The Bajaj NS400Z is not just the highest-capacity Pulsar to date but also the most powerful motorcycle under Rs 2 lakh. Its rev-happy 349cc liquid-cooled engine produces 40.6PS and 33.2Nm and comes mated to a six-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch. Plus, it comes loaded with four riding modes, quickshifter functionality, traction control, dual-channel ABS, 43mm front USD forks, fat radial tyres and Bluetooth connectivity. However, what makes the deal sweetest is the asking price of Rs 1.8 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) for the entire package.
While it is arguably impossible to beat the performance that Pulsar NS400Z offers at this cost, some buyers might be looking for a different personality. From committed sports bikes to an electric scooter, a classic, and even a hardcore off-roader, here are alternatives you can pick for a similar kind of money.
KTM RC 160
Price: Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
If you want something with razor-sharp handling rather than outright power, the KTM RC 160 delivers a very sporty riding experience. Its new-generation split-trellis frame, paired with a WP APEX USD fork and monoshock, offers solid confidence in every corner. The lightweight alloys, shod with soft compound tyres, make it super agile, while the large disc brakes with Supermoto ABS provide excellent braking and confidence.
If you are looking for something to just reach from point A to point B, this is not the right machine for you. However, if you want to do that spiritedly, attacking every corner on the way, the RC 160 is where it’s at.
Simple Energy One
Price: Rs 1.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
If you want the practicality of a scooter with performance that puts a lot of motorcycles to shame, the Simple One does a 0 to 40kmph sprint in just 2.55 seconds (claimed). While most electric scooters ask you to compromise, usually on the range, this one’s IP67-rated 5.0kWh battery pack claims an IDC range of up to 265km.
If you’re done with fuel bills and want something that feels futuristic and convenient without compromising on performance, the Simple One can make your daily commute feel like anything but ordinary.
Royal Enfield Bullet 350 (Standard)
Price: Rs 1.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
If you are a retro bike enthusiast and sports bikes are not to your taste, the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 Standard is a genuinely timeless machine to own. A design that has been enthusiasts’ favourite for decades, the current version does not try to change that formula but simply refines it. While retaining immense heritage value, it now brings new-age features and the advanced J-series 349cc, air- and oil-cooled engine
Kawasaki KLX230
Price: Rs 1.84 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
While all the other machines on this list are built to conquer tarmac, the Kawasaki KLX230 shines where tarmac ends. It is inspired by the Japanese automaker’s aggressive KX motocross DNA but made road-legal and ready for everything from streets to trails.
Paired with a six-speed transmission, its 233cc air-cooled, 4-stroke engine produces about 19PS and 19Nm. Modest power, but a kerb weight of just 139kg makes it feel nimble and pretty agile. The only dealbreaker could be its 880mm seat height, which could make it inaccessible for some Indian riders. Apart from a small LCD screen and switchable ABS, it doesn’t have too many features. However, for explorers who love taking their machines beyond tarmac or riders who just want to have fun on dirt, mud and trails, the KLX230 is simply irresistible.
Hero Xtreme 250R
Price: Rs 1.72 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
The Hero Xtreme 250R is the most affordable bike on this list. Its potent 249cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled engine, paired with a six-speed gearbox via a slipper clutch, makes about 30PS and 25Nm. It makes the 168kg bike sprint from zero to 60 in just 3.2 seconds. While the numbers are pretty impressive for the asking price, what makes it more special is its list of premium equipment.
For riders who want to enter the performance segment without stretching their budget too far, it is difficult to find a better starting point than the Xtreme 250R.
