If your total on-road budget is limited to ₹2 lakh (including insurance, tax and registration), choosing the right motorcycle can be confusing. In this guide, we will clearly explain which bike suits which type of rider better, students, daily commuters, performance lovers, mileage seekers and family users.
Each motorcycle mentioned here has already been ridden and reviewed, and we will openly discuss the pros, cons and real-world usability so that you don’t regret your purchase later.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- On-road price: ₹1.73 lakh – ₹1.90 lakh
- Engine: 349cc
- Power: 20 bhp
- Torque: 27 Nm
- Mileage: 30–35 kmpl
- Kerb weight: 177 kg
The Hunter 350 offers excellent low-end torque, which makes it very easy to ride in city traffic. The bike pulls well even at low RPMs, so you don’t have to change gears frequently. This makes it one of the strongest low-speed performers in this segment.
However, top-end performance is weak, and the engine feels strained at high RPMs. The suspension feels stiffer, which can be uncomfortable on bad roads. It’s also the heaviest bike on this list, so lighter riders should test it carefully.
Best for:
- Riders who prefer strong low-end torque.
- Suitable for city use.
- Entry into the Royal Enfield ecosystem.
Not ideal for:
- High-speed riders
- Rough road conditions
- Those looking for a lighter bike
Yamaha MT-15 V2
- On-road price: ₹1.97 lakh – ₹2.03 lakh
- Engine: 155cc (Liquid-cooled, VVA)
- Power: 18.4 PS
- Torque: 14.1 Nm
- Mileage: 45–50 kmpl
The MT-15 is light, sharp and extremely agile, making it a good choice for city traffic. The engine is refined, reliable, and the VVA gets aggressive after working at high RPM. Despite being a 155cc bike, it offers premium features like traction control and dual-channel ABS.
Pillion comfort is very poor, and taller riders may feel cramped. On the highway, wind gusts and straight-line stability are average.
Best for:
- Students
- City riding
- Mileage-conscious buyers
Not ideal for:
- Family use
- Frequent pillion riding
Bajaj Pulsar NS200
- On-road price: ₹1.89 lakh – ₹1.93 lakh
- Engine: 199.5cc (Liquid-cooled)
- Power: 24.5 PS
- Torque: 18.7 Nm
- Mileage: 32–37 kmpl
The NS200 is the best performing bike in this price range. It loves high RPMs and shines on the highway. The perimeter frame offers excellent stability, and parts availability across India is strong.
Low-end torque is weak, and frequent gear changes are required in city traffic. The design also feels dated.
Best for:
- Performance enthusiasts
- Highway riders
- Riders who enjoy a revving engine
Not ideal for:
- Family use
- Low RPM urban riding
Honda Hornet 2.0
- On-road price: ₹1.69 lakh – ₹1.83 lakh
- Engine: 184cc (Air-cooled)
- Power: 17.2 PS
- Torque: 16.1 Nm
- Mileage: ~42 kmpl
The Hornet 2.0 has excellent build quality and offers a refined engine and sharp handling. However, its very stiff suspension makes it uncomfortable on rough roads, and the air-cooled engine limits highway use.
Sales numbers are low, which may raise concerns about long-term parts availability.
Best for:
- Honda loyalists
- City-focused riders
- Riders who prefer premium quality
Not ideal for:
- Touring
- Rough road use
Bajaj Pulsar N250
- On-road price: ~₹1.80 lakh
- Engine: 249cc (Oil-cooled, 2-valve)
- Power: 24.5 PS
- Torque: 21.5 Nm
- Mileage: ~35 kmpl
The N250 delivers strong low and mid-range torque, along with a comfortable seat and a comfortable suspension setup. It’s easy to ride, practical, and has a comfortable rear seat, making it suitable for family use.
High-speed stability and top-end excitement feel limited, so hardcore performance riders may be disappointed.
Best for:
- Middle-aged riders
- Daily commute
- Family use
Not ideal for:
- Track riding
- High-speed enthusiasts
Suzuki Gixxer SF 155
- On-road price: ~₹1.75 lakh
- Engine: 155cc (Air-cooled)
- Power: 13.6 PS
- Mileage: 45–50 kmpl
Despite good build quality and reliability, the Gixxer SF 155 feels underpowered and overpriced. Its single-channel ABS and outdated design make it difficult to justify its price.
Not recommended at this price.
Yamaha R15 V3
- On-road price: ~₹1.95 lakh
- Engine: 155cc (Liquid-cooled, VVA)
- Power: 18.6 PS
- Mileage: 45–50 kmpl
Priced at just ₹20,000 more than the Gixxer SF, the R15 offers much better performance, dual-channel ABS, slipper clutch and more long-term satisfaction. The riding posture feels aggressive, so comfort could be an issue for long rides.
Best for:
- Sportbike lovers
- Track-style riding
- Young enthusiasts
