Top 5 most affordable | Best 150cc -160cc bikes in India 2022

The 150cc to 160cc segment is one of the most popular in India, offering a perfect blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability. These bikes are ideal for city commuting and occasional long rides, making them a favorite among Indian riders. If you’re looking for the best 150cc-160cc bikes in India, here are some top picks that deliver on performance, style, and value.

Honda Unicorn: A Trusted Commuter Bike in India

Bajaj Pulsar 150: India’s Most Popular 150cc Bike

The Bajaj Pulsar 150 has been a household name in India for years, known for its balance of performance, affordability, and style. It’s a perfect combination of power, mileage, and practicality, making it a popular choice among young riders and commuters alike.

Key Features of the Bajaj Pulsar 150

1. Engine and Performance

The Bajaj Pulsar 150 is powered by a 149.5cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, twin-spark DTS-i engine that delivers 14 PS of power and 13.25 Nm of torque. It’s mated to a 5-speed gearbox and provides a smooth and responsive riding experience. The Pulsar 150's engine is known for its punchy mid-range performance, making it ideal for city riding as well as occasional highway trips.

• Engine: 149.5cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled
• Power: 14 PS @ 8500 rpm
• Torque: 13.25 Nm @ 6500 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual

2. Mileage

The Pulsar 150 is highly efficient, offering an impressive fuel economy. With a mileage of around 50 km/l, it’s perfect for daily commutes, providing both performance and cost-efficiency.

• Mileage: 50 km/l (approx.)

3. Design and Styling

The Bajaj Pulsar 150 retains its iconic design with a muscular fuel tank, aggressive stance, and sporty graphics. Its design is a perfect blend of a commuter and a sports bike, appealing to a wide audience. The bike features LED tail lights, a sharp headlamp, and a semi-digital instrument cluster, which adds to its modern appeal.

• Body Type: Sports-commuter
• Instrument Console: Semi-digital

4. Comfort and Ride Quality

The Pulsar 150 offers a comfortable and stable ride thanks to its upright riding position, well-padded seat, and responsive suspension system. The front features telescopic forks, and the rear is equipped with twin shock absorbers, ensuring a smooth ride over bumps and potholes.

The bike's split seat design on some variants adds both comfort and a sporty aesthetic.

• Front Suspension: Telescopic
• Rear Suspension: Twin gas shock absorbers

5. Braking and Safety

The Bajaj Pulsar 150 comes with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes as standard. Some variants also come with single-channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), enhancing safety during sudden braking or on slippery surfaces.

• Brakes: Front disc, rear drum
• ABS: Single-channel

6. Variants

The Bajaj Pulsar 150 is available in multiple variants, including the standard single-disc variant, the twin-disc variant, and the Neon variant, each offering slightly different features and styling to suit different rider preferences.

• Variants: Standard, Twin-disc, Neon

7. Pricing

The Pulsar 150 is competitively priced, making it one of the most affordable and value-for-money options in the 150cc segment. The different variants offer flexibility in terms of pricing, allowing customers to choose based on their budget and requirements.

• Price: ₹1.17 Lakh to ₹1.21 Lakh (Ex-showroom, depending on variant)

Pros of Bajaj Pulsar 150

• Powerful and responsive engine
• Good fuel efficiency for a 150cc bike
• Sporty and muscular design
• Comfortable for long rides
• Available in multiple variants

Cons of Bajaj Pulsar 150

• Lacks some modern features like LED headlamp
• Heavy weight can make handling slightly difficult for new riders
• Not as feature-rich as some competitors in the segment

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V: The Power-Packed Streetfighter

The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is a well-rounded, performance-oriented motorcycle that has gained popularity for its aggressive design, strong engine, and feature-rich offerings. Known for its race-inspired DNA, the Apache RTR 160 4V stands out in the 160cc segment, providing riders with an exhilarating riding experience without compromising on comfort or fuel efficiency.

Key Features of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V

1. Engine and Performance

The Apache RTR 160 4V is powered by a 159.7cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled, four-valve engine that churns out an impressive 17.55 PS of power and 14.73 Nm of torque in the disc brake variant, making it one of the most powerful bikes in its class. The engine is refined and offers a linear power delivery, making it suitable for both city riding and highway cruising.

The bike is available in both fuel-injected and carbureted versions, allowing riders to choose according to their performance preferences. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

• Engine: 159.7cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled, four-valve
• Power: 17.55 PS @ 9250 rpm (Disc variant)
• Torque: 14.73 Nm @ 7250 rpm (Disc variant)
• Transmission: 5-speed manual

2. Mileage

Despite its high-performance engine, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V offers decent mileage, making it an economical option for daily commuting as well as long-distance rides. The bike delivers an estimated 40-45 km/l under normal riding conditions.

• Mileage: 40-45 km/l (approx.)

3. Design and Styling

The Apache RTR 160 4V features a sharp and aggressive design that resonates with its sporty performance. The bike sports a sculpted fuel tank with sharp tank shrouds, adding to its muscular stance. The all-LED headlamp setup, along with an LED DRL (Daytime Running Light), enhances its modern look. The bike also features a dual-tone seat, stylish alloy wheels, and a racing-inspired exhaust system.

The overall design is race-inspired, with the "RTR" standing for Racing Throttle Response, and the bike does justice to its name with its sharp and aerodynamic body lines.

• Headlamp: LED with DRL
• Body Type: Naked streetfighter
• Instrument Console: Fully digital

4. Comfort and Ride Quality

The Apache RTR 160 4V is built for performance but doesn't compromise on comfort. It features a well-padded seat and an upright riding position, making it suitable for long-distance rides as well. The suspension setup, with telescopic forks at the front and a mono-shock at the rear, offers a balanced ride on city streets and highways.

• Front Suspension: Telescopic
• Rear Suspension: Mono-shock

5. Braking and Safety

The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V comes equipped with either a front disc and rear drum brake setup or a dual-disc setup, depending on the variant. The bike also features single-channel ABS, providing extra safety during sudden braking or on slippery surfaces.

• Brakes: Front disc, rear drum (with optional rear disc)
• ABS: Single-channel

6. Technology and Features

One of the standout aspects of the Apache RTR 160 4V is the amount of tech and features it offers. The fully digital instrument console displays all the essential information, including speed, fuel gauge, odometer, gear indicator, and lap timer. The bike also comes with a "Glide Through Technology" (GTT), which allows for smooth low-speed riding in traffic without the need to constantly use the clutch.

• Instrument Console: Fully digital with lap timer and gear indicator
• Special Features: Glide Through Technology (GTT)

7. Variants and Pricing

The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is available in multiple variants, with different braking setups and features to suit various rider needs. The pricing varies accordingly, making it accessible for a wide range of customers.

• Price: ₹1.23 Lakh to ₹1.30 Lakh (Ex-showroom, depending on variant)

Pros of TVS Apache RTR 160 4V

• Best-in-class power and performance
• Aggressive, race-inspired design
• Feature-rich, including digital console and GTT
• Comfortable ride with good handling
• Value for money in terms of features and performance

Cons of TVS Apache RTR 160 4V

• Slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to rivals
• Heavier than some other 160cc bikes
• Vibrations can be felt at higher RPMs

Hero Xtreme 160R: The Modern Streetfighter

The Hero Xtreme 160R is a sporty and aggressive motorcycle that has quickly gained attention in the 160cc segment in India. Known for its sleek design, nimble handling, and impressive performance, the Xtreme 160R is ideal for young riders looking for a fun and reliable streetfighter. Hero has packed this bike with modern features and efficient engineering, making it one of the top choices in its class.

Key Features of the Hero Xtreme 160R

1. Engine and Performance

The Hero Xtreme 160R is powered by a 163cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine that delivers 15.2 PS of power at 8,500 rpm and 14 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. The engine is refined and offers a quick throttle response, which makes the bike feel nimble and lively in city traffic. Mated to a 5-speed gearbox, the Xtreme 160R is capable of smooth and seamless shifts, enhancing the riding experience.

The bike also features Hero’s XSens Technology, which improves performance and fuel efficiency.

• Engine: 163cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected
• Power: 15.2 PS @ 8,500 rpm
• Torque: 14 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual

2. Mileage

The Xtreme 160R offers an impressive fuel efficiency for its segment, with riders reporting an average 45-50 km/l under regular riding conditions. This makes it a cost-effective option for daily commutes, while still providing ample performance when needed.

• Mileage: 45-50 km/l (approx.)

3. Design and Styling

Hero has given the Xtreme 160R a sporty and aggressive look that appeals to younger riders. The sharp headlamp design with full LED lighting, including LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights), adds a modern touch to the bike’s aesthetics. The muscular fuel tank, minimalistic rear design, and split seat setup give it a streetfighter appeal, while maintaining a compact and lightweight feel.

The bike's design is complemented by sporty alloy wheels, a short rear fender, and a fully digital instrument cluster, enhancing its urban and youthful appeal.

• Headlamp: Full LED with DRLs
• Instrument Console: Fully digital
• Body Type: Naked streetfighter

4. Comfort and Ride Quality

Despite its sporty stance, the Hero Xtreme 160R offers a comfortable riding position, with a slightly forward-leaning posture that suits both daily commutes and occasional longer rides. The suspension setup includes telescopic forks at the front and a 7-step adjustable mono-shock at the rear, ensuring a smooth and balanced ride over city roads and bumps.

The bike's lightweight design (138.5 kg for the single-disc variant) ensures excellent handling and maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through congested traffic.

• Front Suspension: Telescopic
• Rear Suspension: 7-step adjustable mono-shock

5. Braking and Safety

The Hero Xtreme 160R comes equipped with disc brakes at the front, and you can opt for either a rear drum or disc brake variant. The bike also features single-channel ABS, which ensures safer braking, especially on wet or slippery roads.

• Brakes: Front disc (276mm), rear drum/disc (220mm)
• ABS: Single-channel ABS

6. Technology and Features

The Xtreme 160R is loaded with tech, including a fully digital instrument cluster that displays information like speed, gear position, trip meter, and fuel gauge. The bike also comes with side-stand engine cut-off, a handy feature that ensures the engine won’t start if the side stand is down.

The lightweight chassis, combined with these modern features, makes it one of the most tech-friendly and rider-centric motorcycles in its class.

• Instrument Console: Fully digital
• Special Features: Side-stand engine cut-off, LED lighting, ABS

7. Variants and Pricing

The Hero Xtreme 160R is available in two main variants—Single Disc and Double Disc. Both variants are priced competitively, offering great value for money considering the features and performance on offer.

• Price: ₹1.21 Lakh to ₹1.25 Lakh (Ex-showroom, depending on variant)

Pros of Hero Xtreme 160R

• Lightweight and nimble, perfect for city traffic
• Impressive fuel efficiency
• Modern design with full LED lighting
• Feature-packed, including digital console and side-stand cut-off
• Competitive pricing for its segment

Cons of Hero Xtreme 160R

• Engine power slightly lower than some rivals
• No dual-channel ABS option
• Seat cushioning could be improved for longer rides

Yamaha  FZ S

The Yamaha FZ S is a popular name in the Indian two-wheeler market, known for its muscular design, refined engine, and comfortable ride quality. With its modern features and efficient performance, the FZ S has maintained its strong position as a premium commuter in the 150cc segment. Yamaha has ensured that the FZ S offers the perfect combination of style, power, and practicality, making it a favorite among urban riders.

Key Features of the Yamaha FZ S

1. Engine and Performance

The Yamaha FZ S is powered by a 149cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine that delivers 12.4 PS of power at 7,250 rpm and 13.3 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. The engine is tuned for strong low-end torque, which enhances its city riding performance. While it might not be the most powerful engine in the segment, the FZ S stands out for its refined engine and smooth power delivery.

The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox and features Yamaha's Blue Core technology, which focuses on improving fuel efficiency without compromising performance.

• Engine: 149cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected
• Power: 12.4 PS @ 7,250 rpm
• Torque: 13.3 Nm @ 5,500 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual

2. Mileage

One of the strongest points of the Yamaha FZ S is its excellent fuel efficiency. Riders can expect a mileage of around 45-50 km/l under normal riding conditions, making it an economical choice for daily commuters who want both style and efficiency.

• Mileage: 45-50 km/l (approx.)

3. Design and Styling

The FZ S has always been admired for its muscular and aggressive design. The bike features a beefy fuel tank, sharp body lines, and a streetfighter stance that gives it a commanding road presence. The latest version of the FZ S also comes with LED headlamps and LED tail lamps, enhancing its modern look.

The overall styling is sporty yet minimalistic, appealing to younger riders who seek a stylish commuter. The single-piece seat is wide and comfortable, while the exhaust design adds to the bike’s sporty appeal.

• Headlamp: LED
• Tail Lamp: LED
• Body Type: Naked streetfighter

4. Comfort and Ride Quality

The Yamaha FZ S is known for its comfortable ride, making it a great choice for both city commutes and occasional long rides. The bike offers a slightly upright seating position, with wide handlebars for better control. The front suspension includes telescopic forks, while the rear features a 7-step adjustable mono-shock, ensuring a smooth ride over varying road conditions.

The comfortable seating and soft suspension setup make it an excellent commuter, providing both agility in traffic and stability on highways.

• Front Suspension: Telescopic
• Rear Suspension: 7-step adjustable mono-shock

5. Braking and Safety

The Yamaha FZ S is equipped with disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels. The bike also features single-channel ABS, enhancing braking performance and providing added safety, especially during emergency braking situations or on wet surfaces.

• Brakes: Front and rear disc
• ABS: Single-channel ABS

6. Technology and Features

Yamaha has equipped the FZ S with several modern features to keep it in line with the latest trends. The bike comes with a fully digital instrument cluster that displays essential information like speed, fuel level, trip meter, odometer, and gear position. Additionally, the FZ S is equipped with Yamaha’s Connect-X technology, which offers smartphone connectivity for features like bike location, parking record, and ride history.

• Instrument Console: Fully digital
• Special Features: Yamaha Connect-X (smartphone connectivity)

7. Variants and Pricing

The Yamaha FZ S is available in multiple variants, including FZ S Standard and FZ S Dark Knight editions, with different color schemes and minor aesthetic upgrades. The pricing is competitive for its segment, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for a premium commuter.

• Price: ₹1.25 Lakh to ₹1.28 Lakh (Ex-showroom, depending on variant)

Pros of Yamaha FZ S

• Refined engine with smooth power delivery

• Excellent fuel efficiency

• Muscular and aggressive streetfighter design

• Comfortable for daily commutes and long rides

• Modern features like LED lighting and smartphone connectivity

Cons of Yamaha FZ S

• Lower power output compared to some rivals

• No dual-channel ABS option

• Limited top-end performance

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