Best Bikes for Beginners in India 2024

Owning a bike is a dream for many in India, be it a young person or an elder. There are a few key things to think about if you're considering purchasing a new bike. Starting from brands to model types available in the market, one needs to select the type of bike that would serve their purpose by keeping some key aspects in mind, such as performance, budget, and features.

Read on for information on various types of bikes and how to maintain, licence, and register for new riders.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bike For Beginners

While selecting a bike for beginners, there are a number of factors you should consider if you want to enjoy a comfortable ride. Following are the most crucial factors you should look for -

Purpose and riding style 

While choosing a bike, always keep in mind your purpose first. Whether you are using it for a commuter ride or want to go a long distance, or maybe off-road, each bike has different features to fulfil your needs. Choose one that will suit your needs and requirements.

Budget: 

A big factor is the budget. In purchasing, consider a budget that also includes additional expenses like insurance, gear, maintenance, and accessories. It helps in budgeting and valuing your money.

Engine Capacity and Performance : :

A bike with a capacity ranging from 150cc to 250cc is ideal for novices since bikes in that range normally will be easy to handle and give novices confidence in riding.

Comfort and Ergonomics : 

For longer rides, comfort becomes a paramount factor. Note the seating position, height of handlebars, and positioning of footpegs. If necessary, take a test drive to satisfy yourself that you feel comfortable and meet your ergonomic expectations.

Weight : 

First of all, lightweight bikes are recommended for beginners. It helps people win confidence in riding and controlling the bike.

Safety Features : 

Other most viewed factors of a bike are safety features. Modern safety features include Antilock Braking Systems, traction control, advanced lighting, etc. Safety helps newcomers handle a bike in various situations.

Maintain Cost::

Also, knowing the maintenance cost will be helpful, as some of the models have very expensive maintenance costs; hence, knowing the maintenance charge will help in budgeting your expenses or choosing the right one. 

Service Network :

Considering service networks is equally important. It helps get a better idea about the service facilities and thus facilitates better decisions.

Top Bikes for Beginners

• Hero Splendor Plus

• Price: ₹76,306 - ₹77,586
• Engine: 97.2 cc, single-cylinder
• Mileage: Approximately 65 km/l
• Features: Light, comfortable riding position; high fuel efficiency; best city commuter. 

• TVS Raider 125

• Price: ₹97,065
• Engine: 124.8 cc, Single cylinder 
• Mileage: Mileage is approximately 67 km/l 
• Features: Stylish design, good performance, and modern features like a digital speedometer. 

• Yamaha MT 15 V2

• Price ₹1.68 - ₹1.74 Lakh
• Engine: 155 cc, Liquid cooled 
• Mileage: 57 km/l approximately
• Features: Light, easily flickable, and packed with modern features like traction control and ABS.

• Honda SP 125

• Price: ₹87,380 
• Engine: 124 cc, single-cylinder 
• Mileage: 60 km/l.
• Features: Very good build quality, comfortable to ride daily with good fuel efficiency.

• Royal Enfield Hunter 350

• Price: ₹1.49 - ₹1.75 Lakh
• Engine: 349 cc, air-cooled
• Mileage: Approximately 35 km/l
• Features: The bike has great classic appeal, comfortable for moderately long rides, suited for city roads and highways.

All these bikes will suit entry-level bikers because of reasons such as comfort and manageability along with wide service networks.

Best Beginner-Friendly Sports Bikes

1. Yamaha MT 15 V2

Price: ₹1.99 - ₹2.04 Lakh

Engine: 155 cc, liquid-cooled

Power: 18.4 PS

Features: Light, agile handling, and advanced safety features, including dual-channel ABS and a really comfortable riding position.

2. TVS Apache RTR 160

Price: ₹1.44 - ₹1.53 Lakh

Engine: 159.7 cc, single-cylinder

Power: 17.3 PS

Features: The riding stance is comfortable. It fits the city commuter and occasionally takes the spirit of riding further.

3. Bajaj Pulsar NS200

Price: ₹1.87 Lakh

Engine: 199 cc, liquid-cooled

Power: 24.5

Power: 11.38 PS

Features: Sporty but lightweight design, good mileage.

4. TVS Raider 125

• Price: ₹1.12 - ₹1.21 Lakh
• Engine: 124.8 cc, single-cylinder
• Power: 11.38 PS
• Features: Sporty design, easy to handle, and good mileage.

5. Yamaha R15 V4

Price: ₹2.15 - ₹2.33 Lakh

Engine: 155 cc, liquid-cooled

Power: 18.6 PS

Features: Sporty design with advanced features such as traction control.

Ideal Scooters for New Riders

1. Honda Activa 6G
• Price: ₹74,536 - ₹82,734
• Engine: 109.51 cc
• Mileage: Approximately 45 km/l
• Features: Reliable, easy to handle, comfortable riding position, and a combined braking system.

1. Suzuki Access 125
• Price: ₹79,900 - ₹90,500
• Engine: 124 cc
• Mileage: Approximately 64 km/l
• Features: Power and fuel-efficient design, lightweight, easy to handle for beginners.

3. TVS Jupiter

• Price: ₹73,650 - ₹90,573
• Engine: 109.7 cc
• Mileage: Approximately 62 km/l
• Features: Comfortable seat and ample storage space.

4. TVS NTORQ 125

• Price: ₹84,636 - ₹1.05 Lakh
• Engine: 124.8 cc
• Mileage: Approximately 56.23 km/l
• Features: Sporty design, Bluetooth connectivity, digital instrument cluster.

5. Honda Dio

• Price: ₹70,211 - ₹77,712
• Engine: 109.51 cc
• Mileage: Approximately 50 km/l
• Features: lightweight, stylish, and easy to handle.

6. Yamaha Ray ZR 125

• Price: ₹84,730
• Engine: 125 cc
• Mileage: Approximately 71.33 km/l
• Features: Sporty and lightweight design and handle.

Electric Bikes for Beginners

1. Hero Electric Optima LX
• Price: ₹68,721 - ₹72,971
• Battery: 48V, 28Ah Lead Acid
• Range: 60-80 km
• Top Speed: 25 km/h
• Features: Comfortable seating, low maintenance, and easy to handle.

2. Okinawa Praise Pro

• Price: ₹1.01 - ₹1.05 Lakh
• Battery: 60V, 50Ah Lithium-ion
• Range: 130-150 km
• Top Speed: 55 km/h
• Features: Lightweight, good range, mobile charging, and anti-theft alarm.

3. Ampere Magnus Pro

• Price: ₹73,990
• Battery: 60V, 30Ah Lead Acid
• Range: 75-85 km
• Top Speed: 25 km/h
• Features: Comfortable ride, low maintenance, and suitable for city commuting.

4. Ather 450X

• Price: ₹1.54 - ₹1.68 Lakh
• Battery: 3.3 kWh Lithium-ion
• Range: 116 km
• Top Speed: 80 km/h
• Features: Powerful performance, touchscreen display, and mobile connectivity.

5. Revolt RV400

• Price: ₹1.39 - ₹1.44 Lakh
• Battery: 3.24 kWh Lithium-ion
• Range: 150 km
• Top Speed: 85 km/h
• Features: Stylish design, swappable battery, and connected features.

Best Bikes for Women Beginners

1. Royal Enfield Meteor 350
• Price: ₹2,05,528
• Engine: 349 cc
• Features: Comfortable cruiser style, low seat height, smooth handling, and easy for beginners to handle.

1. TVS Apache RTR 200 4V
• Price: ₹1,49,042
• Engine: 197.75 cc
• Features: Sporty design with good power, lightweight frame, and user-friendly features like a digital instrument cluster.

1. Yamaha R15 V4
• Price: ₹1,82,000 - ₹1,90,000
• Engine: 155 cc
• Features: Sporty aesthetics, lightweight, and advanced safety features like ABS.

1. Honda Shine
• Price: ₹80,250 - ₹84,250
• Engine: 124 cc
• Features: Reliable, comfortable, good mileage, ideal for city commuting.

1. Bajaj Pulsar NS200
• Price: ₹1,49,000
• Engine: 199 cc
• Features: Sporty design, suitable for new riders who want more power.

1. Hero Splendor Plus
• Price: ₹76,306 - ₹77,586
• Engine: 97.2 cc
• Features: Lightweight and fuel-efficient, ideal for commuter bikes.

1. Yamaha FZS Fi V4
• Price: ₹1,20,000
• Engine: 149 cc
• Features: Stylish design, Good mileage, and Suitable for new riders.

Maintenance Tips for New Bike Owners

Bike owners should take good care of their bikes to smoothly ride their bikes and, above all, safely. Following are some general tips for new bikes' maintenance.

• Follow the owner manual:

The owner's manual has every single detail you need to know about your bike requirements. It can give you the proper knowledge of the intervals when oil changes, air filter replacements, tune-ups, etc., are required.

• Checking oil levels :

In order to keep it in a good working condition, you must check the level of the oil from time to time and change it according to the instructions. Only high-quality oils must be used, along with proper disposal of the used oil.

• Tire pressure:  

The pressure in the tires must be taken seriously. A worn-out tire is seriously not recommended as this may result in a skid.

• Clean and lube the chain: 

Cleaning and lubricating the chain is very important. Clean with brush and paraffin. Lubricate with old engine oil to prevent rust.

• Adjust the clutch and brakes:

Let the clutch and brakes be free to press; otherwise, it can be slippy. Please keep it in the proper position to avoid any mishaps.

• Maintain the air filter : 

Always keep the air filter clear; it helps provide better performance related to engine and fuel efficiency.

• Pay attention to unusual noises: 

Basically, it keeps your bike on top whenever you pay attention to any unwanted noise such as knocking, rattling, or grinding as indications of any detects.

Licensing and Registration Process for New Riders

New riders can be licensed upon following some simple steps, which are specified as follows :

• Learner Licence : 

You will need to start with a learner licence to get a new licence. It is usually valid for a period of 6 months. You can either apply online from the Parivahan website or pay a visit to your local RTO. It requires basic documents like age proof and address proof, along with an application fee of ₹ 150.

• Permanent Licence Application: 

You will be able to apply for a permanent licence after 30 days with a learner licence. You will be able to apply online with all the required documents, book an available slot to drive, and pay the approximate application fees ₹200.

• Driving Test:

You will be able to take the driving test at any RTO or accredited private driving school. If you pass it, you will be given a certificate for your licence.

• Documentation:

It is better to reach the RTO or driving school with all original documents along with the fee slip.

FAQs

Q. Which is The Top-selling Bike in India?
Hero Splendour has the tag of being the highest-selling bike in India. It sold 2,62,249 units in May 2022.

Q. Which Bike is No 1 in Mileage?

Hero Splendor Plus XTEC gives the best mileage of 95 kmpl, followed by Splendor Plus running 80 kmpl and TVS Sport running 70 kmpl.

Q. Which Bike is Used in KGF?

Hero Karizma R is transferred into the KGF bike.

Q. Which is the devil bike in India?

The Ducati Diavel V4, commonly known as the devil bike, is a power cruiser with a road price of Rs 29.40 lakh in Delhi.