TL;DR (Quick Pick Guide)
- Best Overall: TVS Apache RTR 160 4V (~₹1.45L) – Power, style, comfort, highway-ready
- Best Mileage: Yamaha FZ-S V4 (~₹1.42L) – 45–55 km/l, ultra-refined, light
- Best Family Commuter: Honda Unicorn 160 (~₹1.32L) – Supreme comfort, 50+ km/l
- Best City Power: Bajaj Pulsar N160 (~₹1.45L) – Strong low-end, dual ABS
- Best Enthusiast: Bajaj Pulsar NS160 (~₹1.45L) – High-rev thrill, oil-cooled
- Best Style: Hero Xtreme 160R 4V (~₹1.53L) – USD forks, modern looks
All prices on-road (avg. India). Pick based on use: city = FZ-S/Unicorn, fun = RTR/NS160.
The ₹1.5 lakh on-road bracket is where India’s motorcycle market truly shines. You’re no longer stuck with basic commuters or underpowered machines. In 2025, this segment delivers refined 160cc engines, oil-cooled performance, dual-channel ABS, comfortable suspensions, and mileage above 40 km/l—all while staying under your budget.
Whether you’re a college student dodging traffic, a daily commuter battling potholes, or a weekend enthusiast craving highway pulls, there’s a bike built for you. I’ve spent months riding these machines across city streets and highways, testing acceleration, comfort, fuel efficiency, and real-world reliability. This guide—drawn from hands-on experience and the SR Moto World review—cuts through the noise to help you pick the perfect daily rider.
Let’s ride through the top contenders.
1. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V – The Most Balanced Performer
On-Road Price: ₹1.38 lakh – ₹1.65 lakh (variant-dependent) Engine: 159.7cc, 4-valve, oil-cooled Power: 17.3 PS @ 9250 RPM Torque: 14.7 Nm Kerb Weight: 144 kg Mileage: 42–45 km/l
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is the all-round champion of this segment. Its 4-valve oil-cooled engine delivers crisp acceleration, strong top-end pull, and minimal vibrations—a huge leap from older TVS models. The power-to-weight ratio is among the best, making it feel lighter and quicker than its 144 kg suggests.
The recent facelift adds aggressive styling—sharp tank lines, LED headlamp, and a muscular stance that turns heads. On the move, the medium-tuned suspension absorbs potholes without feeling floaty, while 180 mm ground clearance handles speed breakers and bad roads with ease.
The seat strikes a perfect balance—sporty yet comfortable for solo rides or with a pillion. It’s not too aggressive for long commutes, nor too soft for spirited cornering. Handling is confident, though thinner tyres can feel slippery in wet conditions.
Real-World Ride: I rode it from Mumbai to Lonavala—70 km non-stop. The engine stayed cool, acceleration was instant, and the oil-cooling prevented power drop even at high RPMs.
Pros:
- Excellent acceleration & top-end
- Oil-cooled for highway capability
- Balanced comfort & sportiness
- Aggressive new looks
Cons:
- Thinner tyres reduce wet grip
- TVS spare parts availability varies by region
Verdict: The Apache RTR 160 4V is the best all-rounder under ₹1.5 lakh. Pick a single/dual-channel ABS variant under ₹1.5 lakh for daily + weekend use.
2. Yamaha FZ-S Fi Version 4.0 – The Efficiency King
On-Road Price: ₹1.40 – ₹1.44 lakh Engine: 149cc, air-cooled, 2-valve Power: 12.2 PS Torque: 13.3 Nm Kerb Weight: 136 kg Mileage: 45–55 km/l (city), ~40 km/l (highway)
If fuel bills keep you up at night, the Yamaha FZ-S V4 is your dream bike. Its 149cc engine may look underpowered on paper, but the lightest kerb weight (136 kg) makes it surprisingly peppy in city traffic. The mid-range punch between 4,000–5,000 RPM is smooth and effortless.
Yamaha’s legendary refinement shines—no vibrations, no harshness, just buttery-smooth power delivery. The plush suspension and wide 140-section rear tyre offer excellent stability and wet-weather grip. The 790 mm seat height is a boon for shorter riders.
Real-World Ride: A week of office commutes (40 km daily) returned 52 km/l with AC roads and traffic. The soft seat and upright posture kept fatigue away.
Pros:
- Class-leading mileage
- Ultra-refined Japanese engine
- Lightweight & easy to handle
- Great for short riders
Cons:
- No top-end power
- Single-channel ABS only
Verdict: The FZ-S V4 is the best city commuter for students and budget-conscious riders. It’s built to last 10+ years with excellent parts availability.
3. Bajaj Pulsar N160 – City Performer with Power
On-Road Price: ₹1.39 – ₹1.54 lakh Engine: 164.82cc, 2-valve, air-cooled Power: 15.6 PS Torque: 14.6 Nm Kerb Weight: 154 kg Mileage: 40–45 km/l
The Pulsar N160 is the city warrior with strong low-end grunt. Its 164cc 2-valve engine thrives in stop-go traffic, delivering instant pickup and smooth mid-range. The dual-channel ABS adds confidence in panic braking.
The spacious seat and upright ergonomics make it family-friendly—perfect for dropping kids or carrying a pillion. The 794 mm seat height suits most riders, and Bajaj’s vast service network ensures peace of mind.
Real-World Ride: Loaded with groceries and a pillion, it pulled cleanly from 20 km/h without downshifting. No stress, no drama.
Pros:
- Strong low & mid-range
- Dual-channel ABS
- Family-friendly comfort
- Excellent service reach
Cons:
- Heavier than rivals
- Vibrations above 7,000 RPM
Verdict: The N160 is ideal for urban families who want power + practicality. Skip highways—stick to city duties.
4. Bajaj Pulsar NS160 – The Powerhouse for Enthusiasts
On-Road Price: ₹1.45 lakh Engine: 160.3cc, 4-valve, oil-cooled Power: 17.2 PS Torque: 14.6 Nm Kerb Weight: 152 kg Mileage: 40–43 km/l
The Pulsar NS160 is the enthusiast’s delight. Its 4-valve oil-cooled engine wakes up above 7,000 RPM, delivering explosive acceleration and highway stability. The stiff suspension and perimeter frame offer sharp handling.
Real-World Ride: 0–100 km/h felt quicker than the RTR 160 4V in straight-line sprints. The oil-cooling kept performance consistent.
Pros:
- High-RPM performance
- Oil-cooled for sustained runs
- Sharp, sporty handling
- 170 mm ground clearance
Cons:
- Split seat reduces pillion comfort
- Stiff ride on bad roads
Verdict: The NS160 is for young riders who love spirited rides and weekend thrills. Not for family duties.
5. Honda Unicorn 160 – The Comfort King
On-Road Price: ₹1.32 lakh Engine: 162.7cc, air-cooled Power: 13 PS Torque: 14.5 Nm Kerb Weight: 139 kg Mileage: 50+ km/l
The Honda Unicorn 160 is the undisputed comfort champion. Its legendary suspension absorbs potholes like magic, while the refined engine and lightweight build make it a joy for daily use.
The 187 mm ground clearance and wide seat make it perfect for family rides. Honda’s reliability and parts availability are unmatched.
Real-World Ride: Carried wife + child for 50 km—no complaints, no fatigue. Mileage touched 58 km/l in eco mode.
Pros:
- Supreme comfort
- Ultra-reliable
- Best for family
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Basic features
- Not sporty
Verdict: The Unicorn is the best family commuter. Choose SP 160 for slight power boost (same comfort, more pep).
6. Hero Xtreme 160R 4V – The Premium Touch
On-Road Price: ₹1.53 lakh Engine: 163cc, 4-valve, oil-cooled Power: 16.6 PS Torque: 14.6 Nm Kerb Weight: 145 kg Mileage: 40–45 km/l
The Hero Xtreme 160R 4V brings premium hardware—USD forks, LED lighting, and sharp styling. The 4-valve engine offers strong mid-to-top performance and quick acceleration.
Real-World Ride: Felt stable at 110 km/h, but hard plastics rattled slightly on rough patches.
Pros:
- USD forks for better handling
- Modern design
- Good power-to-weight
Cons:
- Hard plastic quality
- Compact pillion seat
Verdict: A stylish, sporty option for young riders. Test ride first—avoid if pillion comfort matters.
Comparison Table – Best Bikes Under ₹1.5 Lakh (On-Road)
| Bike | Engine | Power (PS) | Mileage (km/l) | On-Road Price (₹) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | 159.7cc | 17.3 | 42–45 | 1.38–1.65 L | Performance & Style |
| Yamaha FZ-S Fi V4 | 149cc | 12.2 | 45–55 | 1.40–1.44 L | City & Mileage |
| Bajaj Pulsar N160 | 164.8cc | 15.6 | 40–45 | 1.39–1.54 L | Daily Use |
| Bajaj Pulsar NS160 | 160.3cc | 17.2 | 40–43 | 1.45 L | Enthusiasts |
| Honda Unicorn 160 | 162.7cc | 13 | 50+ | 1.32 L | Comfort & Reliability |
| Hero Xtreme 160R 4V | 163cc | 16.6 | 40–45 | 1.53 L | Modern Sporty Feel |
Final Verdict: Which Bike Should You Choose?
- 🏙️ For City & Mileage: Yamaha FZ-S Fi V4 – Unbeatable efficiency & refinement.
- 🛣️ For Performance & Highways: TVS Apache RTR 160 4V or Bajaj NS160 – 4-valve, oil-cooled thrill.
- 👨👩👧 For Family Comfort: Honda Unicorn 160 – Plush, reliable, no-nonsense.
- ⚡ For Stylish Modern Ride: Hero Xtreme 160R 4V – Premium looks & handling.
- 💪 For Balanced All-Rounder: Bajaj Pulsar N160 – Power + practicality.
The under ₹1.5 lakh segment in November 2025 is more exciting than ever. You’re not just buying a bike—you’re choosing a lifestyle. From the fuel-sipping FZ-S to the high-revving NS160, every model excels in its niche.
Before you buy: 👉 Test ride at least two bikes — feel the seat, suspension, and pickup. 👉 Check on-road price in your city — taxes vary by state. 👉 Ask about service costs — Bajaj & Honda lead in reach. 👉 Prioritize your need: Mileage? Comfort? Thrill?
Your hard-earned ₹1.5 lakh deserves the perfect match. Which bike are you leaning toward? Drop your pick in the comments—and ride safe! 🏍️
Source: Best Bikes under ₹1.5 Lakh On-road in India | Best Mileage & Performance bikes for Daily Use
