Best Bikes Under 1 lakh for College Students in India 2024

For a college student in India, having a bike is not just about commuting; it's a statement, a convenience, and sometimes, even a necessity. With the vast array of options available in the market, choosing a bike that is stylish, economical, and robust can be quite a daunting task. If you are on a budget and looking for options that won’t make a deep hole in your pocket, yet stand up to your expectations, then you're in the right place. We’ve compiled a list of bikes that are cost-effective, and at the same time, deliver reasonable performance and mileage. These bikes have been chosen keeping in mind their affordability, functionality, and appeal to the youth. Let’s dive in and explore the best bikes for college students under 1 lakh in India in 2024.

17 best bikes for college students under 1 lakh

India has a competitive market when it comes to bikes. Wondering which is the best bike for youth under 1 lakh? With a variety of options to choose from, here are the top 17 bikes that are both budget-friendly and stylish! 

1. TVS Sport - Price: Rs. 63,950 Onwards

Starting off our list is the TVS Sport. This bike is not only pocket-friendly but also a remarkable performer on the road. Priced at a modest Rs. 63,950 onwards, it is a steal for anyone looking for a durable and economical option. Let's take a closer look at what this bike has to offer:

- Performance: Equipped with a 109.7 cc engine, the TVS Sport offers a smooth and comfortable ride. Its robust engine ensures that you have the power and performance at your fingertips, making it ideal for daily commuting.

- Mileage: When it comes to fuel efficiency, the TVS Sport doesn’t disappoint. With a commendable mileage of around 75 kmpl, it ensures that you save every penny on fuel, making it a great choice for students.

- Design and Features: The TVS Sport comes with an appealing design that is sure to turn heads. Its sleek body and stylish graphics make it stand out, making it a popular choice among the youth. Additionally, it is equipped with features like comfortable seats, a user-friendly speedometer, and a sturdy suspension system that ensures a comfortable ride.

- Verdict: TVS Sport is an excellent option for college students who are looking for a combination of style, performance, and economy. Its price point and features make it a top choice for those wanting to maintain a balance between practicality and style.

2. Honda CD 110 Dream - Price: Rs. 70,315 Onwards

The Honda CD 110 Dream is another fantastic option for college students. Honda has always been synonymous with reliability and performance, and this bike is no exception. Let’s dive deeper into the aspects that make this bike a noteworthy contender:

- Performance: With a 109.51 cc engine, the Honda CD 110 Dream brings a decent amount of power to the table. It’s suitable for everyday commuting, providing a smooth ride with its reliable engine.

- Mileage: In terms of fuel efficiency, this bike does quite well. It offers a mileage of around 65 kmpl, ensuring that you get the most out of each litre of petrol. This is particularly advantageous for students who are mindful of their daily expenses.

- Design and Features: The bike sports a simplistic yet stylish design, which is quite appealing. It is equipped with necessary features such as a maintenance-free battery and a tubeless tyre, adding to the bike’s durability and reducing maintenance worries.

- Verdict: The Honda CD 110 Dream is a wise choice for those who seek reliability and efficiency. Its performance and design make it suitable for daily commuting, ensuring that you ride in style without burning a hole in your pocket.

3. TVS Star City Plus - Price: Rs. 71,200 Onwards

TVS Star City Plus is another exceptional bike that perfectly blends style with performance. It comes with attractive features and a price tag that is just as appealing. Here are some highlights:

- Performance: Powered by a 109.7 cc engine, the Star City Plus is adept at providing a comfortable and smooth riding experience. Its responsive engine ensures that the bike performs consistently, making it a robust option for daily commutes.

- Mileage: When it comes to mileage, the Star City Plus stands out, offering around 86 kmpl. This is a significant advantage for students who are conscious of their spending, ensuring that fuel costs are kept to a minimum.

- Design and Features: The design of the TVS Star City Plus is vibrant and youthful. Its sharp graphics and stylish body are bound to make a statement. The bike also includes features like LED headlamps and a semi-digital speedometer, adding to its modern appeal.

- Verdict: The TVS Star City Plus is a splendid option that offers brilliant mileage and performance. It is not only budget-friendly but also packs in features that make it a great value for money, making it an excellent option for college students in India.

4. Bajaj Pulsar 125 - Price: Rs. 72,200 Onwards

Entering the arena is the Bajaj Pulsar 125, a bike that carries the legacy of the renowned Pulsar series with a touch of modernity and efficiency. Tailored especially for those who seek a combination of style and power on a budget, let’s unravel what the Pulsar 125 has in store:

- Performance: Boasting a 124.4 cc engine, the Pulsar 125 packs a punch when it comes to performance. Its engine ensures a zestful ride, living up to the Pulsar’s legacy of being a performance-oriented bike.

- Mileage: The Pulsar 125 doesn’t fall short in the mileage department either, offering around 57 kmpl. It balances power and efficiency well, ensuring that you get a peppy ride without spending too much on fuel.

- Design and Features: With its sporty design, the Pulsar 125 is bound to attract attention. Carrying forward the iconic design of the Pulsar series, it also comes equipped with modern features like a digital speedometer and backlit switches, adding a touch of sophistication.

- Verdict: If you're looking for a bike that doesn’t compromise on performance while being economical, the Bajaj Pulsar 125 is a commendable option. Its unique features and strong performance make it an excellent choice for college students.

5. Hero Passion Pro i3S - Price: Rs. 72,320 Onwards

Hero Passion Pro i3S is a bike that stands out due to its remarkable features and elegant design. A favourite among commuters, especially students, this bike offers a blend of excellent features and affordability. Here’s why it could be your ideal choice:

- Performance: Powered by a 113 cc engine, the Passion Pro i3S is robust and reliable. Its performance is smooth, making it ideal for daily commutes, ensuring that your ride is always comfortable and effortless.

- Mileage: The Passion Pro i3S shines when it comes to mileage, offering an impressive 60 kmpl. This efficient fuel consumption ensures that your daily travel expenses are minimal, aligning perfectly with a student's budget.

- Design and Features: The design of the Passion Pro i3S is appealing, with stylish body graphics and a sleek silhouette. In addition, it offers practical features such as the i3S technology, which helps in saving fuel, and a comfortable seat ensuring a relaxed ride.

- Verdict: Hero Passion Pro i3S is an excellent choice for those who value efficiency and comfort. Its features, combined with its attractive design and outstanding mileage, make it a superb option for college students navigating through their daily commutes.

6. Honda CB Shine - Price: Rs. 72,800 Onwards

The Honda CB Shine comes riding high on reliability and is a hot favourite among individuals who crave a dependable daily commuter. Its seamless blend of style and functionality makes it a tempting choice for college students. Here's a closer look at its offerings:

- Performance: Equipped with a powerful 124 cc engine, the CB Shine promises an energetic performance. Its solid engine makes commuting a breeze, ensuring you have a smooth ride to and from your college and other activities.

- Mileage: The bike stands strong in the mileage aspect, delivering around 65 kmpl. This ensures that you can ride extensively without worrying much about fuel costs, a definite plus for students managing expenses.

- Design and Features: The CB Shine carries a refined and sophisticated design that exudes elegance. Its features such as the Combi-Brake System (CBS) and stylish graphics enhance its appeal, making it a functional yet stylish bike to own.

- Verdict: Honda CB Shine is a splendid option if you’re seeking reliability paired with a decent performance. Its robust build and thoughtful features make it a worthwhile investment for college students looking for a dependable commuting partner.

7. Hero Super Splendor - Price: Rs. 73,900 Onwards

Hero Super Splendor presents itself as a practical and efficient choice for those who value substance. It’s a bike that offers a blend of robust performance and utilitarian features. Let's delve deeper into what makes this bike a worthy contender:

- Performance: With a 125 cc engine under its hood, the Super Splendor offers a balanced performance for daily commuting. Its engine is tuned to offer reliability, ensuring that your journeys are always smooth and hassle-free.

- Mileage: In terms of mileage, the Super Splendor is impressive, offering around 61 kmpl. This economical fuel consumption ensures that the bike is easy on your pocket, aligning well with a student's budgetary constraints.

- Design and Features: While maintaining a simple design, the Super Splendor doesn’t lack in modern features. It comes equipped with i3S technology for better fuel-saving and practical design aspects that make riding more comfortable and convenient.

- Verdict: Hero Super Splendor stands as a pragmatic choice for students who prioritise efficiency and reliability. Its thoughtful design and reliable performance ensure that you have a trouble-free riding experience, making it a good investment for daily commuting.

8. Hero Glamour 125 - Price: Rs. 74,900 Onwards

The Hero Glamour 125 is all about riding in style without compromising on performance. This bike, with its alluring aesthetics and compelling features, makes a strong case for itself, especially among college students who want to make a statement. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

- Performance: Armed with a 125 cc engine, the Glamour 125 provides a sturdy and reliable performance. Its engine is finely tuned to ensure that every ride is smooth and pleasurable, making it ideal for the daily commute.

- Mileage: Mileage is a strong suit of the Glamour 125. With an estimated fuel efficiency of around 60 kmpl, it assures that your regular rides are cost-effective, which is an essential factor for students who are mindful of their expenses.

- Design and Features: The Glamour 125 lives up to its name with a sleek design and vibrant graphics. The stylish appearance is complemented by features like Auto Sail Technology and a muscular fuel tank, enhancing both its look and functionality.

- Verdict: The Hero Glamour 125 could be a great pick if you value a combination of aesthetics and efficiency. It’s not just about looks; its performance and mileage make it a practical choice for college students seeking a balance of style and functionality.

9. Honda SP 125 - Price: Rs. 78,400 Onwards

Honda SP 125 is a commendable blend of innovation and performance. It brings to the table features that are modern, ensuring that your riding experience is both exciting and efficient. Let’s explore the aspects that make it stand out:

- Performance: With a 124 cc engine, the SP 125 ensures that you have a powerful performance at your disposal. Its refined engine guarantees a seamless riding experience, essential for daily commutes in bustling city traffic.

- Mileage: Honda SP 125 is quite efficient when it comes to fuel consumption, boasting a mileage of around 65 kmpl. This economic mileage ensures that the bike contributes to substantial savings on fuel costs over time.

- Design and Features: The design of the SP 125 is modern and captivating. Apart from its appealing look, it comes equipped with features such as a silent start system and an integrated headlamp beam, enhancing its overall utility and appeal.

- Verdict: If modern features and a robust performance are what you seek, the Honda SP 125 could be a brilliant choice. Its array of features, coupled with a powerful engine, make it a suitable option for college students looking for a well-rounded biking experience.

10. TVS Raider 125 - Price: Rs. 84,600 Onwards

The TVS Raider 125 is a fresh addition to the array of motorcycles catered towards the youth. With its dynamic design and innovative features, the Raider 125 makes a robust impression, ensuring that every ride is as thrilling as the last. Let’s explore what this bike has to offer:

- Performance: The Raider 125 houses a 124.8 cc engine, ensuring punchy performance on the roads. Tailored to deliver a lively riding experience, the bike’s engine performs efficiently, ensuring that every journey is exciting and spirited.

- Mileage: On the fuel efficiency front, the Raider 125 does quite well by offering a mileage of approximately 67 kmpl. This economic performance ensures that the bike is as light on the pocket as it is thrilling on the roads.

- Design and Features: TVS has infused the Raider 125 with a sporty and aggressive design, aimed at capturing the essence of youthfulness. Along with its striking appearance, it houses features such as a digital speedometer and LED lights, amplifying its contemporary appeal.

- Verdict: For those who crave a blend of innovation, performance, and style, the TVS Raider 125 is a captivating choice. Its diverse array of features and powerful presence makes it an attractive option for college students looking to make a strong impression.

11. Hero Glamour Xtec - Price: Rs. 84,800 Onwards

Hero Glamour Xtec comes as a blend of sophistication and technology, making its mark as a bike that combines traditional values with modern allure. Catering to those who appreciate a well-rounded biking experience, the Glamour Xtec has quite a bit to offer:

- Performance: Housing a 124.7 cc engine, the Glamour Xtec ensures that your rides are consistently powerful and smooth. The bike’s engine is tuned to deliver an efficient performance that resonates with the practical needs of daily commuting.

- Mileage: Fuel efficiency is one of its strong suits, offering an admirable mileage of around 60 kmpl. This attribute ensures that your daily commuting expenses are kept in check, aligning well with the budget of a college student.

- Design and Features: The Glamour Xtec carries a refined design enriched with features like a fully digital instrument console and Bluetooth connectivity. These features not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also boost its functional value, making rides more convenient and enjoyable.

- Verdict: Hero Glamour Xtec emerges as a thoughtfully designed bike that harmonises tradition and technology. It’s a suitable choice for those who value a seamless blend of style, practicality, and innovative features, ensuring that every ride is a delightful experience.

12. Bajaj Pulsar NS 125 - Price: Rs. 93,800 Onwards

The Bajaj Pulsar NS 125 comes roaring into this list with a legacy of performance and style. Designed to captivate and engineered to perform, this bike holds a special place for those who desire a vibrant riding experience. Here’s what makes it stand out:

- Performance: The NS 125 hosts a powerful 124.4 cc engine, delivering a performance that resonates with the adrenaline seekers. This bike promises to bring excitement to your daily commutes, making every ride an adventure.

- Mileage: In terms of efficiency, the NS 125 offers a commendable mileage of around 50 kmpl. This ensures that you can enjoy its thrilling performance without feeling the pinch at the petrol pump.

- Design and Features: With an aggressive design and sporty aesthetics, the NS 125 is a visual delight. It embodies the Pulsar’s legacy of sporty design, and it’s complemented by contemporary features such as a perimeter frame and a nitrox mono-shock absorber, which enhance riding dynamics.

- Verdict: For those who want their daily rides sprinkled with excitement, the Bajaj Pulsar NS 125 is a fantastic choice. Its thrilling performance, coupled with stylish design, makes it an appealing option for college students eager to make a statement.

13. Bajaj Pulsar 150 - Price: Rs. 95,900 Onwards

A classic that has remained a favourite among bike enthusiasts, the Bajaj Pulsar 150, brings reliability paired with a strong performance pedigree. It is a bike that has evolved to meet the needs of the modern rider while retaining its robust essence. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

- Performance: Boasting a 149.5 cc engine, the Pulsar 150 delivers a muscular performance that lives up to its reputation. It offers a powerful riding experience, ensuring that it lives up to the expectations of being a sturdy and reliable bike.

- Mileage: The Pulsar 150 is balanced when it comes to fuel efficiency, offering a mileage of around 50 kmpl. This ensures that the bike’s strong performance is matched with reasonable fuel economy, a critical aspect for daily commuters.

- Design and Features: Carrying forward the iconic Pulsar design, this bike is equipped with practical features such as comfortable seating and effective shock absorbers, ensuring a pleasant riding experience. 

- Verdict: The Bajaj Pulsar 150 is a trustworthy option for those who seek a proven performer. Its legacy of reliability, coupled with a powerful performance, makes it a solid choice for college students who need a dependable ride for their daily commutes.

14. Honda CB Unicorn 160 - Price: Rs. 98,900 Onwards

The Honda CB Unicorn 160 gracefully combines performance with comfort. Tailored for those who seek a bike that effortlessly adapts to various riding conditions, this motorcycle embodies versatility and style. Here’s a closer look at what it has to offer:

- Performance: With a 162.71 cc engine, the Unicorn 160 ensures a smooth and potent performance. It’s tuned to provide a balanced riding experience, making it adept at handling both city streets and long rides with equal finesse.

- Mileage: The Unicorn 160 offers a respectable mileage of around 62 kmpl. Its fuel efficiency ensures that you get a fantastic riding experience without the frequent worry of refuelling, a much-appreciated trait for college students.

- Design and Features: The bike boasts a sleek design with an emphasis on comfort and practicality. Features such as a monoshock rear suspension and a comfortable seat enhance its usability, ensuring that every ride is as comfortable as it is thrilling.

- Verdict: If you’re looking for a bike that balances performance, style, and comfort, the Honda CB Unicorn 160 could be a worthy contender. Its thoughtful design and efficient performance make it an excellent choice for daily commuting and occasional long rides.

15. Yamaha FZ S V3.0 FI - Price: Rs. 99,200 Onwards

Yamaha FZ S V3.0 FI emerges as a motorcycle that packs a punch in terms of style and performance. With its muscular aesthetics and innovative features, it’s a bike that aims to deliver a dynamic and fulfilling riding experience. Here’s why it stands out:

- Performance: Armed with a 149 cc engine, the FZ S V3.0 delivers a lively and engaging riding experience. The bike is designed to offer a performance that is both robust and refined, ensuring that you always ride in style.

- Mileage: When it comes to fuel efficiency, this Yamaha bike performs reasonably well by offering around 45 kmpl. This ensures a balance between performance and economy, suiting the needs of college students.

- Design and Features: Yamaha has equipped the bike with a host of features and a bold design. With its LED headlights, negative LCD instrument cluster, and stylish graphics, the bike has a modern appeal that is hard to ignore.

- Verdict: Yamaha FZ S V3.0 FI could be a great choice if you value a combination of aesthetics and robust performance. Its stylish design, paired with practical features, makes it an attractive option for college students looking to make a statement on the roads.

16. Hero Super Splendor Xtec - Price: Rs. 84,000 Onwards

The Hero Super Splendor Xtec is a fine blend of tradition and modernity. With its impressive features and sturdy build, this bike is designed to offer a gratifying and reliable riding experience. Let’s delve into the specifics:

- Performance: Equipped with a 124.7 cc engine, the Super Splendor Xtec provides reassuring performance, ensuring that the rider has enough power for daily commutes and more. The engine is tuned for practicality and efficiency, making it ideal for everyday use.

- Mileage: With a focus on economic performance, the Super Splendor Xtec offers an impressive mileage of around 65 kmpl. This economical approach ensures that the bike is a pocket-friendly option, particularly appealing to college students.

- Design and Features: The bike’s design is pragmatic with a touch of modern aesthetics. Enhanced features like a digital-analogue speedometer, side stand indicator, and service reminder add a layer of convenience and functionality to the riding experience.

- Verdict: The Hero Super Splendor Xtec is a practical choice for those who value reliability, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly features. Its design and performance are curated with the everyday rider in mind, making it a suitable option for college students.

17. Honda Livo - Price: Rs. 88,000 Onwards

Honda Livo makes its mark with a stylish presence and a performance that resonates with the youth. Its sleek design, paired with a dependable performance, creates a package that is both attractive and reliable. Here’s a breakdown of what it offers:

- Performance: Honda Livo comes with a 109.51 cc engine that delivers a solid performance for daily commuting needs. Its engine ensures that the bike performs consistently, offering a smooth and enjoyable ride.

- Mileage: In terms of fuel efficiency, the Livo is commendable, boasting a mileage of approximately 60 kmpl. This focus on mileage ensures that the bike is economical, aligning well with the budget constraints of college students.

- Design and Features: The Livo showcases a modern design with sharp lines and attractive graphics. Features like a stylish headlamp, comfortable seat, and extended grab rail contribute to its visual appeal as well as its functionality.

- Verdict: If a combination of modern styling and reliable performance is what you seek, the Honda Livo could be an ideal choice. Its overall package makes it a promising option for college students looking for a bike that meets their daily commuting needs with flair.

Each bike in this segment has been analysed and presented keeping in mind the varied needs of college students. These options offer a blend of style, performance, and practicality to ensure that your riding experience is nothing short of exceptional. 

How to pick the best bikes for students under 1 lakh?

Choosing the right bike is a crucial decision, especially when you are on a budget. The market offers a multitude of options, each with its unique features and capabilities. But worry not! Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice without feeling overwhelmed.

1. Define Your Needs: 

   Begin by assessing your primary needs. Are you looking for a bike for daily commuting, or do you want something for long rides and adventures? Understanding your requirements will help you narrow down the options.

2. Focus on Mileage:

   For most college students, a bike with good mileage is a practical choice. It ensures that your bike is economical in the long run, saving you a significant amount over time. Look for bikes that offer a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency.

3. Consider the Maintenance Cost:

   Some bikes may be cheaper to buy but more expensive to maintain. Research the maintenance costs of the bikes you are considering. A bike that is easy and economical to maintain will prove to be a better choice in the long run.

4. Comfort and Ergonomics:

   Your bike should be comfortable, especially if you plan to use it for daily commuting. Consider the seating position, handlebar reach, and footpeg position. Test ride the bikes to ensure they fit your body shape and riding style comfortably.

5. Look at the Features:

   Modern bikes come with a variety of features such as digital displays, LED lights, and enhanced safety features. While some features enhance the riding experience, others may be more about aesthetics. Choose a bike with features that align with your preferences and needs.

6. Brand and After-Sales Service:

   Consider the reputation of the brand and the quality of its after-sales service. Having access to good service centres and spare parts is essential for the maintenance of your bike.

7. Insurance:

   Be on the look-out for bike insurance prices, there are some models which might have higher comprehensive bike insurance rates as compared to others.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of bikes under Rs 1 lakh can seem challenging, but with a little guidance and clarity on what you value most in a bike, finding the perfect match becomes a more manageable task. The options listed in this blog provide a diverse range, from the purely practical to those sprinkled with a touch of sportiness and adventure.

Remember, the best bike for you is one that fits your personal needs, preferences, and budget. It should resonate with your style, offer comfort, and ensure reliability and performance that you can count on. So, equip yourself with the necessary information, evaluate your options, and get ready to zoom into new experiences with the bike that perfectly complements your college life! 

FAQs

1. Q: Which bike is the most fuel-efficient in the under 1 lakh category?

   A: Different bikes offer varying levels of fuel efficiency. However, bikes like the TVS Sport and Hero Super Splendor Xtec are known to deliver impressive mileage, making them highly fuel-efficient options in this category.

2. Q: Are there sporty bikes available under Rs 1 lakh?

   A: Yes, there are bikes like the Bajaj Pulsar 125 and Yamaha FZ S V3.0 FI, which offer sporty aesthetics and a performance-oriented ride, keeping the budget under Rs 1 lakh.

3. Q: Which bikes are suitable for long-distance travel under Rs 1 lakh?

   A: Bikes like the Honda CB Unicorn 160 and Bajaj Pulsar 150 are more suitable for long-distance travel due to their comfortable ergonomics and powerful engines.

4. Q: Can I get a bike with digital features and modern aesthetics under Rs 1 lakh?

   A: Absolutely! Bikes like the Yamaha FZ S V3.0 FI and Hero Glamour Xtec come equipped with digital displays, stylish designs, and other modern features, all within the Rs 1 lakh budget.

5. Q: Are these bikes under Rs 1 lakh suitable for daily commuting?

   A: Yes, most bikes listed here, like the Honda Livo and TVS Star City Plus, are tailored for daily commuting, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency.

6. Q: What should be my primary considerations when choosing a bike for college?

   A: Consider factors such as mileage, maintenance cost, comfort, brand reliability, and after-sales service when choosing a bike for college.

7. Q: How important is after-sales service in choosing a bike?

   A: After-sales service is crucial as it ensures that your bike gets proper maintenance and care, which is essential for its performance and longevity.

8. Q: Are there any electric bikes available under Rs 1 lakh?

   A: While the market for electric bikes is growing, finding a comprehensive electric bike option under Rs 1 lakh might still be challenging. However, some basic electric scooters might fit the budget.

9. Q: How can I assess the comfort of a bike before buying?

   A: Taking a test ride is the best way to assess a bike's comfort. It allows you to experience the bike’s ergonomics, seating, and overall ride quality.

10. Q: Should I also consider the resale value of the bike?

   A: Yes, considering the resale value is wise. Bikes from reputable brands with a strong service network tend to hold their value better over time.