The Indian market offers a thrilling selection of superbikes for riders seeking excitement without breaking the bank. Here’s an expanded list to help you find your ideal match under 5 lakhs:
1. Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 (Price: Starts at ₹3.18 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.royalenfield.com/in/en/motorcycles/continental-gt/
- Why it’s Here: Classic cafe racer looks, punchy 648cc engine for thrilling acceleration, comfortable riding position for city commutes.
- Features: Traditional halogen headlamp, twin pod instrument cluster, air-cooled engine for a raw riding experience.
- Who Should Buy: Fans of vintage aesthetics who enjoy a balance between performance and comfort.
- Who Should Avoid: Riders seeking the latest technology and sharp handling.
2. Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 (Price: Starts at ₹3.02 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.royalenfield.com/in/en/motorcycles/interceptor/
- Why it’s Here: Versatile roadster with a powerful engine, comfortable ergonomics for relaxed riding, and a timeless design. This bike won the ‘Bike of the Year 2019’ at the Times Auto Awards 2019.
It also won the ‘Best Retro of the year’ award by Motorcycle News for 2019, and the ‘Motorcycle of the Year’ award from AutoX Magazine. - Features: Twin pod instrument cluster, chrome finished parts, comfortable seating for rider and pillion.
- Who Should Buy: Cruiser enthusiasts who prioritize comfort over aggressive riding posture.
- Who Should Avoid: Riders seeking a sporty and aerodynamic design.
3. CFMoto 650NK (Price: Around ₹4.25 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.cfmotoindia.com/650nk.php
- Why it’s Here: Modern streetfighter with aggressive looks, 649cc engine for exciting performance, feature-packed with a TFT display.
- Features: Upside-down forks, LED headlamps, TFT instrument display for a modern riding experience.
- Who Should Buy: Riders seeking a stylish streetfighter with a powerful engine, modern features, and a comfortable riding position.
- Who Should Avoid: Budget-conscious buyers (slightly above the 3 lakh mark).
4. Benelli Leoncino 500 (Price: Around ₹4.99 Lakhs)
Official website – https://india.benelli.com/product/leoncino
- Why it’s Here: Scrambler-style motorcycle with a unique design, powerful 499cc engine for a thrilling ride, comfortable for on and some off-road riding is one of the top Superbikes in India Under 5 Lakhs.
- Features: Semi-knobby tyres, high ground clearance, comfortable riding position for exploring diverse terrains.
- Who Should Buy: Riders seeking a stylish and versatile motorcycle for city commutes, occasional off-road adventures, and highway cruising.
- Who Should Avoid: Strictly off-road enthusiasts or those on a tight budget (nears the 5 lakh mark).
5. Benelli TRK 502 (Price: Around ₹4.50 Lakhs)
Official website – https://india.benelli.com/product/trk-502-2023
- Why it’s Here: Adventure touring motorcycle with a powerful 500cc engine, comfortable ergonomics for long rides, and luggage carrying capacity.
- Features: Long-travel suspension, large windscreen, pannier mounts for luggage, perfect for exploring different terrains.
- Who Should Buy: Adventure touring enthusiasts seeking a comfortable and capable motorcycle for exploring off-road trails and highways.
- Who Should Avoid: Strictly on-road riders or those looking for a lightweight and nimble option.
6. Bajaj Dominar 400 (Price: Starts at ₹2.29 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.bajajauto.com/bikes/dominar/dominar-400
- Why it’s Here: Value-for-money option with a muscular design, powerful 373cc engine for a satisfying ride, and comfortable ergonomics for touring.
- Features: LED headlamps, digital instrument cluster, comfortable seating position for rider and pillion.
- Who Should Buy: Budget-conscious riders seeking a powerful and comfortable touring motorcycle with a muscular design.
- Who Should Avoid: Riders seeking the latest technology or the most powerful engine in this list.
7. KTM 390 Duke (Price: Starts at ₹3.11 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.ktmindia.com/
- Why it’s Here: Aggressive streetfighter with a sharp chassis for precise handling, powerful 373cc engine for an exciting ride, lightweight for agility.
- Features: Upside-down forks, sharp and sporty design, lightweight construction for a thrilling riding experience.
- Who Should Buy: Experienced riders seeking a lightweight and agile streetfighter with sharp handling and thrilling power delivery.
- Who Should Avoid: New riders or those prioritizing comfort for long rides.
8. KTM 390 Adventure (Price: Starts at ₹3.29 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.ktmindia.com/
- Why it’s Here: Adventure touring motorcycle with a powerful 373cc engine, comfortable ergonomics for long rides, and off-road capability.
- Features: Long-travel suspension, large windscreen, adventure-ready features like spoked wheels, perfect for tackling diverse terrains.
- Who Should Buy: Adventure enthusiasts seeking a capable and comfortable motorcycle for exploring on and off-road journeys.
- Who Should Avoid: Strictly on-road riders or those looking for a high-powered machine (shares engine with Duke but tuned for touring).
9. BMW G 310 R (Price: Starts at ₹3.49 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.bmw-motorrad.in/en/models/roadster/g310r.html
- Why it’s Here: German pedigree with a sporty design, 313cc engine for a peppy ride, comfortable ergonomics for city commutes.
- Features: Upside-down forks, sharp BMW design elements, and well-balanced handling for a confidence-inspiring ride.
- Who Should Buy: Brand-conscious riders seeking a premium European motorcycle with sporty handling and a comfortable riding position.
- Who Should Avoid: Budget-conscious buyers or those seeking a powerful engine for highway cruising (lower engine displacement).
10. BMW G 310 GS (Price: Starts at ₹3.54 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.bmw-motorrad.in/en/models/roadster/g310r.html
- Why it’s Here: Adventure touring motorcycle with a 313cc engine, comfortable ergonomics for long rides, and decent off-road capability.
- Features: Long-travel suspension, large windscreen, adventure-ready features for exploring diverse terrains.
- Who Should Buy: Adventure touring enthusiasts seeking a comfortable and capable BMW motorcycle for exploring on and off-road adventures.
- Who Should Avoid: Strictly on-road riders or those seeking a high-powered machine (shares engine with G 310 R but tuned for touring).
New Additions (Exceed 5 Lakhs):
- Important Note: These motorcycles fall slightly above the 5 lakh mark but are included due to their popularity and potential interest among some riders.
11. Suzuki V-Strom 650 (Price: Around ₹6.80 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.suzukimotorcycle.co.in/
- Why it’s Here: Versatile adventure touring motorcycle with a powerful 645cc engine, comfortable ergonomics, and excellent wind protection for long rides.
- Features: Long-travel suspension, large windscreen, comfortable seating position, well-suited for highway cruising and light off-road adventures.
- Who Should Buy: Adventure touring enthusiasts seeking a comfortable and powerful motorcycle for long journeys on varied terrains.
- Who Should Avoid: Budget-conscious riders or those who strictly prioritize off-road capability.
12. Kawasaki Versys 650 (Price: Around ₹6.70 Lakhs)
Official website – https://kawasaki-india.com/
- Why it’s Here: Adventure touring motorcycle with a powerful 649cc engine, comfortable ergonomics for long rides, and good wind protection. This bike was named one of the “Best Standard Motorcycles to Commute On” by Motorcyclist.
- Features: Adjustable windscreen, comfortable seating position, luggage mounting options, good balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability.
- Who Should Buy: Adventure touring riders seeking a versatile motorcycle for exploring highways and some off-road trails.
- Who Should Avoid: Strictly off-road enthusiasts or budget-conscious buyers.
13. Ducati Scrambler 800 (Price: Around ₹8.40 Lakhs)
Official website – https://scramblerducati.com/ww/
- Why it’s Here (Honorary Mention): While exceeding the 5 lakh mark, the Scrambler 800 deserves a mention for its iconic Italian design, powerful 803cc engine, and unique blend of retro style and modern performance.
- Features: High-quality components, air-cooled engine for a classic riding experience, comfortable ergonomics for city commutes and occasional highway cruising.
- Who Should Buy: Style-conscious riders seeking a premium motorcycle with a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern performance.
- Who Should Avoid: Budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing pure performance or long-distance touring comfort.
14. Triumph Street Twin (Price: Around ₹7.15 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.triumphmotorcycles.in/motorcycles/classic/bonneville-speed-twin-900
- Why it’s Here (Honorary Mention): The Street Twin offers a modern take on a classic roadster design, with a powerful 900cc engine and comfortable ergonomics.
- Features: Liquid-cooled engine for smooth performance, comfortable riding position, modern styling for a head-turning presence.
- Who Should Buy: Riders seeking a stylish and modern roadster with a balance of performance and comfort for city riding and occasional highway journeys.
- Who Should Avoid: Budget-conscious buyers or those seeking a pure sportbike experience.
15. Harley-Davidson Street Bob (Price: Around ₹11.00 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/motorcycles/street-bob.html
- Why it’s Here (Honorary Mention): The Street Bob offers a true American cruiser experience, with a powerful Milwaukee-Eight engine, iconic design, and laid-back riding position.
- Features: Low seat height, forward-mounted footpegs, powerful cruiser engine for a distinctive riding experience.
- Who Should Buy: Cruiser enthusiasts seeking The iconic Harley-Davidson rumble and brand legacy.
- Who Should Avoid: Budget-conscious buyers or those seeking a motorcycle for aggressive riding or long-distance touring (limited weather protection).
16. Indian Scout Bobber (Price: Around ₹12.50 Lakhs)
Official website – https://www.indianmotorcycle.com/en-us/scout-motorcycles/scout-bobber/
- Why it’s Here (Honorary Mention): The Scout Bobber offers a powerful American cruiser experience with a comfortable riding position and head-turning design.
- Features: Powerful engine for a thrilling ride, comfortable mid-set controls, stylish bobber design with chopped fenders and a solo seat.
- Who Should Buy: Cruiser enthusiasts seeking a powerful and stylish American motorcycle with a comfortable riding position for cruising.
- Who Should Avoid: Budget-conscious buyers or those seeking a motorcycle for long-distance touring (limited wind protection).
17. Honda CBR650R (Price: Around ₹8.80 Lakhs):
Official website – https://www.honda2wheelersindia.com/
- Why It’s Here: This middleweight sportbike offers a thrilling experience with good handling, a comfortable riding position, and a balance between performance and practicality.
- Features: Inline-four engine provides smooth power delivery, upside-down forks enhance handling, aerodynamic fairing offers wind protection for comfortable riding.
- Who Should Buy: Experienced riders seeking a sportbike for spirited riding, occasional highway cruising, and track day experiences. Offers a good balance between performance and everyday usability.
- Who Should Avoid: New riders or those on a tight budget.
18. Yamaha MT-07 (Price: Around ₹6.80 Lakhs):
Official website – https://www.yamaha-motor-india.com/
- Why It’s Here: This popular naked streetfighter delivers exciting performance with user-friendly handling. It boasts a torquey engine, lightweight chassis, and a comfortable upright riding position.
- Features: Upright riding position offers good control and visibility, aggressive streetfighter aesthetics enhance its appeal, delivers a thrilling ride with user-friendly handling.
- Who Should Buy: Riders seeking a versatile motorcycle for city commutes, occasional highway cruising, and some spirited riding. Ideal for those who prioritize agility and a comfortable riding posture.
- Who Should Avoid: Strictly track-focused riders or those prioritizing wind protection for long journeys.
19. Aprilia Tuono 660 (Price: Around ₹10.00 Lakhs):
Official website – https://apriliaindia.com/
- Why It’s Here (Honorary Mention): This Italian machine offers a powerful naked streetfighter experience with a 660cc engine for exhilarating performance and lightweight construction for agile handling.
- Features: High-quality components showcase Italian craftsmanship, aggressive design grabs attention, advanced electronics package enhances the riding experience (may vary depending on model year).
- Who Should Buy: Experienced riders seeking a premium European motorcycle with a unique blend of Italian style and exhilarating performance.
- Who Should Avoid: Budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing comfort for long rides (upright riding position might not be ideal for extended touring).
20. MV Agusta Brutale 800 (Price: Around ₹16.00 Lakhs):
Official website – https://www.mvagusta.com/
- Why It’s Here (Honorary Mention): This Italian exotic boasts a powerful 799cc engine, head-turning design, and a focus on performance.
- Features: High-end components deliver exceptional performance, unique three-cylinder engine sound adds to the character, advanced electronics enhance handling and safety (may vary depending on model year).
- Who Should Buy: Discerning riders seeking an exclusive and high-performance motorcycle with a focus on power and aggressive aesthetics.
- Who Should Avoid: Budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing practicality and comfort over outright performance (limited pillion comfort and high maintenance costs).
21. Suzuki GSX-S1000 (Price: Around ₹14.00 Lakhs):
Official website – https://www.suzukimotorcycle.co.in/
- Why It’s Here: This powerful liter-class naked streetfighter offers an aggressive design, a 999cc engine for exhilarating performance, and comfortable ergonomics for spirited riding.
- Features: Upside-down forks provide sharp handling, powerful brakes ensure precise stopping, electronically-aided riding features enhance control (may vary depending on model year).
- Who Should Buy: Experienced riders seeking a high-performance naked streetfighter with exceptional power and advanced rider aids for a thrilling riding experience.
- Who Should Avoid: New riders or those intimidated by the power and aggressive nature of this machine. (Requires skilled handling and a focus on safety).
22. Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX (Price: Around ₹12.00 Lakhs):
Official website – https://www.kawasaki.com/en-us/motorcycle/ninja/sport/ninja-1000-abs
- Why It’s Here: This sport touring motorcycle provides a powerful 998cc engine, comfortable ergonomics for long rides, and wind protection for highway cruising.
- Features: Adjustable windscreen offers weather protection, electronically-adjustable suspension (may vary depending on model year) enhances comfort, luggage mounting options enable touring capability.
- Who Should Buy: Riders seeking a powerful and comfortable sport touring motorcycle for conquering long journeys and enjoying spirited riding on twisty roads. Ideal for riders who prioritize both performance and comfort.
- Who Should Avoid: Strictly track-focused riders or those on a tight budget. (Focuses more on touring comfort than pure racing).
23. BMW S 1000 RR (Price: Around ₹18.00 Lakhs):
Official website –
- Why It’s Here (Honorary Mention): This pinnacle of German engineering boasts a 999cc engine for mind-blowing performance, advanced aerodynamics for exceptional track capability, and a focus on rider feedback.
- Features: Cutting-edge electronics package refines handling and safety (may vary depending on model year), lightweight construction enhances agility, premium components deliver exceptional performance.
- Who Should Buy: Highly experienced and skilled riders seeking a top-of-the-line liter-class sportbike for pushing the limits on the track. Ideal for professional riders or those with exceptional riding skills.
- Who Should Avoid: New riders, budget-conscious buyers, or those who prioritize comfort over outright performance. (Requires significant investment, expertise, and focus on safety).
Sources –
- Royal Enfield Continental GT 650:
- Royal Enfield Official Website: https://www.royalenfield.com/in/en/motorcycles/continental-gt/
- Reviews:
- Royal Enfield Interceptor 650:
- Royal Enfield Official Website: https://www.bikewale.com/royalenfield-bikes/interceptor/
- Reviews:
- CFMoto 650NK:
- CFMoto India Website: https://www.cfmotoindia.com/650nk.php
- Reviews:
- https://www.bikedekho.com/cfmoto/650nk-std.html (BikeDekho)
- https://www.reddit.com/r/StreetFighter/comments/14ar9tx/over_drive_attacks/ (Overdrive) (Note: This review is for the CFMoto 650MT, a similar adventure touring model)
- Bajaj Dominar 400:
- Bajaj Auto Official Website: https://www.bikewale.com/bajaj-bikes/dominar-400/
- Reviews:
- KTM 390 Duke:
- KTM India Website: https://mtbakermoto.com/Motorcycles-KTM-390-Duke-2023-Bellingham-WA-ffe9afeb-66ca-458a-b482-afa1004c50b3 (mentioned previously)
- Reviews:
- KTM 390 Adventure:
- KTM India Website: https://www.ktm.com/en-hr/models/travel/2024-ktm-390-adventure.html
- Reviews:
- Honda CBR650R:
- Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India: https://www.honda2wheelersindia.com/ (Official Website may not have the CBR650R listed, but it’s a good resource for Honda India)
- Reviews:
- Yamaha MT-07:
- Yamaha India Website: https://www.yamaha-motor-india.com/ (Official Website may not have the MT-07 listed, but it’s a good resource for Yamaha India)
- Reviews:
- Royal Enfield Himalayan:
- Royal Enfield Official Website (mentioned previously)
- Aprilia Tuono 660:
- Aprilia India Website: https://apriliaindia.com/ (Note: Aprilia India website might not have the latest information. Check with local dealerships for confirmation)
- Reviews:
- https://www.bikedekho.com/aprilia/tuono-660/images (BikeDekho) (This review is for an older model, but it can still provide some insights)
- https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=d9gLPTkOZPA (Overdrive) (This article compares the Tuono 660 with other motorcycles)
