Mumbai’s traffic doesn’t play around—and neither should your first bike. Navigating the city’s hectic, crowded, congested roads and freeways is an infamously chaotic task in of itself. Some might even call it a daily challenge. Now add an equally notorious monsoon cycle; and you can pretty much bet that there will be more than a few navigational challenges (not to mention flooded streets).
You might as well have moved there recently, but all of a sudden, you’ve got a need for a two-wheeler that has to be not only stylish but resilient as well. Which is why picking the right first bike (or scooter) in Mumbai goes beyond just the price tag or horsepower.
It’s about making the right choice in agility, durability, long-term mileage, and most importantly, the price. Most people would more or less want to find the best bike under 2 lakh, as a price point.
Want to make the right one for yourself? Explore this blow to know how.
What to Look for as a New Rider in Mumbai
Before diving into the list, it’s worth knowing what features make a bike truly city-ready:
- Easy Handling: Lightweight bikes help you zip through traffic and navigate tight turns in areas like Andheri or Kurla.
- Mileage That Saves You Daily: With commutes easily stretching 20–30 km, good fuel economy is a must.
- Low-Maintenance Performance: You don’t want your first bike to be a garage regular.
- Total Cost of Ownership: Think beyond MRP—consider insurance, servicing, and spare parts too.
Top Picks for 2025
- Hero Xtreme 160R 4V
₹1.30 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 163cc
- Mileage: ~50 km/l
- Why it works: Light chassis, quick handling—perfect for stop-and-go traffic in zones like Sion and Ghatkopar.
- Honda SP160
₹1.20 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 162.7cc
- Mileage: ~55 km/l
- Why it works: Known for smooth rides and Honda reliability—especially great during monsoons.
- Bajaj Pulsar N150
₹1.18 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 149.68cc
- Mileage: ~50 km/l
- Why it works: Solid ride quality and comfort, ideal for daily commutes from Thane to South Mumbai.
- TVS Raider 125
₹95,000–₹1.02 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 124.8cc
- Mileage: ~60 km/l
- Why it works: Fun to ride, good tech features, and built for inner-city navigation in Dadar and Matunga.
- Yamaha FZ-S FI V4
₹1.29 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 149cc
- Mileage: ~48–50 km/l
- Why it works: Comfortable seating and strong braking—great for wet roads and busy monsoon mornings.
Also read: High mileage scooty in India
Smart Tips for First-Time Bike Buyers
- Take Multiple Test Rides: See what feels natural—especially on uneven roads or speed breakers.
- Prioritize Mileage: With petrol prices high, every kilometre counts.
- Don’t Skimp on Safety Gear: A good helmet and jacket go a long way in Mumbai’s unpredictable traffic.
- Explore Financing: Look for local EMI offers or dealership discounts—they’re often student- and professional-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Getting your first bike is a milestone—and in Mumbai, it’s a practical one too. With options like the TVS Raider or the Hero Xtreme 160R, there’s a ride under ₹2 lakh that fits your life and your commute.
Want more city-smart bike suggestions or personalized picks? Head over to Ecozaar.in and discover which ride fits your lifestyle best.