Best Two-Wheelers for College Students in India 2026

Top Two-Wheelers for College Students in India 2026

From feature-packed bikes to mileage-centric scooters, here are the 10 best student bike options you should consider in 2026:

1. Hero Xtreme 125R

Since its release, the Hero Xtreme 125R has taken the 125cc two-wheeler segment by storm. With its bold aesthetic that can contest even higher displacement bikes and a price point that fits the pocket, many consider it the best bike for students in this segment.

• Price: INR 89,000 onwards (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 124.7 cc

• Power: 11.4 bhp

• Features: Ride By Wire, Dual Channel ABS, Ride Modes, etc.

• Mileage: 66 kmpl (ARAI)

Note: While navigating the 125 cc options, you may also consider the TVS Raider for a smooth and tech-loaded ride, or the Honda CB 125 Hornet, if you are looking for something fresh.

2. TVS Ntorq 125

A performance-centric sporty scooter with a sleek design, vibrant colours and tons of features. It is a versatile two-wheeler, offering raw power and speed with every blip of the throttle. It is quite popular among youngsters and college students.

• Price: INR 80,900 onwards (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 124.8 cc

• Power: 9.25 bhp

• Features: Front Disc Brake, BT-enabled Digital Console, Navigation Assist, etc.

• Mileage: 48.5 kmpl (ARAI)

3. Yamaha Aerox 155

For college students seeking a powerful, sleek-looking and feature-packed bike without the hassle of manual gear-shifting, the Aerox 155 is an ideal choice. This maxi-scooter comes with Yamaha’s engine and technology, tuned for performance and reliability.

• Price: INR 1,38,075 onwards (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 155 cc

• Power: 14.75 bhp

• Features: Traction Control, VVA, ABS, etc.

• Mileage: 40 kmpl (ARAI)

4. Yamaha XSR 155

The XSR 155 is the latest offering from Yamaha and has become quite the sensation within the Indian bike community, particularly among the youngsters. Its timeless retro-sport blend is built for speed, consistency and versatility. Additionally, you can customise it with a factory-approved Cafe Racer or Scrambler Kit.

• Price: INR 1,49,990 onwards (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 155 cc

• Power: 18.1 bhp

• Features: Round LCD console, Assist & Slipper Clutch, Traction Control, etc.

• Mileage: 45.5 kmpl (ARAI)

5. Yamaha MT15 V2/R15 V4

Both the MT15 and R15 by Yamaha have solidified their names in the Indian bike community over the years. College students like it for its sporty looks, top-of-the-line features, dependable performance and practical mileage.

Go for MT15 for its hyper naked design and upright handlebars, or prefer R15 for its fully-faired style and aggressive riding posture. The R15 is the best mileage bike for youngsters seeking an entry-level, performance-focused sports bike.

• Price: INR 1,55,469 for MT15 and INR 1,74,019 for R15 onwards (ex-showroom).

• Engine: 155 cc

• Power: 18.1 bhp

• Features: Traction Control, Assist & Slipper Clutch, Y-Connect, etc.

• Mileage: 45 to 51 kmpl

6. Bajaj Pulsar N160

The Pulsar N160 makes itself an ideal entry-level machine, boasting a refined engine, a light clutch, and the safety of dual-channel ABS. Its striking colourways and sporty yet practical design make it incredibly versatile, perfectly suitable to weave through dense city traffic or cruise on the highway. Many consider it the best bike for students in its category.

• Price: INR 1,13,133 onwards (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 164.82 cc

• Power: 15.68 bhp

• Features: Dual-Channel ABS, TBT Navigation, Ride Modes, etc.

• Mileage: 51.6 kmpl (ARAI)

7. Hero Xpulse 210

The Hero Xpulse 210 is made for the Indian roads, offering a smooth ride through and through. It is a lightweight, powerful and affordable adventure bike, designed to tackle any terrain you throw at it. Use it for college commute and city ride during the week, and off-roading/adventure rides during weekends.

• Price: INR 1,62,065 onwards (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 210 cc

• Power: 24.2 bhp

• Features: Assist & Slipper Clutch, TFT Console, Switchable ABS Mode, etc.

• Mileage: 35-40 kmpl

Note: With rising petrol prices, an electric bike for students can be both a cost-efficient and practical alternative. The best choices are Bajaj Chetak, Ola S1, Ather Rizta and 450 (X & S).

8. TVS Ronin

The TVS Ronin is one of the most underrated bikes in its segment. It has a particular appeal to youngsters, boasting a refreshing modern-retro roadster design and offering a good power-to-performance ratio packed in a lightweight form factor.

• Price: INR 1,25,690 onwards (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 225.9 cc

• Power: 20.1 bhp

• Features: Rain & Urban ABS Modes, GTT, Slipper Clutch, etc.

• Mileage: 42 kmpl (ARAI)

9. KTM 250 Duke

Positioned as a favourite among younger riders, the KTM 250 Duke offers exceptional value. It is a lightweight, naked sports bike, packing raw but linear power with quick acceleration. It has more spirit than the Duke 200 but is less intimidating than the Duke 390, striking the perfect blend of thrill and daily use practicality.

• Price: INR 2,12,196 onwards (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 249.07 cc

• Power: 30.57 bhp

• Features: QuickShifter, Assist & Slipper Clutch, Supermoto ABS,

• Mileage: 30.8 kmpl (ARAI)

10. Royal Enfield Hunter 350

The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is currently one of the most popular bikes in the Indian two-wheeler market. It is the best bike for students who are particularly interested in the signature thump and riding experience of an RE bike. The Hunter 350 is the lightest RE bike, paired with a refined J-series engine, slightly aggressive seating posture, prominent exhaust note and great low-end torque.

• Price: INR 1,37,640 onwards (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 349.34 cc

• Power: 20.2 bhp

• Features: Digi-Analogue Console with Tripper Pod, Type-C Charging Port, Dual-Channel ABS, etc.

• Mileage: 36.2 kmpl (ARAI)

Things to Consider for College Students Before Buying a Two-Wheeler

Here are some things college students should consider before buying a two-wheeler in India:

1. Evaluate needs

Start by evaluating your specific needs, focusing on daily commute distance and the bike’s primary purpose. Build upon this framework to find what you prioritise the most: efficiency, mileage, raw power & speed, stylish looks or something more balanced.

2. Budget

Browse options both online and offline to get an idea of the prices and decide your budget. This will help you narrow down your search and avoid overspending.

3. Bike insurance

Take time selecting your dream bike and put equal emphasis on ensuring safety. Get proper riding gear and invest in a solid bike insurance policy. At Jio Insurance Broking, you can get instant quotes on the best bike insurance policies and buy your preferred plan in under minutes.

Conclusion

There are countless options available in every segment of the Indian two-wheeler market. For college

students, choosing a bike or scooter that fits their college commute needs, lifestyle, and budget is the wisest choice. Do your due diligence with research and take test rides before making any final decision.

FAQs