KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Yamaha MT-15 V2: Lightweight, agile, 155cc engine, sporty commuter choice.
- Honda CB300R: Neo-retro styling, refined 286cc engine, premium appeal.
- Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z: 373cc engine, four riding modes, feature-loaded.
- TVS Apache RTR 310: 312cc engine, ride modes, sharp aggressive design.
- KTM 250 Duke: 249cc engine, quick-shifter, premium underpinnings, TFT display.
5 Naked Motorcycles in India Under 2.50 Lakh: Naked motorcycles have become a popular choice among Indian riders, offering an exciting mix of power, agility and aggressive styling. With minimal bodywork, these machines focus on performance and handling, making them ideal for city commutes and spirited weekend rides. If you are in the market for a naked streetfighter under Rs 2.5 lakh, there are plenty of options that deliver good performance without breaking the bank.
From lightweight commuters to feature-packed streetfighters, here are five of the best-naked motorcycles in India that provide a perfect balance between affordability and excitement. Make sure you join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay versed on the latest automotive news.
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5 Naked Motorcycles in India Under 2.50 Lakh
Yamaha MT-15 V2
The Yamaha MT-15 V2 is a compact yet aggressive-looking streetfighter inspired by the Dark Side of Japan. Its 155cc liquid-cooled engine, equipped with VVA, delivers a punchy mid-range and a smooth top end. The bike's lightweight nature (141kg) makes it an agile companion in city traffic and an enjoyable machine in twisty sections. However, the stiff suspension can feel a bit harsh on bad roads.
Despite its small pillion seat, the MT-15 remains a fantastic choice for solo riders looking for a performance-oriented daily commuter with an impressive mileage of around 56 kmpl in the city.
Honda CB300R
A neo-retro roadster with premium appeal, the Honda CB300R brings a minimalist design and a lightweight chassis. Powered by a 286cc liquid-cooled engine producing 31.1PS and 27.5Nm, it offers refined performance with an assist-and-slipper clutch for smoother gear shifts. Its USD forks and mono-shock provide composed handling, while dual-channel ABS ensures safe braking.
The bike's low kerb weight (146kg) makes it extremely flickable, though its 9.7-litre fuel tank limits range. The fully digital instrument console lacks smartphone connectivity, which might disappoint tech-savvy riders. Priced at Rs 2.40 lakh (ex-showroom), the CB300R competes with premium rivals like the KTM Duke 390 and Triumph Speed 400 but remains a great option for those seeking a balanced, lightweight machine.
Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z
The Pulsar NS400Z is Bajaj's most powerful naked bike yet, packing a 373cc single-cylinder engine that churns out 40PS and 35Nm. Derived from the Dominar 400, this motor is paired with a six-speed gearbox and a slip-and-assist clutch. The NS400Z features four riding modes- Road, Sport, Rain, and Off-road-along with switchable traction control, making it an impressive value-for-money proposition.
It gets an LED lighting setup, a Bluetooth-enabled LCD console with turn-by-turn navigation, and a USB charging port. Weighing 174kg, it has a 12-litre fuel tank and a comfortable riding position. Priced at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom), the NS400Z undercuts its direct rivals while offering premium features usually seen on more expensive motorcycles.
5 Naked Motorcycles in India Under 2.50 Lakh: Apache RTR 310
TVS has stepped up the game with the Apache RTR 310, a streetfighter derived from its fully faired sibling, the RR 310. Its 312cc single-cylinder engine delivers 35.6PS and 28.7Nm. The RTR 310 has a peppy performance. A ride-by-wire throttle, multiple ride modes and a five-inch TFT instrument cluster enhance the tech package. The bike's sharp design and adjustable suspension make it versatile for city and highway riding.
With a comfortable split seat and an aggressive yet relaxed riding posture, the RTR 310 appeals to riders who want sporty dynamics without compromising comfort. It faces off against the KTM 390 Duke and Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z but stands out with its unique balance of technology and affordability.
KTM 250 Duke
The KTM 250 Duke recently received a price cut, making it a more attractive option for enthusiasts. It now comes equipped with a 5-inch TFT display, LED DRLs, and premium underpinnings that elevate its value proposition. The 2024 KTM 250 Duke is powered by a 249cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that churns out 31PS at 9,250rpm and 25Nm at 7,250rpm. This marks a slight improvement over the previous model. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox and features a quick-shifter along with a slipper clutch for smoother shifts.
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Verdict
So, this was our list of the five naked motorcycles under 2.50 lakh (ex-sh). Each of these bikes brings something unique- be it the Yamaha MT-15 V2's agility, the Pulsar NS400Z's tech, or the Apache RTR 310's versatility. If you crave premium performance, the KTM 250 Duke or Honda CB300R are solid picks. Which one suits your style?
