Pantero is a spectacular bike manufactured by Mahindra to meet the exacting demands of the commuter segment in terms of functionality, performance and above all, reliability. The Pantero is Mahindra’s entry-level bike and the second attempt in the 100cc segment after Stallio. However, Pantero is a vast improvement over the ill-fated Stallio.
Equipped with a bunch of features and an indigenously built engine, the Pantero is a well-rounded product catering to the Indian commuter segment rather well. Panther-inspired Pantero is powered by a 100cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder MCi-5 engine, producing 8.5 bhp of power and a torque of 8.5Nm. With an indigenously developed and intelligent MCi-5 engine, the Mahindra Pantero is the most maneuverable bike in the segment, capable of easily handling traffic and bad roads. Mahindra Pantero is available in India within a price range of INR 39608 – 43108.
6 Comments
Superb article on the cheapest motorcycle options that are for sale in India. A good comparison of the different models, prices, and features. It is easy for budget-conscious buyers to make decisions based on data points. The pros and cons of each option are helpful too.
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Hi,
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