Budget Bikes Under ₹1.5 Lakh: Best Picks 2026
Over 82% of motorcycles sold in India cost under ₹1.5 lakh. This segment is the backbone of the Indian two-wheeler market — commuters, college students, and first-time buyers all shop here. In 2026, the choices are better than ever, with LED lighting, Bluetooth connectivity, and even ABS now available at this price point.
Top 5 Budget Bikes Ranked by Value
| Rank | Bike | Price | Mileage | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hero Splendor Plus XTEC | ₹73,500 | 71 kmpl | 97.2cc |
| 2 | Bajaj Pulsar NS125 | ₹98,000 | 55 kmpl | 124.5cc |
| 3 | TVS Raider 125 | ₹1,02,000 | 58 kmpl | 124.8cc |
| 4 | Honda SP125 | ₹86,000 | 65 kmpl | 123.9cc |
| 5 | Yamaha MT-15 V4 | ₹1,48,000 | 48 kmpl | 155cc |
How They Compare
The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC retains its crown as India's best-selling bike, and the XTEC trim adds Bluetooth, side-stand cut-off, and a semi-digital console for just ₹4,000 more than the standard model. If you want more punch, the Pulsar NS125 offers the best power-to-price ratio with its 12 PS engine and sporty styling.
Hidden Gem: The TVS Raider 125 is the most feature-packed 125cc bike under ₹1 lakh. It gets a fully digital TFT display, call/SMS alerts, and a very capable 11.5 PS engine. TVS sold 3.4 lakh units in FY26.
Should You Buy Electric at This Price?
Electric two-wheelers under ₹1.5 lakh are now a real option. The Ola S1X (₹79,999), Bajaj Chetak Urbane (₹1.15L), and Ather 450S (₹1.09L) all fall in this budget. The running cost is dramatically lower — ₹0.20/km vs ₹2.80/km for petrol — but range anxiety and charging access remain trade-offs for highway users.
Pro Tip: If your daily commute is under 40 km and you have home charging, an electric scooter will save you ₹12,000-15,000/year in fuel costs. For longer rides or no charging at home, stick with a 125cc petrol bike.