The Bajaj Avenger Street 160 is the most affordable cruiser motorcycle one can buy in India. It has been recently updated to comply with the BS6 emission norms which has substantially hiked its price. The motorcycle now costs Rs 93,677. In case you’re contemplating over the alternatives, around a similar price range, there are four bikes you can consider.
Bajaj Pulsar 150: (Rs 85,920 – Rs 96,563)
If you’re looking for something more sporty and commuter-oriented, Bajaj’s own line-up has the Pulsar 150. The motorcycle continues to exude the same old boisterous charm with a bold headlamp and a beefy fuel tank. It is powered by a decently potent 149.5cc, air-cooled engine which makes 13.6bhp and 13.25Nm. You can opt from one of the thre variants available in the Pulsar, including the most expensive dual disc model, single disc trim and the most affordable Neon variant.
Honda Unicorn: (Rs 94,549)
Competing closely with the Bajaj Pulsar is the Honda Unicorn which is also a premium commuter. With the BS6 update, Honda has bestowed it with a larger 160cc engine which produces 12.5bhp and 14Nm. A refined motor, comfortable ergonomics and reliability have always been the USPs of the Unicorn. Additionally, the new model also gets an engine start-stop switch along with HET tubeless tyres which are claimed to assist in improving the fuel efficiency.
TVS Apache RTR 160: (Rs 95,000 – Rs 98,000)
The Apache RTR 160 is one of the oldest models in TVS’ line-up. Owing to the dearth of major updates for a long time, it feels dated now. However, it continues to fetch decent sales even today owing to its sporty styling, comfortable yet aggressive ergonomics and a grunty 159cc engine which develops 15.3 bhp and 13.9Nm. One of the stand out features of the BS6 Apache is the GTT (glide through technology) which aids in seamless slow-speed riding through traffic.
Yamaha FZ V3: (Rs 99,200)
The Yamaha FZ V3 is for those who want a muscular, street fighter-like styling with decent features such as an LED headlamp with LED DRL and a fully-digital instrument cluster. At 12.2bhp and 13.6, it produces the least power in its segment. However, weighing at 132kgs, it is much lighter than its rivals such as the Pulsar and the Unicorn. Also, you can opt for the jazzier-looking S trim of the FZ V3.
(All prices are ex-showroom)