Synopsis- The Indian motorcycle market provides a range of models for different utilities. Among these some of the most best-selling utilities include commuters and adventure tourers or cruisers. This article lists out the best of each of these worlds, and guides through which type of models will be the best fit for an individual.
Choosing the right bike depends a lot on how you plan to use it. It can be used in the city for daily commuting or for a fun blast along the highways or off-road trails. As we move into 2025, the Indian motorcycle space has different specialised models which offer both- weekday commuters and weekend explorers. This article delves into the best options from both in order to highlight and compare features so that by the end of this article you will be in no doubt as to which would be the best bike for your needs and lifestyle.
Firstly, let’s understand the key features of each –
Commuter Bikes:
- Commuter motorcycles are all about comfort, reliability, and fuel efficiency
- Are more comfort-oriented along with upright seating, light frames, easy handling
- Available features such as mudguards, luggage racks, cushy seats, make them practical for day-to-day essentials.
- Very economical, and primarily focuses on reducing running and maintenance costs
Weekend/Adventure Bikes:
- Weekend/adventure motorcycles are all about performance, comfort for long distance, and power
- Larger engine capacity, better suspension and advanced electronics allow for greater versatility
- Heavier frames and sporty designs are built for highway and rugged terrai
Best Commuter Bikes in 2025
1. Hero Splendor Plus XTEC
- Engine: 97cc; extremely reliable
- Mileage: Up to 73km/liter
- Price: Rs. 95,000-Rs. 99,000 (Delhi)
- Unbeatable value and legendary reliability make it the most popular commuter bike in India.
2. Honda SP 125
- Engine: 124cc peppy but stingy
- Mileage: About 63km/liter
- Price: Rs. 1.07-1.18 lakh
- Premium looks with a sophisticated gearbox, great suspension and comfort for a glamorous, city commute.
3. TVS Raider 125
- Engine: 125cc sporty ride
- Mileage: 56 km/liter
- Price: ~Rs. 1.17 lakh
- Youthful looks, ace motor and a sophisticated console make the Raider perfect for zipping around town.
4. Hero HF Deluxe
- Engine: 97cc i3s technology for stop-start idling
- Mileage: 70km/liter
- Price: Rs. 59,998- Rs. 71,268
- Simple, tough and perfect for hard day-to-day abuse with little maintenance.
5. Yamaha FZ-S Hybrid
- Engine: 149 Blue Core hybrid technology
- Mileage: 60km/liter
- Price: Rs. 1.45 lakh
- Futuristic tech with Bluetooth and hybrid start for the high-tech commuter.
What Commuters Bikes are About:
- Cheap to run: Powerful engines in lightweight bodies provide an unbelievable mileage
- Comfort: Straight up riding position, decent suspension to allow back and brain to be at ease while crawling through traffic
- Practicality: Mudguards that protect from dirty water, racks to carry groceries or bags, built-in lights are a wonderful thing about early morning or late-night commutes
- Maintenance servicing economical; great for daily commutes.
Top Bikes for Weekend Rides & Touring in 2025
1. Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
- Engine: 648cc twin-cylinder
- Mileage: 25km/litre
- Price: Rs. 3.09 lakh
- Super smooth power delivery, classic looks, and super comfy for a long highway ride.
2. KTM 390 Adventure
- Engine: 373cc single-cylinder
- Mileage: 30 km/litre
- Price: Rs. 3.8 lakh
- A good blend of agility, power, and off-road performance for adventure riders.
3. Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220
- Engine: 220cc
- Mileage: 40km/litre
- Price: Rs. 1.47 lakh
- Ergonomic comfort, easy handling for long highway rides.
4. Suzuki V-Strom SX
- Engine: Touring engine
- Price: Rs. 2.19 lakh
- Mileage: 36 km/litre
- Super reliable, balanced touring, and light off-road capability.
5. Hero XPulse 200 4V
- Engine: 200cc
- Price: Rs. 1.65-1.78 lakh
- Mileage: 32 km/litre
- Budget bike, for decent trails and off-road riding.
Things to make sure you want in a Touring/Weekend bike
- Big engine: made for speed, with torque, to cruise on highways for long distances without fatigue.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: larger cushioned seats and easy to ride in an upright position all day long.
- Technology: GPS, ride modes, cruiser control, and advanced safety electronics (if you want).
- Multi-adjustable high-end suspension that soaks up bumps and can handle occasional off-road riding without skipping a beat.
| Comparison | |||||
| Bike Type | Best Models (2025) | Engine (cc) | Mileage (km/l) | Price Range | Best For |
| Commuter | Splendor Plus XTEC, SP 125 | 97–125 | 63–83 | Rs. 93k–Rs. 1.18 lakh | Daily city commute |
| Weekend/Touring | Interceptor 650, 390 Adv | 220–648 | 23–40 | Rs. 1.17–Rs. 3.4 lakh | Highway & |
Selecting the Best Bike for You-
For the Commuter:
- Your regular city commute, a lot of sitting and starting, and short distances (<30km/day)
- Focus is comfort, weight, and fuel efficiency
- Recommendations: Hero Splendour Plus XTEC
For Weekend Explorers and Adventurers:
- Longer distance touring, roadtrips, with the occasional off-road ride
- Power of the engine, comfort during long haul rides, and features of technology
- Options: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, KTM 390 Adventure, Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220
What is the Best for you?
In short, if you are a user of the bike on a daily basis, travelling through congested city roads with heavy traffic, and you value efficiency, reliability, and comfort. A commuter bike-focused touring motorcycle will save you limitless costs and be much less tiring. On the other hand, if your vision is geared towards weekend touring or distant destinations, or aggressive rides with a motivating purpose beyond the city, you should be looking for a touring or adventure bike. Touring bikes and adventure bikes are fully equipped with most of the power and comfort required for long haul rides.
In the end, the right bike will suit your riding habits and ensure all your ambitions are met. Before making a decision on your purchasing and finalizing, make sure to test ride the concepts you have shortlisted, and consider the long-term costs before making a decision and selection. Whether that is for optimized commuting or enjoyable weekend trips, the correct bike will enhance and optimize every ride.
Written by Adithya Menon
