Which Are the Most Affordable Retro or Neo-Classic Bikes in India?
Retro and neo-classic motorcycles blend vintage aesthetics with modern technology. Options available in the Indian market include the Kawasaki W175, TVS Ronin, Royal Enfield Hunter 350, and Yamaha XSR155, each offering unique features and pricing.
Which Are the Most Affordable Retro or Neo-Classic Bikes in India?
Retro and neo-classic motorcycles combine old-school styling with modern engines, braking systems and everyday features. From round headlamps and teardrop-shaped fuel tanks to relaxed riding positions and simple bodywork, these bikes appeal to riders who want a distinctive design without necessarily spending a premium.
The Indian market offers several options across different budgets, including the Kawasaki W175, Bajaj Avenger range, TVS Ronin, Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and Yamaha XSR155. While some focus on affordable city commuting, others offer stronger performance, modern technology or a more traditional roadster experience.
For this comparison, ex-showroom prices have been checked against official manufacturer websites wherever available. Prices are indicative of the listed variants and can vary by city, colour and model year. Claimed mileage figures are included only where a reliable manufacturer figure is available; real-world fuel economy will depend on riding conditions.
What are the most affordable retro or neo-classic bikes in India?
Here are some of the options worth considering, arranged broadly by their entry-level pricing.
Prices and specifications: manufacturer websites and published technical details, checked on 29 October 2026.
1. Kawasaki W175
Rs 1.21 lakh (Ex-showroom)
The W175 is a traditional retro motorcycle with a round headlamp, simple bodywork, spoke wheels and a semi-digital instrument cluster. Its relatively low weight makes it worth considering for riders who prefer a straightforward motorcycle for everyday use.
- Engine: 177cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power and torque: 13 PS and 13.2 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Claimed mileage: No current official figure confirmed
- Kerb weight: 135kg
- Seat height: 790mm
- Brakes and safety: 270mm front disc, rear drum and single-channel ABS
The W175 prioritises simplicity over outright performance. Its rear drum brake and single-channel ABS are less comprehensive than the dual-channel ABS systems available on some rivals. Buyers should also confirm the latest model year and variant price with a Kawasaki dealer before booking.
2. TVS Ronin
Rs 1.30 lakh (ex-showroom)
The Ronin combines a round LED headlamp and relaxed proportions with contemporary hardware. It is a middle ground between a traditional roadster and a modern commuter, with a more powerful engine than the W175.
- Engine: 225.9cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power and torque: 20.4 PS and 19.93 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Claimed mileage: No current official figure confirmed
- Kerb weight: 159kg for the base variant
- Seat height: 795mm
- Brakes and safety: Front and rear disc brakes; single-channel ABS on the base variant, with dual-channel ABS on higher variants
The Ronin offers a useful combination of performance and everyday practicality. Its Glide Through Technology helps with low-speed riding, while the assist and slipper clutch reduces clutch effort. Buyers who want dual-channel ABS will need to check the appropriate variant rather than assume it is standard across the range.
3. Royal Enfield Hunter 350
Rs 1.37 lakh (Ex-showroom)
The Hunter 350 has compact roadster styling, a round headlamp and a 349cc engine. The 2026 model also gets an LED headlamp, revised suspension and improved seat cushioning, making it an option for riders who want classic styling for regular city rides.
- Engine: 349cc, air-oil-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power and torque: 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Claimed mileage: No current official figure confirmed
- Kerb weight: 181kg
- Seat height: 790mm
- Brakes and safety: 300mm front disc, 270mm rear disc and dual-channel ABS
The Hunter's stronger low-speed torque suits city traffic and relaxed cruising. However, at 181kg, it is considerably heavier than the W175 and Ronin. Riders who frequently manoeuvre in tight parking spaces or move their bikes without starting the engine should consider this difference.
4. Yamaha XSR155
Rs 1.50 lakh (Ex-showroom)
The XSR155 brings a retro-inspired design to a lightweight, performance-focused platform. Its round LED headlamp and tuck-and-roll seat are paired with a liquid-cooled engine, variable valve actuation and modern electronic features.
- Engine: 155cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power and torque: 18.4 PS and 14.2 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Claimed mileage: No current official figure confirmed
- Kerb weight: 137kg
- Seat height: 810mm
- Brakes and safety: Front and rear disc brakes, dual-channel ABS and traction control
The XSR155 is lighter than the other motorcycles in this list and offers a six-speed gearbox. Its engine is more performance-oriented, with power delivered at higher engine speeds. However, its 810mm seat height may be less convenient for shorter riders, and its colour-wise prices need to be checked before comparing it directly with the base variants of its rivals.
What should you compare before choosing?
Price is only one part of the decision. Engine character, braking equipment, weight, seat height and maintenance costs can make a substantial difference to everyday ownership.
| Motorcycle | Ex-showroom price | Engine | Power / torque | Kerb weight | Seat height |
| Kawasaki W175 | Rs 1.21 lakh | 177cc | 13 PS / 13.2 Nm | 135kg | 790mm |
| TVS Ronin | Rs 1.30 lakh | 225.9cc | 20.4 PS / 19.93 Nm | 159kg | 795mm |
| Royal Enfield Hunter 350 | Rs 1.37 lakh | 349cc | 20.2 bhp / 27 Nm | 181kg | 790mm |
| Yamaha XSR155 | Rs 1.50 lakh | 155cc | 18.4 PS / 14.2 Nm | 137kg | 810mm |
FAQs
1. Which is the cheapest retro motorcycle in this list?
The Kawasaki W175 has an official model-page price reference of Rs 1.21 lakh ex-showroom. Confirm the current price and availability with an authorised Kawasaki dealer before purchasing.
2. Which retro bike is the lightest among these options?
The Kawasaki W175 has a listed kerb weight of 135kg, followed by the Yamaha XSR155 at 137kg. These figures make both worth considering for riders who prioritise easier low-speed manoeuvring.
3. Which motorcycle has the highest torque in this comparison?
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has the highest listed torque at 27 Nm. The TVS Ronin produces 19.93 Nm, while the W175 and XSR155 produce 13.2 Nm and 14.2 Nm, respectively.
4. Which bike is suitable for shorter riders?
The Kawasaki W175, TVS Ronin and Royal Enfield Hunter 350 have listed seat heights of 790mm, 795mm and 790mm, respectively. However, the bike's seat width, suspension and the rider's inseam also affect how comfortably both feet can reach the ground.
5. Are retro motorcycles good for daily commuting?
Yes. Models such as the W175, Ronin and Hunter 350 can be used for daily commuting. The best choice depends on traffic conditions, fuel costs, weight, clutch effort, riding comfort and the availability of service centres.
6. Should I choose a 155cc bike or a 350cc bike?
A 155cc motorcycle such as the Yamaha XSR155 is lighter and offers a different, higher-revving performance character. A 350cc motorcycle such as the Hunter 350 provides more torque at lower engine speeds. Consider your commute, highway use and riding preferences rather than engine capacity alone.
End Article
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