For daily commuters, a two-wheeler is more than just a mode of transport—it’s a lifeline. With fuel prices constantly rising and urban traffic congestion worsening, having an affordable and fuel-efficient bike or scooter is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Whether you’re a student rushing to classes, an office-goer beating peak-hour traffic, or a delivery executive ensuring timely service, the right two-wheeler can significantly improve your daily routine while keeping operational costs low.

In today’s competitive market, choosing the ideal budget-friendly two-wheeler is about balancing multiple factors—mileage, price, comfort, and maintenance. Manufacturers are rolling out innovative models tailored to different commuter needs, equipped with fuel-saving technology, enhanced safety features, and ergonomic designs. But with so many choices available, how do you determine which one suits you best?
1. Hero Splendor Plus – The Most Trusted Commuter Bike
The Splendor is what put most of India on two wheels, and continues to do so in semi-urban and rural areas. It started off as the Hero Honda Splendor in 1994, as a successor to the CD100 and Sleek. It remained in original form for a whole decade, when the Splendor got the first of many cosmetic and styling updates. The Splendor range covers three different capacities – the original 97cc engine that is in production even today, a 110cc engine that was developed and launched after the split with Honda, and a 125cc Super Splendor that caters to those who want more power and torque but don’t need any flashiness.

The Splendor brand remains the highest-selling motorcycle brand in the country, decades after its launch, and it delivers on that which is promises – reliability, great fuel efficiency, and affordable maintenance.

Mileage: 65-70 km/l
Price: ₹75,000 - ₹80,000 (ex-showroom)

A household name in India, the Hero Splendor Plus is known for its reliability, low maintenance, and impressive mileage. Its i3S technology (Idle Stop-Start System) helps save fuel, making it a top choice for budget-conscious buyers.

• Pros: Excellent fuel economy, low maintenance, and strong resale value.
• Cons: Basic design and limited features compared to modern bikes.

2. Honda Shine 125 – The Balance of Power and Efficiency
The new range of CB Shine SP comes with a 5 speed gear box to enhance intra-city riding which delivers 15% reduction in vibration. The vehicle now comes with digital analog meter console, Honda Eco Technology (HET) engine along with Combi-Brake System (CBS), which off-late has become a norm for all the new vehicles Honda ?introduces. The company claims the new CB Shine delivers a fuel efficiency of 65 kilometers to a litre.
Mileage: 60-65 km/l
Price: ₹80,000 - ₹85,000 (ex-showroom)

If you want a commuter bike with slightly more power, the Honda Shine 125 is a great pick. It features Honda’s Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology, improving fuel efficiency and engine performance.

• Pros: Smooth engine, durable build, and fuel-efficient.
• Cons: Slightly higher price than 100cc bikes.

3. Bajaj Platina 110 H-Gear – Long Distance Commuting Made Easy
Bajaj Auto has launched the updated 2023 Platina 110 motorcycle with ABS in India at a starting price of Rs 72,224 (ex-showroom, New Delhi). This makes it the first and currently only 110 cc motorcycle in India to be offered with an ABS system.
The Platina 110 ABS gets a single-channel ABS on the front wheel, which improves the safety quotient of the commuter motorcycle.
Sitting atop the Platina 110 range, the ABS-equipped model also gets a digital instrument cluster with an ABS indicator, a gear position indicator, and other info. Bajaj is offering the 2023 Platina 110 ABS in three colour options, namely Ebony Black, Cocktail Wine Red and Saffire Blue.

Mileage: 70-75 km/l
Price: ₹70,000 - ₹75,000 (ex-showroom)

For those who frequently travel long distances, the Bajaj Platina 110 H-Gear is an excellent choice. It comes with a 5th gear (H-Gear) that enhances highway fuel efficiency, making it a commuter’s dream.

• Pros: Comfort-oriented design, high mileage, and affordable price.
• Cons: Slightly less powerful than some 125cc bikes.

4. TVS Radeon – Stylish Yet Practical
Powering the TVS Radeon is a 109.7cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, which delivers 8.08 hp and 8.7 Nm of torque. It comes mated to a 4-speed gearbox. The bike is built on a single cradle tubular frame, featuring telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks. For stopping power, the base model is equipped with a 130mm front drum brake, while the top variant offers a 240mm front disc and a 110mm drum at the rear.

Mileage: 65-70 km/l
Price: ₹70,000 - ₹75,000 (ex-showroom)

The TVS Radeon combines stylish retro looks with practicality. It is equipped with a comfortable seat, strong build, and fuel-efficient engine.

• Pros: Attractive design, excellent fuel efficiency, and durability.
• Cons: Fewer service centers compared to Hero and Honda.

5. Honda Activa 6G – India’s Favorite Scooter
The Honda Activa 6G is a 109.51 cc scooter available in three variants: Activa 6G Standard, Activa 6G Deluxe, and Activa 6G H-Smart. It has a kerb weight of 106 kg and comes in seven color options. It features both kick and self-start options. The price range of the Honda Activa 6G is Rs 78,376 to Rs 84,365

Mileage: 50-55 km/l
Price: ₹75,000 - ₹80,000 (ex-showroom)

The Honda Activa 6G is India’s best-selling scooter, offering a refined engine, smooth ride, and impressive durability. It is ideal for city commuting with a comfortable riding posture.

• Pros: Reliable, low maintenance, and resale value.
• Cons: Lower mileage compared to bikes.

6. TVS Jupiter – The Perfect Alternative to Activa
Equipped with a host a features including a new 125 cc engine, industry best mileage, best-in-segment acceleration, the scooter TVS Jupiter 125 also has the largest under-seat storage, longest seat among many others, according to a press release.

Mileage: 50-55 km/l
Price: ₹72,000 - ₹77,000 (ex-showroom)

If you want a reliable scooter with slightly more comfort, the TVS Jupiter is a strong contender. It offers smooth performance, fuel efficiency, and features like an external fuel filler cap for convenience.

• Pros: Comfortable ride, practical features, and refined engine.
• Cons: Not as fuel-efficient as motorcycles.

7. Bajaj CT 110X – The Most Affordable Commuter Bike
The Bajaj CT 110X is a robust and practical motorcycle designed for rugged use, offering durability and reliability for everyday commuting and occasional off-road rides.

Mileage: 65-70 km/l
Price: ₹65,000 - ₹70,000 (ex-showroom)

For those on a tight budget, the Bajaj CT 110X offers incredible mileage at a very affordable price. It is built to withstand rough roads and daily wear and tear.

• Pros: Cheapest in the segment, high mileage, and rugged design.
• Cons: Basic features and design.

When choosing a budget-friendly two-wheeler for daily commuting, factors like mileage, maintenance costs, and reliability play a crucial role. Hero Splendor Plus, Honda Shine 125, and Bajaj Platina 110 H-Gear lead the commuter segment, while Honda Activa 6G and TVS Jupiter dominate the scooter category. For the most affordable option, Bajaj CT 110X is an unbeatable choice.

Before making your final decision, test-ride your preferred model, compare mileage, and check the after-sales service in your city. A well-chosen two-wheeler can make your daily commute economical and hassle-free!