In recent years, electric scooters have gained popularity in India. However, for many middle-class families, petrol bikes still remain the most practical, affordable, and reliable choice. They offer low maintenance, long riding range, and easy fuel availability — something EVs still struggle with, especially in smaller towns and villages.
Let’s explore some of the most budget-friendly petrol bikes in India that are easy on the pocket and can travel long distances on a single full tank.
🔥 Why Petrol Bikes Still Make More Sense for Many:
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🚧 Charging infrastructure in India is still developing. Petrol pumps are available everywhere.
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🔋 EVs have limited range and can take hours to charge.
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⚙️ Petrol bikes are mechanically simple, easy to maintain, and have long life.
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💰 Some top petrol bikes cost under ₹1 lakh, making them more affordable than most EVs.
🏍️ Top Petrol Bikes in India (2025) – Budget-Friendly & High Mileage
| Bike Name | Ex-showroom Price (INR) | Mileage (KM/L) | Fuel Tank Capacity | Total Range (1 Full Tank) | On-road Price (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Splendor Plus | ₹75,141 | 65-81 km/l | 9.8L | 637–794 km | ₹90,000 |
| Bajaj Platina 110 | ₹70,400 | 70-80 km/l | 11L | 770–880 km | ₹85,000 |
| TVS Sport | ₹66,400 | 70-80 km/l | 10L | 700–800 km | ₹80,000 |
| Honda CD 110 Dream | ₹73,400 | 60-70 km/l | 9.1L | 546–637 km | ₹88,000 |
| Hero HF Deluxe | ₹59,998 | 65-75 km/l | 9.6L | 624–720 km | ₹78,000 |
| Bajaj CT 110X | ₹69,626 | 70 km/l | 11L | 770 km | ₹83,000 |
💸 Compare with Electric Scooters
| Feature | Petrol Bike | Electric Scooter |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | ₹60,000 – ₹90,000 | ₹1 lakh – ₹1.5 lakh |
| Full Tank / Full Charge Range | 600–800 km | 80–120 km |
| Time to Refuel / Recharge | 5 minutes | 4–6 hours |
| Maintenance Cost | ₹500–₹1,000/year | ₹2,000–₹5,000/year (battery, software, etc.) |
| Fuel Cost | ₹100/litre (approx. ₹1.5/km) | ₹1–₹1.5/km (electricity) |
✅ Key Reasons Why Petrol Bikes Are Still Better for the Common Man
1. Long Travel Range
Petrol bikes can run up to 800 kilometers on a single tank. No EV in this price range comes close.
2. Low Purchase Cost
Most electric scooters cost ₹1.2 lakh or more, while petrol bikes are still available below ₹80,000.
3. Ease of Refueling
Refueling petrol takes just 5 minutes, while charging can take hours, and public charging stations are still rare.
4. Rugged for Indian Roads
Rural or semi-urban roads are often not suitable for electric scooters. Petrol bikes, especially models like the Bajaj CT 110X, are more durable.
5. Easy Maintenance
Simple engine design makes petrol bikes easy to repair in any local garage.
🛠️ Cost of Ownership Example – Hero Splendor Plus
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ex-showroom Price | ₹75,141 |
| On-road Price (incl. RTO, insurance) | ₹90,000 (approx) |
| Mileage | 70 km/l |
| Petrol Cost (May 2025) | ₹100/litre |
| Cost per KM | ₹1.4/km |
| First-year Service Cost | ₹800–₹1,200 |
🔚 Final Words
Electric vehicles are good for short city rides and tech-savvy users, but for the common man looking for reliability, long distance, and cost-effectiveness, petrol bikes still win the race. With a single tank taking you nearly 800 km, minimal servicing, and low purchase price, these bikes are here to stay — even in 2025.
