KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Yamaha R15 is the only faired motorcycle in this list.
- The Hero Xtreme 250R is the newest motorcycle in this list.
- The Bajaj Pulsar lineup covers multiple motorcycles under Rs 2 lakh.
Motorcycles with USD forks are becoming a popular phenomenon, and are increasingly being offered in more affordable price brackets. We will be looking at some of the most affordable motorcycles to offer USD forks as standard, and bear in mind that there are no retro motorcycles in this list, so if you're looking for that, you're looking in the wrong segment.
Before going into the finer details, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community to keep up with the latest news and updates from the automotive industry.
Also read: The Yamaha RX100 Is NOT Coming Back, Once And For All
Most Affordable Motorcycles With USD Forks Under Rs 2 Lakh
Bajaj Pulsar
The Bajaj Pulsar lineup consists of multiple models with USD forks as standard, starting from the N160, which can be had from Rs 1.42 lakh (ex-showroom). The N160 comes with a mean, streetfighter design but its compact dimensions and the chassis make it fairly agile. The powertrain is also responsive, and the gearbox does not feel clunky.
The list is followed by tbe Pulsar N250 at Rs 1.50 lakh, and the NS200, which comes in at Rs 1.58 lakh (ex-showroom). The NS200 got an important update sometime last year, with the additions including an LED headlamp, a new digital instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity, three ABS modes, and of course USD forks. Last but not the least, the Pulsar NS400Z which is one of the most affordable 400cc motorcycles available at Rs 1.84 lakh, and it is due to receive an upgrade soon (all prices ex-showroom).
Yamaha R15
The Yamaha R15 happens to be the only fully-faired motorcycle in this list, and it is easily the most affordable sportsbike one can buy today. Ever since its debut back in 2008, the R15 opened up the sportsbike segment for Indian customers, and dragging your knee down without shelling huge bucks was finally a possibility.
Packing a potent, yet refined 155cc, liquid-cooled powertrain, along with a sweetly-tuned chassis and very committed ergonomics, the R15 always has been a delightful motorcycle to ride. Over the years, Yamaha has continuosly tweaked the sportsbike and it remains popular among those buying their first performance motorcycle. The R15 can be had between Rs 1.84 lakh to Rs 1.89 lakh (ex-showroom).
Also read: Living With the Hero Destini 125 - Long Term Introduction Report
Yamaha MT-15
The MT-15 is based on the R15's proven platform, sharing a lot of the underpinnings and mehanicals with it, but in a naked streetfighter guise. As a result, the MT-15 benefits from the same chassis and the potent powertrain, and additionally its compact dimensions make it further more effective when navigating in the city.
However, when compared to its rivals like the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and the Bajaj Pulsar N160, the MT-15 does appear more expensive. Its prices range between Rs 1.69 lakh to Rs 1.74 lakh, depending on the colour scheme you pick.
Hero Xtreme 250R
The Xtreme 250R is Hero's newest naked motorcycle, and it is built on an all-new platform, with a 250cc liquid-cooled engine giving it 29.5bhp and 25Nm of torque. The bike was launched at the 2025 Auto Expo, with prices starting from Rs 1.79 lakh (ex-showroom).
The Xtreme 250R goes up squarely against the KTM 250 Duke and the Bajaj Pulsar N250. All three motorcycles offer a great overall package, but it remains to be seen which one trumps the other. Perhaps it's time for a proper real-world comparison.
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
The RTR 160 4V is among the most popular Apaches on the road today, competing fiercely against the Pulsar N160 in this case. It shares the same 159.7cc, single-cylinder powertrain with the 2V, but the additional two valves make the difference in terms of power output; 17.3bhp at 9250rpm and 14.73Nm of 7000rpm.
The RTR 160 4V gives the N160 very close competition in terms of the ride experience and overall setup of the bike. The bike was recently given USD forks as a standard part, and its prices begin from Rs 1.39 lakh (ex-showroom).
Also read: Indias First Geared EV Bike? Meet The Mind Behind The Matter Aera!
Verdict
These motorcycles are some of the most affordable options to feature USD forks under Rs 2 lakh. With most of them being very potent street motorcycles, you really cannot go wrong with either of them.
