Best starter bikes mark a meaningful beginning for any new rider—combining practicality, confidence, and a touch of thrill. Choosing your first motorcycle isn’t just about picking a machine; it’s about finding the right balance of comfort, control, and performance that matches your learning curve. It’s a milestone filled with excitement and anticipation, opening the door to new adventures, whether it’s navigating city traffic or enjoying weekend getaways.
A well-chosen starter bike makes the riding experience more enjoyable and safer, helping build skills without overwhelming the rider. From smooth power delivery and manageable weight to essential features like ABS and comfortable ergonomics, the best beginner bikes are designed to grow with you. More than a purchase, it’s your first step toward the freedom of the open road.
That’s why this guide spotlights five exceptional bikes under ₹1.5 lakh that blend eye-catching style, lively performance, fuel‑friendly mileage, and beginner‑friendly ease.
Each model is thoughtfully designed with new riders in mind—featuring moderate seat heights, smooth throttle response, modern safety aids like ABS, and mileage that minimizes refueling stops. Whether you’re weaving through city traffic or cruising on open roads, these motorcycles deliver reliability, comfort, and fun from your very first ride.
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V delivers top-tier performance, generating a best-in-class 17.55 PS from its 159.7 cc, oil-cooled, 4‑valve engine. It offers three ride modes: Sport, Urban, and Rain, so you can adjust power delivery and ABS response to suit traffic, wet weather, or open roads.
The bike boasts TVS SmartXonnect, which pairs your phone via Bluetooth to the digital console for navigation, call/SMS alerts, voice assist, and ride analytics. There’s also Glide Through Technology (GTT), which gently nudges the bike forward in slow traffic without needing the throttle, perfect for city riding.
Handling gets a major boost from the 37 mm upside‑down (USD) front forks (top model), adding great stability and comfort. Braking is reliable thanks to dual-channel ABS with rear wheel lift-off protection and petal discs front and rear.
Styling is modern and race-inspired with LED headlights and tail lamps, a punchy bullpup exhaust, a sporty digital cluster, and adjustable clutch and brake levers for better ergonomics.
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is priced at approximately ₹1.30 lakh (ex-showroom) for the mid-range dual-disc variant.
Bajaj Pulsar N160
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is a sporty commuter bike powered by a 164.82cc air-/oil-cooled engine that delivers 16 PS and 14.65 Nm, paired with a smooth 5-speed gearbox. Built on a perimeter frame, it offers excellent ride stability and handling, making it suitable for both city and highway use.
It features a 300 mm front disc, 230 mm rear disc, and dual-channel ABS for strong, controlled braking. The suspension setup includes a telescopic fork and rear mono-shock tuned for a balanced ride.
Additional features include an LED projector headlamp, USB charger, and semi-digital console. With a 14-litre fuel tank and real-world mileage of 45–50 kmpl, the Pulsar N160 is efficient, well-equipped, and competitively priced, starting around ₹1.25 lakh (ex-showroom).
Hero Xtreme 160R 4V
The Hero Xtreme 160R 4V delivers strong and refined performance, thanks to its 4-valve engine that offers smooth power delivery across the rev range. It’s quick off the line, easy to handle in traffic, and remains vibration-free up to cruising speeds of 90 kmph—though slight buzz is felt near the redline. The 5-speed gearbox shifts smoothly, and the light clutch makes it ideal for daily commuting as well as weekend rides.
In terms of ride and features, the Hero Xtreme 160R 4V stands out with KYB USD forks, a 7-step adjustable rear monoshock, and stable, confident handling through corners. It offers a comfortable upright riding posture and strong high-speed stability.
The bike delivers a practical mileage of 40–45 kmpl, with some users reporting up to 50 kmpl. Key features include an LCD console with improved brightness, a redesigned tail section, and optional dual-channel ABS in newer models. With an ex-showroom price starting around ₹1.28 lakh, it offers great value as a well-rounded 160cc streetfighter.
Yamaha FZ-S FI Hybrid
The Yamaha FZ-S FI Hybrid is designed for hassle-free city commuting with its smooth 149cc engine and hybrid tech. The Smart Motor Generator ensures quiet starts and better fuel efficiency, while the linear power delivery makes it easy to ride in traffic.
Its light weight, upright seating, and comfortable suspension offer a relaxed and nimble ride. Packed with features like a TFT display and Bluetooth connectivity, the FZ-S Hybrid blends modern tech with everyday practicality. Priced from ₹1.22 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s a smart choice for urban riders.
Honda SP 160
The Honda SP 160 is a sporty commuter powered by a 162.71cc air-cooled engine producing 13 bhp and 14.8 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. It offers a smooth ride with telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock.
Braking is handled by a 276mm front disc and either a 220mm rear disc or 130mm drum, with single-channel ABS. It features 17-inch alloy wheels, tubeless tires, and weighs 138–140 kg depending on the variant.
With a 12-liter fuel tank, 796mm seat height, and modern looks including LED headlamps and bold graphics, it’s available in 4 colors. Price starts at ₹1.18 lakh (ex-showroom).
Bike Comparison 2025: Best Models & Specs
| Bike Name | Engine | Max Power | Max Torque | Mileage (approx.) | Kerb Weight | Fuel Tank | Brakes / ABS | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | 159.7 cc, oil-cooled, 4V | 17.55 PS @ 9,250 rpm | 14.7 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 47–48 kmpl | 146 kg | 12 L | Dual-channel ABS, Disc | Ride modes, Bluetooth, Glide Through Tech |
| Bajaj Pulsar N160 | 164.8 cc, air-cooled | 16 PS @ 8,750 rpm | 14.6 Nm @ 6,750 rpm | 59 kmpl | 154 kg | 14 L | Dual-channel ABS, Disc | LED Headlamp, Digital Console |
| Hero Xtreme 160R 4V | 163.2 cc, air-cooled, 4V | 16.9 PS @ 8,500 rpm | 14.6 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 48 kmpl | 145 kg | 12 L | Dual-channel ABS, Disc | USD Forks, Bluetooth Console |
| Yamaha FZ-S FI Hybrid | 149 cc, air-cooled + Hybrid | 12.4 PS @ 7,250 rpm | 13.3 Nm | 60 kmpl | 137 kg | 13 L | Single-channel ABS, Disc | Hybrid Tech, TFT Display, Idle Start/Stop |
| Honda SP 160 | 162.7 cc, air-cooled | 13.2 PS | 14.8 Nm | 50 kmpl | 138 kg | 12 L | Single-channel ABS, Disc | Digital Speedometer, Silent Start |
If you’re buying your first bike, the 160cc segment is a great choice. These bikes offer the right mix of power, fuel efficiency, comfort, and modern features — ideal for daily use and occasional long rides.
Whether you prefer the sporty Apache, the techy Yamaha Hybrid, or the reliable Honda SP 160, there’s a perfect bike waiting for you.
You’re not just buying a bike — you’re starting a new journey.
Ride safe, ride smart, and enjoy every moment on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – 160 cc Bikes for Beginners
I’m buying my first bike. Is 160cc too powerful for me?
No. All five bikes are beginner-friendly and designed for easy handling in cities and highways. They’re a good balance between performance and safety.
Which 160cc bike is easiest to ride for new bikers?
Honda SP 160 and Yamaha FZ-S FI Hybrid are best for beginners due to their:
Smooth engine
Light clutch
Comfortable riding posture
Is mileage good on these 160cc bikes?
Yes! Most of these bikes offer 45–50 km/l in real-world conditions, which is good for daily commutes.
Do I need to worry about maintenance as a first-time buyer?
Not at all. These bikes are easy and affordable to maintain. A regular service every 3,000–5,000 km will keep the bike in great shape.
Which bike should I choose for city rides?
If you’re riding mostly in cities, Yamaha FZ-S FI Hybrid, Honda SP 160, or Hero Xtreme 160R 4V are ideal for their smooth ride and light handling.
Can I take these bikes on long rides?
Yes, you can. While they are best for city use, Apache RTR 160 4V and Pulsar N160 are also capable of short highway trips with decent comfort and stability.
What about safety for beginners?
Most models come equipped with Single or Dual-Channel ABS for better braking control, along with standard disc brakes in many variants. They also feature good grip tyres and comfortable suspension setups, making them safer and more stable to ride, especially for first-time users.
Will these bikes fit my budget?
Yes. All these bikes fall between ₹1.2 – ₹1.4 lakh (ex-showroom), offering good value with features, mileage, and brand reliability.
Which is best overall for a first-time buyer?
If you’re looking for:
Comfort & mileage – Choose Honda SP 160 or Yamaha FZ-S FI Hybrid
Performance & sporty looks – Go for TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
Modern features – Pick Hero Xtreme 160R 4V
Best all-rounder – Consider Bajaj Pulsar N160
Disclaimer:
All specifications, features, and prices mentioned in this blog are based on publicly available data as of 2025. Variations may occur depending on the model variant, location, or updates by the manufacturers. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, please refer to the official brand websites or contact authorized dealerships.
Official Brand Websites
Visit the official brand websites below for more information:
- TVS Motor Company – www.tvsmotor.com
- Bajaj Auto – www.bajajauto.com
- Hero MotoCorp – www.heromotocorp.com
- Yamaha Motor India – www.yamaha-motor-india.com
- Honda 2Wheelers India – www.honda2wheelersindia.com