Indian bike market provides several options to seasoned and amateur riders. If you plan to buy a two-wheeler, understanding the different types and their features will help you choose a good one that matches your needs and personal taste. This article will look at the different types of bikes on Indian roads and underline the importance of bike insurance for a tension-free ride. Ultimately, we aim to assist you in making a decision that aligns with your best interests.
Types of Bikes in India
Based on design, utility, and performance, bikes in India can be categorised into the following types-
These motorcycles are designed for easy riding, making them a good choice for beginners. These are lightweight and have automatic transmission, ideal for urban landscapes. Popular examples are the TVS XL100 and Honda Navi.
Advantages
- Easy to ride
- Low maintenance
- Affordable
These are the most common types of motorcycles on Indian roads. They are ideal for daily commutes and offer a blend of mileage and performance. They run smoothly on the road and sidewalks and are popular with bike enthusiasts. Honda Splendour and Bajaj Pulsar are the top street bikes in India.
Advantages
- Fuel efficiency
- Comfortable for medium-distance rides
- Budget-friendly
Sports bikes are premium motorcycles with speed, style, and performance that suit adventurous rides. These are lighter in weight and packed with modern technology. They have high-performance, four-stroke, liquid-cooled engines. Some popular sports bikes in India are the Hero Xpulse 200 and Kawasaki Ninja.
Advantages-
- High-speed
- Superior handling
- Sleek and stylish make
These bikes are specially made for off-roading and uneven landscapes. Knobby tires, lightweight structure, and better ground clearance make them popular for adventure bikers. Made with plastic, these bikes are also used for races and exploration. Kawasaki KLX 140G and Suzuki RM-Z250 are examples of dirt bikes available in the Indian market.
Advantages-
- Amazing off-roading experience
- Durable construction
- Suitable for exploration of trails and uneven regions
These are known for superior comfort and style. The relaxed seating position, wide set handles, and powerful engine make cruiser bikes ideal for long rides. Also known as beach cruisers, these two-wheelers became fashionable in the 1930s-50s, when they were used for leisurely rides along sea beaches. These continue to be popular among riders. Some common cruiser bikes in India are the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Harley Davidson Street 750.
Advantages-
- Powerful performance
- Stylish make
- Comfortable for long rides
These two-wheelers are exclusively designed for long rides. They are packed with larger fuel tanks, space for luggage, and windshields to protect the rider. With a balance of endurance and comfort, these bikes are loved by adventurers who love to take the roads less travelled. The Royal Enfield Himalayan and Bajaj Dominar 400 are popular touring bikes among Indian bikers.
Advantages-
- Balance of performance and comfort
- Perfect for navigating highways and remote areas
- Advanced features for touring
These two-wheelers are one of the most popular bikes in India. Affordable, easy to ride, and convenient for all ages, scooters come with automatic transmission, ample leg space, and comfortable seats, all within an affordable price range. Honda Activa, TVS Jupiter, and Suzuki Access 125 are some of the most common scooters among Indian buyers.
Advantages-
- Easy to learn and ride
- Ample storage space
- Affordable price and fuel-efficient performance
Why Buy Bike Insurance Online?
The benefits of buying bike insurance online are listed below:
- Compared to going to the dealer, purchasing bike insurance online and renewing it on time saves significant time and effort.
- Online bike insurance is also cost-effective, as one can take advantage of various discounts and offers.
- The online bike insurance purchase process is also far more transparent as compared to showroom bike insurance, as one can check the reviews and feedback of existing customers.
- The online claim settlement process is also efficient and swifter, making it easy to file claims and keep track of their status.
- The online renewal process is also easy and gets done with a few clicks.
- Dealers provide “bundled” bike insurance policies. Purchasing it online allows customers to choose a policy that best meets their requirements.
- As no intermediaries are involved when you make a purchase online, you are free to filter features according to your needs. This eliminates the possibility of the preference of any insurance agent. Hence, you are in a position to make a selection based on the policy’s features rather than the opinion or recommendation of an individual.
To sum up, buying bike insurance online offers numerous benefits, such as cost-effectiveness, transparency, convenience, and faster claim settlement. It is indeed a more convenient and financially rewarding way of purchasing a bike insurance policy as compared to purchasing it from dealers.
FAQs
- What is the most popular bike in India?
Commuter bikes, due to their affordability and performance, are the most popular type among Indian riders.
- -Which is the number 1 bike in India?
Hero Splendour is voted the number 1 bike in India, preferred by most buyers for its fuel efficiency and durability.
- What is the most fuel-efficient bike in India?
Hero Splendour Plus and Bajaj Platina 110 are popular for their superb mileage, perfect for cost-conscious buyers.
- Are dirt bikes legal on Indian roads?
Dirt bikes are not allowed on Indian roads as they do not come with proper safety equipment such as headlights, mirrors, and brake lights and are thus considered “non-street” bikes.
- Is scooty safer than a bike?
Due to better stability and comfort, scooty may be preferred over bikes. However, overall safety depends on the rider's skills and ability to follow road rules.
- Are bigger bikes safer?
Bigger motorcycles offer stability at higher speeds but can be difficult to control for beginners, making them prone to accidents.
Conclusion
India has a diverse bike market that caters to the needs and tastes of its varied consumer base. From dirt bikes to everyday commuter bikes, the choices are unending. Thus, it is important to know about the different options to make an informed decision. Whichever model you buy, it is essential to obtain bike insurance to protect your cherished two-wheeler. Having understood the selections available in the market, you are all set to buy the perfect bike yourself. Happy riding!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.