There’s a timeless mantra among bikers: “It’s more fun to ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow.” For budget-conscious enthusiasts in India, the sub-₹1.5 lakh segment offers some of the most fun-to-ride bikes and scooters that deliver thrills without burning a hole in your wallet.
What’s especially impressive? Eight out of ten models here come from Indian brands — a testament to how far homegrown manufacturers have come in crafting engaging and affordable two-wheelers.
Note: All prices mentioned are ex-showroom, Delhi, and listed in ascending order of price.
Top 10 Fun Bikes and Scooters Under ₹1.5 Lakh
10. Yamaha Aerox 155 – ₹1.50 lakh
A rare gem in the scooter world, the Yamaha Aerox 155 blends sporty performance with everyday usability. Its 155cc engine, shared with the Yamaha R15, delivers punchy acceleration and refinement. It’s easily one of the most versatile and exciting scooters you can buy today.
Highlights:
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155cc liquid-cooled engine
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Sporty design, dual-tone bodywork
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Ideal for daily commutes and weekend blasts
9. Hero Xtreme 160R 4V – ₹1.40 lakh
Hero’s most aggressive street-naked yet, the Xtreme 160R 4V, is sharp, agile, and visually distinct. The 2024 update brought dual-channel ABS, a slick LCD console, and emergency stop signal tech. While it’s priced slightly higher than rivals, it offers exceptional handling and safety.
Why it’s fun:
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Best-in-class agility and braking
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Refined 163cc oil-cooled engine
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Minimalist, sporty design
8. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V – ₹1.25–1.40 lakh
The Apache RTR 160 4V remains one of the most balanced bikes in the segment. It offers an excellent mix of comfort, performance, and practicality, now enhanced by the inclusion of USD forks in higher variants.
Key features:
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159.7cc, 17.5hp engine
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Excellent handling for city and twisty roads
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Good fuel efficiency and daily usability
7. Bajaj Pulsar N160 – ₹1.22–1.43 lakh
A modern interpretation of an icon, the Pulsar N160 offers a refined ride with solid street presence. Its new chassis and improved quality make it a great choice for both urban and highway fun.
Highlights:
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Dual-channel ABS on top variants
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14Nm torque for strong low-end punch
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Pulsar legacy with a modern twist
6. TVS Apache RTR 160 2V – ₹1.22–1.43 lakh
A true OG in TVS’s sporty lineup, the Apache RTR 160 2V stays relevant through regular updates. The latest version is OBD2-B compliant, keeping emissions in check without losing its peppy nature.
Why it’s still a hit:
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Proven reliability and performance
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Comfortable ride quality
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Ideal for beginners and commuters who crave excitement
5. TVS Raider 125 – ₹87,010–1.02 lakh
Small in size, big on fun — the TVS Raider 125 is a disruptor in the 125cc commuter space. A segment-first TFT display, sporty styling, and a lively motor make it one of the most value-packed bikes in India.
Fun factors:
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Excellent power-to-weight ratio
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Available in SmartXonnect and single-seat versions
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Bike of the Year 2022 (multiple awards)
4. Ather 450S – ₹1.23 lakh
Ather’s entry-level electric scooter is quick, light, and surprisingly agile. The 450S proves that EVs can be just as engaging as ICE scooters — if not more.
Standouts:
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Sharp throttle response
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Aluminium frame = lightweight
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Regenerative braking, smart features
3. Hero Xoom 125 – ₹86,900–92,900
Understated but capable, the Hero Xoom 125 delivers good performance and class-leading ride stability, thanks to its 14-inch wheels. A great choice for college-goers or urban riders who want a scooter with flair.
Pros:
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Light and nimble
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Stylish LED lighting
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Great value for money
2. TVS NTorq 125 – ₹87,542–1.07 lakh
Zippy, feature-rich, and youth-focused, the TVS NTorq is one of the most entertaining scooters in India. Its Race XP variant offers multiple riding modes and a spunky engine note that sets it apart.
Why it rocks:
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SmartXonnect with navigation
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Best-in-class acceleration in 125cc
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Great for spirited short rides
1. TVS Radeon – ₹59,880–83,984
Think all commuters are boring? Think again. The TVS Radeon surprises with its torquey engine, comfy ergonomics, and nimble handling. It’s a budget bike that punches above its weight when it comes to riding feel.
What makes it fun:
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Light and flickable in traffic
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Plush seat and suspension
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High-mileage and low maintenance
Honourable Mentions
Hero Xpulse 200 4V – ₹1.52 lakh
Slightly over budget, but perfect for off-road adventurers. Great suspension, 220mm ground clearance, and rally-ready DNA make it a top pick for beginner ADV riders.
Bajaj Pulsar NS200 – ₹1.52 lakh
The NS200 refuses to fade. With its KTM-derived engine, 24.5hp output, and aggressive stance, it’s still a top pick for performance-seeking riders on a budget.
Final Thoughts
India’s sub-₹1.5 lakh segment offers an exciting variety of two-wheelers for every type of rider — whether you want a sharp streetfighter, a spirited scooter, or a daily commuter that doesn’t feel boring. With constant updates, improved quality, and features trickling down from premium segments, these bikes prove you don’t need to spend big to have fun on two wheels.
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