India’s commuter motorcycle segment has never been short of options. But in 2025, it’s not just about getting from point A to point B anymore. Today’s riders, especially the younger crowd and cost-conscious daily users, are looking for something more style, sporty appeal, performance, and of course, high mileage.
In this updated landscape, manufacturers are stepping up with commuter motorcycles that don’t look like commuters. They are sharp, aggressive, and come packed with features, yet stay affordable and efficient. These motorcycles are designed to make everyday rides a little more exciting, without draining your wallet at the petrol pump.
This article dives into the five best budget-friendly sporty commuter bikes in India that offer great mileage. Every model here has been handpicked not just for numbers on paper, but for how they actually perform in the real world whether you're navigating city traffic, covering long distances, or simply looking to enjoy your daily ride more than you used to.
01 / 06
Hero Xtreme 125R – A New Face of Commuting
Price: ₹95,000 (ex-showroom)
Mileage: 66 kmpl (ARAI claimed)
Hero MotoCorp has been dominating the commuter segment for decades, but with the Xtreme 125R, the brand has taken a bold step to give the budget category a fresh face. The motorcycle doesn’t shy away from flaunting its aggressive styling, chiselled tank design, and split grab rails that scream sporty.
But it’s not just looks. Beneath the bodywork sits a 124.7cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that churns out 11.4 bhp and 10.5 Nm of torque. What makes this engine stand out is its responsiveness in stop-go city traffic. The 5-speed gearbox is slick, offering a smooth and predictable shift pattern that’s essential for daily commutes.
What stands out
Sporty LED headlamps
0 to 60 kmph in just 5.9 seconds
Balanced suspension tuning for city rides
High efficiency without compromising pickup
Whether you’re a college student or a working professional trying to escape monotonous rides, the Hero Xtreme 125R delivers more than just functionality it gives you flair and confidence on the road.
02 / 06
TVS Raider 125 – Where Commuter Meets Fun
Price: ₹95,219 (ex-showroom)
Mileage: 67 kmpl (ARAI claimed)
Launched as a youthful alternative to traditional commuters, the TVS Raider 125 quickly gained traction for all the right reasons. With its muscular tank, split seat, and futuristic digital instrument cluster, the Raider 125 doesn’t look like a 125cc bike at all.
At the heart of this machine is a 124.8cc, three-valve, air-cooled engine that generates 11.38 bhp and 11.2 Nm of torque. What sets this bike apart is the refinement of its power delivery. It’s not jumpy or hesitant—it’s smooth and progressive, even when you push it hard in urban conditions.
TVS has done a phenomenal job tuning the chassis and suspension for both comfort and sportiness. The Raider feels nimble in traffic but planted when you need to lean into corners or cruise down long roads. Its lightweight frame ensures that even new riders feel at home within minutes of hopping on.
Highlight features
Fully digital console with gear shift indicator
Idle Stop-Start system
Under-seat storage space
Responsive braking setup with CBS
TVS Raider is, without a doubt, one of the best sport-commuters under ₹1 lakh. It's the kind of bike that makes you take the long way home, even if your office is just ten minutes away.
03 / 06
Honda SP 125 – Reliability Meets Smart Tech
Price: ₹86,000 (ex-showroom)
Mileage: 65 kmpl (ARAI claimed)
Honda’s reputation for bulletproof reliability continues with the SP 125, a motorcycle built for those who appreciate consistency, quality, and a subtle sense of style. This bike isn’t as flamboyant as the Raider or the Xtreme 125R, but it makes up for it with engineering finesse.
Powered by a 123.94cc fuel-injected engine that makes 10.7 bhp and 10.9 Nm of torque, the SP 125 is tuned for linear power delivery. What this means is that the bike feels smooth and under control at all times especially helpful for new riders and those who often ride with a pillion.
Honda has also packed the SP 125 with some modern tech—like its silent start system and an advanced digital meter that displays mileage, range, service reminder, and real-time fuel efficiency. These features make it not only smarter but more practical for everyday use.
Where it shines
Honda’s Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology
Exceptional engine smoothness
Front disc + rear drum braking with CBS
Great resale value in the long term
While it may not win a beauty contest, the Honda SP 125 continues to be a staple choice for those who want a commuter bike that delivers day in and day out, no questions asked.
04 / 06
Bajaj Pulsar 125 Neon – Everyday Pulsar, Everyday Fun
Price: ₹83,712 (ex-showroom)
Mileage: 57 kmpl (ARAI claimed)
If there’s one name that has become synonymous with sporty motorcycles in India, it’s Pulsar. The Pulsar 125 Neon carries forward that legacy into the commuter segment, giving riders a taste of performance without crossing the ₹90,000 mark.
The 124.4cc engine puts out 11.8 bhp and 10.8 Nm of torque numbers that comfortably beat most of its competition in outright performance. More importantly, the bike feels eager. Whether you're darting through narrow lanes or overtaking on highways, the Pulsar 125 gives you the extra grunt when needed.
What’s more impressive is the way this bike rides. The telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers are tuned to absorb the worst of urban roads without sacrificing handling. While its mileage is a little less compared to the others on this list, it makes up for that in ride excitement.
Why consider it
Iconic Pulsar styling and tank design
Better torque than most 125cc bikes
Good stability at high speeds
Strong brand legacy with wide service network
For someone who grew up admiring the bigger Pulsars but couldn’t stretch the budget, the Pulsar 125 Neon brings that dream within reach.
05 / 06
TVS Sport – The Mileage Champion
Price: ₹66,000 (ex-showroom)
Mileage: 70 kmpl (ARAI claimed)
If there's one motorcycle that proves you don’t need to spend big to get big returns on mileage, it’s the TVS Sport. This bike might not have the aggressive looks or powerful engine like the rest on this list, but it more than makes up for it by being an absolute efficiency machine.
The 109.7cc single-cylinder engine makes a humble 8.18 bhp and 8.7 Nm torque, but the tuning is perfect for low-speed torque, city crawling, and fuel sipping. In ideal riding conditions, it returns a real-world mileage close to 70 kmpl, which is among the highest in India.
It’s incredibly light, easy to maneuver, and has one of the most comfortable seats in its category. The TVS Sport is the kind of bike that gets the job done every single day without any fuss, without frequent service needs, and without breaking the bank.
Key strengths
Excellent mileageBasic yet durable buildLow maintenance costsComfortable ergonomics for long rides
TVS Sport might not be your first pick for a flashy ride, but it’s definitely the one you’ll thank every month at the fuel station.
06 / 06
Choosing the Right Bike for Your Life, Not Just the Road
In today’s market, buying a motorcycle isn’t just a purchase it’s a lifestyle choice. For young professionals, college students, or family-oriented riders, the right commuter bike can dramatically change how daily life flows. Each of the bikes in this list offers something unique: whether it’s the thrilling throttle of the Pulsar 125, the smart features of the Honda SP 125, or the unbeatable mileage of the TVS Sport.
What’s most encouraging, though, is that Indian manufacturers are finally moving beyond just “mileage bikes” and creating commuter motorcycles that riders can actually feel proud of. Bikes that aren’t just about economy, but also about emotion. About identity.
Before buying, ask yourself
Do I want more sporty appeal or higher fuel efficiency?
Am I okay with spending a bit more for extra features or brand reliability?
How often will I ride with a pillion?
How long do I intend to keep the bike?
The answers will guide you to the right model. But rest assured, each of the bikes mentioned above delivers high value and performance in its own right.
Disclaimer
This article is originally produced for Rooh-E-Seemanchal.in, a platform committed to authentic, grounded, and real-world automotive journalism.
