As diverse as the Indian motorcycle market is, it’s becoming seemingly hard to find the perfect motorcycle – yes, even for us critics – in a particular space. Take the Honda Hornet 2.0 for instance, which, when launched a few days back, stirred the 180cc motorcycle space.
So, in order to break it down the list of all the motorcycles that deserve to be crowned as the top picks under the 10-lakh budget in each respective segment, we have a list for you. So, without much further-a-do, here goes.
1. TVS Sport
While the Hero Splendor might be the sales leader in the commuter bike department, it’s the TVS Sport that impresses overall with its quality, powertrain, and acceptable design. It is also one of the most frugal bikes on the planet, with a fuel economy of around 80km/l. It is also quite good looking, thanks to the generous use of stickers and black-painted alloy wheels. All in all, TVS Sport is an extremely well-packaged commuter for the price.
2. Hero Xpulse 200
Launched last year, the Hero Xpulse 200 took everyone by surprise with its inherent off-road capabilities that came at a very affordable price tag. Due to this, the Xpulse 200 was also awarded the prestigious ICOTY 2020 award. Powered by a BS-VI compliant 199.6cc single-cylinder mill (18.1bhp of power and 17.1Nm of torque), the Xpulse is built around a diamond type frame. Moreover, Hero has given it sufficient hardware to ensure that it tackles the off-beaten path with ease. On top of that, the Xpulse 200 also gets a decent equipment list, replete with LED headlamp and taillamp, and a fully-digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity.
3. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
Priced similarly as the abovementioned, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is a very well lauded naked motorcycle that has impressed us critics and also the consumers all over the country with its dynamic prowess, ease of use, and dead-drop reliability. Now in its BS-VI guise, the RTR 160 4V has gained a full-LED headlamp and an updated TFT display for the instrumentation. While it isn’t as quick as the BS-IV version, the new bike does come across as a very impressive machine nonetheless. In the same segment, you can also pick the newly launched Hero Xtreme 160R, which is just as impressed as the Apache, if not more.
4. KTM RC 200 and KTM 200 Duke
While they might not look exactly like one another, the 200cc siblings from KTM are very identical to one another. For instance, both of them share the same chassis, powertrain, and equipment. Talking about the powertrain, the 199cc mill from the manufacturer is an absolute gem of an engine. Moreover, since both these bikes are almost identical, they both have made it to the list. The only difference here lies in whether you want a fully-faired sports motorcycle (the RC200) or a naked machine (200 Duke).
5. Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
For those who love the charm of old-school retro motorcycles, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is the best option. From its buttery smooth 650cc parallel-twin engine to nice and comfortable ergonomics, the Interceptor 650 is one gem of a motorcycle. However, as is a norm with a retro-themed motorcycle, the Interceptor 650 doesn’t get any fancy modern-day electronics, apart from the safety net of dual-channel ABS. Other picks in this price bracket could be the KTM 390 Duke and Honda CB300R.
6. TVS Apache RR310
TVS has regularly updated the RR310 over the years to keep it in line with the competition. The 2020 BS-VI version of the fully-faired motorcycle is a huge improvement over its predecessor in almost every department. It now also packs modern-age electronics and improved ergonomics. Moreover, the addition of new tyres has done wonders to the TVS Apache RR310. It is, of course, the best motorcycle in this category.
7. Triumph Street Triple R
This one is a different beast altogether. Sure, there are different offerings from Kawasaki and Harley-Davidson in this price bracket, but nothing comes close to offering the dynamic abilities of the Triumph Street Triple R. It is also the one that proves its worth with a nice set price tag. Plus, on top of that, it is perhaps the better buy even than the RS derivative of its namesake.
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