Commuting in the traffic of Indian cities is itself a huge challenge. Ask a daily office goer who travels through the traffic of Mumbai, Delhi or Bangalore, what a huge headache it is.

On a good note, there are a number of commuter bikes catered to this problem in India – commuter bikes. These bikes are meant for city travel, to make your rigid journey in the city traffic a little less painful. To know the best commuter bikes in India – stick till the end.
What is a Commuter Bike?
Commuting means travelling from home to work. A commuter bike is designed to be a bike that is used for short travels, for college runs, office work or daily errands. These bikes are meant for city travelling, manoeuvring through traffic. These bikes are meant to support the working class for their short commutes. Popular examples in India include the Hero Splendor Plus, Honda Shine, and Bajaj Platina—trusted choices for millions seeking a cost-effective and dependable ride for everyday use.
Key features of Commuter Bike
- Commuter bikes have cost-effective mileage.
- Offers a comfortable riding posture.
- Lightweight build ensures easy handling in traffic.
- Requires low maintenance and is easy to service.
- Powered by reliable 100–150cc engines.
- Includes electric and kick-start options.
- Priced affordably for budget-conscious buyers.
- Equipped with luggage hooks or a utility-friendly design.
Top 10 Commuter Bikes in India
Here are the top 10 commuter bikes in India:
Hero Splendor Plus
Engine Type
Displacement
Max Power
Max Torque
Transmission
Suspension
Fuel Tank Capacity
Kerb Weight
Mileage
Starting Options
Price Range
Honda Shine 125
Engine Type
Displacement
Max Power
Max Torque
Transmission
Suspension
Fuel Tank Capacity
Kerb Weight
Mileage
Starting Options
Price Range
Bajaj Platina 100
Engine Type
Displacement
Max Power
Max Torque
Transmission
Suspension
Fuel Tank Capacity
Kerb Weight
Mileage
Starting Options
Price Range
TVS Radeon
Engine Type
Displacement
Max Power
Max Torque
Transmission
Fuel Tank Capacity
Kerb Weight
Mileage
Performance
Brakes & Suspension
Starting Options
Fuel & Utility Features
Price Range
Hero HF Deluxe
Engine Type
Displacement
Max Power
Max Torque
Transmission
Top Speed
Fuel Tank Capacity
Kerb Weight
Mileage
Starting Options
Price Range
Notable Features
Brakes & Suspension
Honda CD 110 Dream
Engine Type
Displacement
Max Power
Max Torque
Transmission
Fuel Tank Capacity
Kerb Weight
Mileage
Starting Options
Price Range
Top Speed
Brakes & Suspension
Notable Features
Bajaj CT 110
Engine Type
Displacement
Max Power
Max Torque
Transmission
Fuel Tank Capacity
Kerb Weight
Top Speed
Mileage
Brakes & Suspension
Starting Options
Notable Features
Price Range
Bajaj Pulsar 125
Engine Type
Displacement
Max Power
Max Torque
Transmission
Fuel Tank Capacity
Kerb Weight
Top Speed
Mileage
Brakes & Suspension
Starting Options
Notable Features
Price Range
Honda Unicorn
Engine Type
Displacement
Max Power
Max Torque
Transmission
Fuel Tank Capacity
Kerb Weight
Top Speed
Mileage
Brakes & Suspension
Starting Options
Notable Features
Price Range
Bajaj Freedom 125
Engine Type
Displacement
Max Power
Max Torque
Transmission
Fuel Tank Capacity
Kerb Weight
Top Speed
Mileage
Brakes & Suspension
Starting Options
Notable Features
Price Range
Hero MotoCorp (Formerly known as Hero Honda) has been the king of India’s commuter bike market since the early 1990s. The Splendor line, introduced in 1994, became legendary for its reliability and mileage. The current Splendor Plus retains that legacy, offering a simple, durable ride with updates like alloy wheels and a fuel-saving i3S start‑stop system.
Key Features and Specifications of Hero Splendor Plus
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder OHC
97.2 cc
6.15 kW (8.36 PS) @ 8,000 rpm
8.05 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
4-speed constant-mesh gearbox
Front telescopic hydraulic forks; rear swing-arm with 5-step adjustable hydraulic shocks
9.8L
~112 kg
73 km/l ARAI certified
Kick-start & electric (i3S-equipped)
₹75,000–₹80,000
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) created the Shine series in 2006 to deliver smooth, reliable commuting in India’s 125 cc segment. Shine has excellent fuel efficiency thanks to Honda’s tech, and is a durable and comfortable commuter two-wheeler that has remained at the top in the Indian markets.
Key Features and Specifications of Honda Shine 125
4-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder PGM-FI (BS‑VI compliant)
123.94 cc
~10.74 PS @ 7,500 rpm (~7.9 kW)
~11 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
5-speed constant-mesh gearbox
~113 kg
10.5 L
~55 km/l
Drum (or optional front disc) with CBS; telescopic front and hydraulic rear suspension
Combined Braking System, electric + kick start, analog instrument cluster with side‑stand engine cut-off, engine kill switch, and USB-C port (125 variant)
₹85,000 – ₹90,800
Bajaj Auto launched the Platina series in April 2006 to replace its CT 100 model and meet the growing demand for fuel-efficient commuter bikes. The Platina 100 offers a relaxed, upright riding posture inspired by the Kawasaki Wind 125 and has gained swift popularity on its release.
Key Features and Specifications of Bajaj Platina 100
4-stroke, DTS‑i, single-cylinder, air-cooled
102 cc
5.8 kW (7.9 PS) @ 7,500 rpm
8.3 Nm @ 5,500 rpm
4-speed manual
11L
~117kg
70 kmpl
Front 130 mm drum, rear 110 mm drum with combi‑braking; front telescopic and rear spring suspension
Kick-start & electric (ES model)
₹70,600 – ₹75,000
TVS Motor Company relaunched the Radeon in 2020 (originally introduced in 2014), revamping it with BS-VI emission norms and modern commuter-focused features. Radeon has a strong and durable build, and the revamped version is reigniting the spark that the 2014 version had.
Key Features and Specifications of TVS Radeon
4‑stroke, air-cooled Duralife engine with Eco‑Thrust fuel injection, BS-VI compliant
109.7 cc
8.08 bhp @ 7,350 rpm
8.7 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
4‑speed constant-mesh gearbox
10L
113–116 kg (varies by variant)
73.68 km/l
Top speed ~90 km/hr
130 mm front drum, 110 mm rear drum with Synchronised Braking (SBT); telescopic front and 5-step adjustable rear suspension
Electric and kick start
Real-time mileage display, DRLs, USB charging port, grab rail with luggage hook (features may vary by variant)
₹59,880 – ₹83,984
Another Hero bike in the list, the HF Deluxe is a budget-friendly upgrade over the HF 100. Launched in 2020 in compliance with BS-VI, the HF Deluxe blends dependable performance with modern functionality, like LED lighting, i3S idle start-stop, and comfortable ergonomics. The HF Deluxe is one of the few commuter bikes to offer USB charging options in its segment.
Key Features and Specifications of Hero HF Deluxe
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder OHC
97.2 cc
6.15 kW (8.36 PS) @ 8000 rpm
8.05 Nm @ 6000 rpm
4-speed constant mesh
Approx. 85 km/hr
9.6 litres + 1 litre usable reserve
110 kg (kick-start) / 112 kg (self-start)
70 km/l
Kick and electric start
₹59,990 – ₹69,018
i3S technology, USB mobile charging port (select variants), side-stand engine cut-off, halogen headlamp
130 mm front drum and 110 mm rear drum with Integrated Braking System (IBS); telescopic hydraulic front and 2-step adjustable rear suspension
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India launched the CD 110 Dream as an affordable and dependable commuter bike for the masses. Designed with simplicity, comfort, and efficiency in mind, this model quickly became popular across tier-2 and rural markets. The CD 110 Dream was India’s most affordable Honda bike with a self-start option and sealed chain, reducing long-term maintenance costs.
Key Features and Specifications of Honda CD 110 Dream
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder with PGM-FI (fuel-injection)
109.19 cc
8.31 bhp @ 7500 rpm
9.09 Nm @ 5000 rpm
4-speed constant mesh
9.1 litres
112 kg
65 km/l
Self and kick-start
₹74,401 – ₹76,401
Approx. 86 km/hr
130 mm drum brakes (front and rear) with CBS; telescopic front fork and spring-loaded hydraulic rear shocks
Sealed chain, engine start-stop switch, 18-inch tubeless tyres, and long, padded seat
Bajaj Auto’s CT 110 is a commuter bike made for Indian roads. CT 110 is a durable, yet fuel efficient commuter bike that was introduced as a more powerful sibling to the CT 100, suited for both city and rural conditions. The CT 110X variant comes with semi-knobby tyres and a bash plate—making it one of the few commuter bikes ready for light off-road conditions!
Key Features and Specifications of Bajaj CT 110
4-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled
115.45 cc
8.6 PS @ 7000 rpm
9.81 Nm @ 5000 rpm
4-speed constant mesh
11 litres
118 kg
Approx. 90 km/hr
70 km/l
130 mm drum brakes at front and rear with CBS; hydraulic telescopic front and SNS rear suspension
Kick and self-start
Rubber tank pads, crash guard, wide footrests, semi-knobby tyres (on CT 110X), and engine bash plate
₹67,561 – ₹69,216
The Bajaj Pulsar 125 takes the iconic Pulsar styling and performance to the entry-level commuter segment. Introduced as the smallest Pulsar in the family, it retains the aggressive look, digital-analogue console, and performance DNA that made the Pulsar series a household name. Despite being a 125 cc bike, the Pulsar 125 shares its frame and design with the Pulsar 150, giving it a muscular look unmatched in its class.
Key Features and Specifications of Bajaj Pulsar 125
Air-cooled, single-cylinder, DTS-i engine
124.4 cc
11.8 PS @ 8500 rpm
10.8 Nm @ 6500 rpm
5-speed gearbox
11.5 litres
140 kg
Approx. 100 km/hr
57.5 km/l
Front disc (240 mm) or drum (170 mm); rear drum (130 mm); telescopic front fork and twin rear shocks
Electric start
Clip-on handlebars, backlit switchgear, semi-digital console, split grab rails, wolf-eyed headlamp
₹81,414 – ₹94,138
The Honda Unicorn is a trusted name in India’s 150 cc commuter segment. Launched in 2004, and has been updated over the years. Even today, it retains its classic styling and continues to appeal to mature riders who prefer subtlety over flash. The Honda Unicorn was the first Indian motorcycle to feature a mono-shock suspension, giving it superior comfort for its time.
Key Features and Specifications of Honda Unicorn
Single-cylinder, air-cooled, 4-stroke with PGM-FI
162.7 cc
12.91 PS @ 7500 rpm
14 Nm @ 5500 rpm
5-speed gearbox
13 litres
140 kg
Approx. 106 km/hr
62 km/l
Front disc (240 mm), rear drum (130 mm); telescopic front fork and mono-shock rear suspension
Self and kick-start
Single long seat, mono-shock absorber, hazard switch, premium chrome accents, and refined engine
₹1,09,800 – ₹1,10,000
Launched in July 2024, the Bajaj Freedom 125 is India’s first CNG-powered motorcycle. Freedom 125 is designed for limited emissions and fuel-cost efficiency. Bajaj Auto created this commuter marvel for riders seeking sustainability without sacrificing convenience. It comes with a dual-fuel system - you can switch between petrol and CNG on the go using a handlebar-mounted switch!
Key Features and Specifications of Bajaj Freedom 125
4-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder, dual-fuel (CNG + Petrol)
124.58 cc
9.5 PS @ 8000 rpm (CNG)
9.7 Nm @ 6000 rpm (CNG)
5-speed gearbox
2 litres (petrol) + 2 kg (CNG)
147 kg
Approx. 90 km/hr
Approx. 102 km/kg (CNG) and 65 km/l (petrol)
Front disc/drum and rear drum brakes; telescopic front and Nitrox mono-shock rear suspension
Electric and kick-start
LED headlamp, handlebar-mounted fuel switch, underseat CNG tank, digital speedometer, high ground clearance
₹95,000 – ₹1,10,000
Comparison of Top Commuter Bikes in India
Here’s a quick overview of the top commuter bikes in India:
Model | Engine | Mileage | Price Range |
---|---|---|---|
Hero Splendor Plus | 97.2 cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder OHC | 73 km/l (ARAI certified) | ₹75,000 – ₹80,000 |
Honda Shine | 123.94 cc, 4-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder PGM-FI | ~55 km/l | ₹85,000 – ₹90,800 |
Bajaj Platina 100 | 102 cc, 4-stroke, DTS-i, single-cylinder, air-cooled | 70 km/l (ARAI certified) | ₹70,600 – ₹75,000 |
TVS Radeon | 109.7 cc, 4-stroke, air-cooled Duralife, Eco-Thrust FI | 73.68 km/l (ARAI certified) | ₹59,880 – ₹83,984 |
Hero HF Deluxe | 97.2 cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder OHC | 70 km/l (ARAI certified) | ₹59,990 – ₹69,018 |
Honda CD 110 Dream | 109.19 cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder, PGM-FI | 65 km/l (ARAI certified) | ₹74,401 – ₹76,401 |
Bajaj CT 110 | 115.45 cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled | 70 km/l (ARAI certified) | ₹67,561 – ₹69,216 |
Bajaj Pulsar 125 | 124.4 cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder DTS-i | 57.5 km/l (ARAI certified) | ₹81,414 – ₹94,138 |
Honda Unicorn | 162.7 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, 4-stroke, PGM-FI | 62 km/l (ARAI certified) | ₹1,09,800 – ₹1,10,000 |
Bajaj Freedom 125 | 124.58 cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder, dual-fuel | 102 km/kg (CNG) (user-reported), 65 km/l (petrol) | ₹95,000 – ₹1,10,000 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Commuter Bike in India
To choose the right commuting bike, you need to factor in these things and weigh your options, aligning them with your budget:
Fuel Efficiency
Comfort
Maintenance Cost
Resale Value
Safety Features
The most important factor about buying a commuter bike is fuel efficiency. As you are going to use this bike for daily travel, you should consider buying the most cost-effective and fuel-efficient bike. But if you wish for a little bit of performance boost, you might have to compromise on fuel efficiency.
Daily travel requires comfort. Try to get a bike with upright seating, wide seats, and good suspension to handle long or bumpy city rides with ease.
As the bike is being used on a daily basis, normal wear and tear is certain to come. It means that the commuter bike will require regular maintenance. Ensure that the bike you purchase has minimum maintenance costs, as it will affect your overall running costs and budget in the long run.
If you wish to sell your bike after a certain period, you would probably want to choose bikes from brands like Hero, Honda, and Bajaj as they tend to retain value better, making it easier to sell or upgrade later.
You would want to have a safe ride to your office, college and for running errands. Travelling with two-wheelers is a bit risky, considering you have to navigate through daily traffic. Having a bike with maximum safety features is a safe bet, as long as it fits other criteria as well. Features like CBS (Combi Braking System), wider tyres, and good visibility (LED/DRL headlamps) enhance everyday road safety.
Upcoming Commuter Bikes in India in 2025
As EVs are emerging, they will revolutionise the world of commuter bikes in the upcoming years. Here are a few commuter bikes that have caught the attention of commuters that are about to be released in the coming years:
Model | Type | Est. Launch | Est. Price (₹) |
---|---|---|---|
TVS Fiero 125 | Petrol 125 cc | Dec 2025 | 80,000 |
Bajaj Platina 125 | Petrol 125 cc | Mar 2026 | 80,000 |
Yamaha RX 100 Retro | Petrol 100 cc | Dec 2026 | 100,000 |
Hero Splendor Electric | Electric | Jun 2027 | 99,000 |
Matter AERA 5000+ | EV (Available) | Mid 2025 (expansion) | 1.74–1.94 Lakh |
Conclusion
Purchasing a commuter bike is not a simple task – it requires planning, testing and a lot of thinking. A commuter bike will be your daily companion. So, before buying, make sure you are getting the best deal – a perfect balance between mileage, running costs, comfort and safety. In a similar way, buy two wheeler insurance for a commuter bike, as it is going to be your safety net as you ride daily with your two-wheeler commuter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which commuter bike offers the best fuel efficiency?
Bajaj Freedom 125, being a CNG bike, offers the best fuel efficiency.
Are there any commuter bikes with ABS?
From January 1, 2026, all new bikes manufactured must have ABS as per the new guidelines. However, currently, from the list, Pulsar, Matter, and Unicorn have ABS.
What is the most affordable commuter bike in India?
The Hero Splendor Plus is considered the most affordable and durable commuter bike in India.
Which commuter bike has the best resale value?
Unicorn and Splendor have excellent resale values.
Are there any upcoming electric commuter bikes?
Splendor EV and Matter 5000+ are upcoming commuter e-bikes.