While choosing a bike under Rs. 2 lakh might be an exciting proposition, it is also a daunting one for most potential buyers. This is simply because of the vast number of options available in this price segment. Sports bikes and cruisers are two of the most popular bike categories in this range.
Sports bikes and cruisers are different types of bikes, commanding different design philosophies and riding styles. While all sports bikes under Rs. 2 lakh are defined by agility and high-speed performance, cruisers embody the comfort of low-slung seats and classic touring capabilities.
While both command a resounding appeal among Indian riders, choosing one over the other requires extensive consideration. To do so, you first need to understand the major differences between the two.
Differences between sports bikes and cruiser bikes under Rs. 2 lakh
Here is a list of the major differences between sports and cruiser bikes under Rs. 2 lakh.
- Design: The best sports bikes under Rs. 2 lakh flaunt sleek fairings and bold graphics, embodying a modern, aggressive, and aerodynamic design. Alternatively, cruiser bikes stand out from the crowd with a classic, retro appeal.
- Riding posture: Equipped with low handlebars and high footpegs, sports bikes command a crouched and forward-leaning riding position giving an aggressive stance to the rider. The low seats and wider handlebars of a cruiser bike ensure an upright riding position. Their relaxed and laid-back riding stance makes them a comfortable option for long-distance journeys.
- Performance: Sports bikes below Rs. 2 lakh are performance-oriented bikes fitted with high-power engines. Producing ample horsepower, these bikes are known for their swift acceleration, high-speed performance, and agility. Alternatively, cruiser bikes feature larger engines with high low-end torque, keeping the bike cool during long touring sessions.
- Handling: Sports bikes under Rs. 2 lakh are lighter than cruisers. This gives them better cornering capabilities and manoeuvrability. Cruisers typically have a wider and heavier frame, offering them impeccable on-road stability.
- Suitability: Sports or racing bikes under Rs. 2 lakh are fit for the open track and shorter commutes. Their forward-leaning riding stance may not be favourable for long-distance or everyday rides. The comfortable riding position and low-end torque of a cruiser bike under Rs. 2 lakh make it perfect for city rides. This also adds to its touring capabilities.
Choosing the right bike under Rs. 2 lakh
Choosing the best bike under Rs. 2 lakh depends on your riding preferences and style. If you love chasing the thrill of a high-speed riding experience and crave agility, a sports bike under Rs. 2 lakh would be the right choice. However, if you are looking for a touring partner that glides through congested Indian roads while prioritising riding comfort, a laid-back cruiser may be your best bet.
At the same time, you should also factor in your expertise and skill levels. While cruiser bikes are more stable and offer easy handling that is well suited for beginners, high-speed sports bikes may be better suited for experienced riders.
Moreover, while you will find several cruiser bikes under Rs. 2 lakh, options might be limited when it comes to sports bikes. If you are looking for the best sports bike under Rs. 2 lakh, we recommend increasing your budget slightly to find models with greater power and better performance.
Top sports bikes under Rs. 2 lakh
If you are looking for the best racing bike under Rs. 2 lakh, you can consider one of the following top-selling options.
- Yamaha R15 V4: The Yamaha R15 V4 is a powerful sports bike under Rs. 2 lakh. It features a 155cc liquid-cooled engine that churns out 18.1 bhp power and 14.2 Nm torque. It has an LCD console, Bluetooth connectivity, two riding modes, dual-channel ABS, and traction control.
- Honda Hornet 2.0: Honda Hornet 2.0 blends a sharp, forward-leaning bulky fuel tank and sporty split seat saddle with an 184.4cc air-cooled Fi engine to bring you the best of style and power. With dual petal disc brakes and ABS, the Honda Hornet brings you best-in-class safety, even while cruising at a top speed of 130 kmph.
- Suzuki Gixxer SF: This affordable fully faired sports bike under Rs. 2 lakh runs on a 155cc engine that produces a peak power of 13.4 bhp and a peak torque of 13.8 Nm. As one of the best mileage sports bikes under Rs. 2 lakh, Gixxer SF features a 12-litre fuel tank and clocks an ARAI-claimed mileage of 47 kmpl.
- Yamaha R15S: Featuring a standout unibody seat, this Yamaha sports bike combines the racing DNA of the R Series with pillion riding comfort. Its 155cc liquid-cooled 4v SOHC engine comes mated to a 6-speed transmission system and an assist and slipper clutch for smooth acceleration and unbeatable control.
Top cruiser bikes under Rs. 2 lakh
If you prefer laid-back and relaxed rides, you can choose from one of the following top-selling cruiser bikes under Rs. 2 lakh.
- Royal Enfield Classic 350: Powered by a 349cc engine, this timeless cruiser sports a tear-drop fuel tank, side-slung exhaust, and split-saddle seat for classic retro appeal and powerful cruising. The RE Classic 350 retails in 5 variants and 11 colour options, allowing you to cruise in style.
- Jawa 42 Double Disc BS6: Jawa 42 combines old-school charm with modern features to bring you the best of both worlds. Built on a 293cc liquid-cooled Fi engine, this bike offers the perfect combination of power, refinement, and torque. Rolling on alloy wheels with 280 mm front and 240 mm rear disc brakes and dual-channel ABS, Jawa 42 makes city commutes comfortable and safe.
- TVS Ronin: Equipped with a 225.9cc engine that churns out a power of 20.1 bhp and torque of 19.93 Nm, TVS Ronin gives you enough fuel to cruise through city roads. The top bike variant also sports TVS SmartXonnect Bluetooth support, two riding modes, and ace Glide Through technology for smooth rides and unmatched control.
- Royal Enfield Hunter 350: Based on RE’s 349cc J-Platform engine, the Hunter 350 is a neo-retro cruiser, retailing in Retro and Metro variants. The Retro line-up pairs disc and drum brakes with spoke wheels, while the Metro option rolls on disc brakes on both ends and alloy wheels.
Shop for a sports bike or cruiser with the Bajaj Finserv Two-wheeler Loan
Whether you want to buy a Bajaj sports bike under Rs. 2 lakh or a retro Royal Enfield cruiser, you do not have to spend years saving up for the purchase. Instead, you can opt for a Bajaj Finserv Two-wheeler Loan and fund your purchase today. You can borrow up to Rs. 21 lakh and enjoy up to 100% financing on the on-road price of the model. In other words, you can take your favourite bike under Rs. 2 lakh home without depositing a penny. However, the loan amount you receive depends on your two-wheeler loan eligibility. You can pace out EMIs over 12 months to 72 months and enjoy a stress-free and comfortable repayment period. So, with the Bajaj Finserv Two-wheeler Loan, you can chase an adrenaline high or cruise in style without draining your pockets. To get started, you need to book your bike online on Bajaj Mall.
