Based on affordability, fuel efficiency, style, and suitability for college students in India in 2025, here are the top five motorcycles for college students. These picks prioritize budget-friendliness, low maintenance, and practicality for short commutes, with insights from recent sources.
- Hero Splendor Plus
- Price: ~₹74,932–₹77,176 (ex-showroom)
- Why It’s Great: A top-selling bike in India, the Splendor Plus offers exceptional fuel efficiency (~70–80.6 kmpl), making it ideal for students on a tight budget. Its 97.2cc air-cooled engine produces 7.91 bhp and 8.05 Nm, ensuring reliable performance for city commutes. Features like i3S (idle start-stop) technology, drum brakes, and a 5-year warranty add value. Its lightweight design (112 kg) and seven color options appeal to young riders.
- Best For: Students seeking a reliable, low-maintenance, and fuel-efficient commuter for daily campus rides.
- Drawbacks: Basic design may not appeal to those wanting sporty looks.
2. TVS Raider 125
- Price: ~₹95,000–₹1,00,000 (ex-showroom)
- Why It’s Great: The Raider 125 combines sporty styling with practicality, featuring a 124.8cc air-cooled engine delivering 11.2 bhp and 11.2 Nm, with a mileage of ~55–60 kmpl. Its slightly rear-set footpegs and comfortable stance suit longer commutes (5–10 km). Modern features like a digital cluster, LED headlights, and a USB charger make it youth-friendly.
- Best For: Students wanting a stylish, budget-friendly bike with decent performance for city and occasional highway rides.
- Drawbacks: Slightly higher price than basic commuters like the Splendor.
3. Honda SP 125
- Price: ~₹83,839–₹90,000 (ex-showroom)
- Why It’s Great: Known for Honda’s reliability, the SP 125 features a 124cc BS6 engine with ~55 kmpl mileage and 10.7 bhp. Its modern design includes LED headlights, a digital instrument cluster, and idle start-stop technology for enhanced fuel efficiency. At 116 kg, it’s easy to handle in city traffic, making it ideal for students.
- Best For: Students prioritizing reliability, modern features, and fuel efficiency for urban commutes.
- Drawbacks: Slightly less sporty compared to options like the TVS Raider.
4. Bajaj Pulsar 125
- Price: ~₹85,000–₹95,000 (ex-showroom)
- Why It’s Great: The Pulsar 125 offers a sporty design and a 124.4cc engine producing 11.64 bhp and 11 Nm, with a mileage of ~50–55 kmpl. Its ergonomic design, disc brakes, and combined braking system ensure safety and comfort. The Pulsar’s iconic brand appeal and vibrant color schemes make it a favorite among college students.
- Best For: Students wanting a sporty, affordable bike with good performance for short trips and occasional outings.
- Drawbacks: Maintenance costs can be slightly higher than Hero or Honda models.
5. Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- Price: ~₹1,49,900 (ex-showroom)
- Why It’s Great: For students with a slightly higher budget, the Hunter 350 offers a neo-retro design and a 349cc engine delivering 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm, with ~35–40 kmpl mileage. Its lightweight frame (177 kg) and features like dual-channel ABS, a USB port, and a digital-analog cluster make it practical yet stylish. It’s easy to handle for beginners and has strong campus appeal.
- Best For: Students seeking a premium, stylish bike for city commutes and weekend rides.
- Drawbacks: Higher price and lower mileage compared to 125cc options.
Key Considerations:
- Budget: Most picks are under ₹1 lakh, except the Hunter 350, to suit student budgets.
- Mileage: High fuel efficiency (50–80 kmpl) reduces running costs, crucial for students.
- Maintenance: Hero and Honda models have lower maintenance costs; Bajaj and TVS may require slightly more upkeep.
- Safety: Features like ABS and disc brakes (e.g., Pulsar, Hunter) enhance safety in urban settings.
- Theft Prevention: Use a sturdy lock and park in secure areas, as bike theft is common on campuses.
- Insurance: Third-party two-wheeler insurance is mandatory in India; consider comprehensive plans for added protection.
Note: If you meant bicycles instead of motorcycles, please clarify, and I can provide a list tailored to non-motorized options. For specific campus needs (e.g., hilly terrain, electric scooters, or a tighter budget), let me know!
