10 Most Popular Sub-200cc Naked Bikes In India
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10 Most Popular Sub-200cc Naked Bikes In India

Reviews by Team Drivio | 25 Apr 2023

These 10 bikes also rake in good sales numbers for their companies. 

  • The KTM 200 Duke started the small capacity performance-oriented trend more than a decade ago.
  • It’s still soldiered on to be one of the best bikes in its segment.
  • But now, the segment is ruled by the Apache series. 

India has always had a soft spot for naked bikes, especially the small capacity ones. What they bring to the table is enough performance to keep you thrilled, but not overwhelmingly so. And more importantly, the performance is usable. So these bikes keep your commutes fun and your weekend rides even better. So here we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best naked bikes in the sub-200cc segment: 

   1)  KTM 125 Duke

The KTM 125 Duke is not inexpensive. However, the previous entry-level Duke, the 200, now costs approximately Rs 2 lakh (ex-showroom) because of rising rates and the 5-year insurance mandate. This pushed the entrance point into the KTM family so far ahead of schedule that the firm desperately needed something to fill the void. 

So the real question is if it is worth the asking price. While the 125 Duke is a lot of fun to ride and feels as premium as any of its siblings, it doesn't really qualify as a fantastic deal in terms of performance. However, as an entry-level KTM, we believe it does!

   2)  KTM 200 Duke

The KTM 200 Duke is now a superior commuter as well as a capable tourer for an extra Rs 10,496 (in its newest generation). It's still as rev-happy as it was in 2012, with no concessions in terms of performance. Low ground clearance and greater weight on board may simply mean that you have to be a little more cautious while tackling obstacles that are common on our roads. 

   3)  Hero Xtreme 160R

The Hero Xtreme 160R is one of the most reasonably priced bikes in its class. It's a decent buy if you're looking for a no-nonsense everyday commuter with slightly sporty intents. It also looks nice, is incredibly comfortable, and handles all that Indian roads can throw at it with ease.

   4)  Honda Hornet 2.0

The Hornet has its advantages. The Hornet is an excellent city bike, thanks to its economical motor, comfortable ergonomics, light handling, and smooth ride. If you're currently riding a 125cc bike and want something with more performance to spice up your commute, but don't necessarily want anything really sporty with 'racing DNA,' the Hornet provides a reasonable and comfortable motorcycling experience.

   5)  Apache RTR 200 4V

The span-adjustable hand levers are another new feature on the RTR 200 4V. Again, this is a category first, since it is the cheapest bike in the country to include this feature. This adaptability goes a long way towards tailoring the RTR 200 to the needs of the rider.

At only Rs 3,000 more than the previous model, the RTR 200 4V's latest improvements scarcely hurt your budget. That's what makes it so appealing. It does not waver in its commuter sensibilities; in fact, it is more focused than ever. 

   6)  Apache RTR 160

The RTR 160 is full of emotion and joy, and the majority of its flaws are tolerable. The pricing is where you may struggle to justify this purchase to yourself. And the 4V variant is a tremendous blast, far more elegant and sophisticated, and the clear RTR 160 to buy in 2023. 

    7)  Apache RTR 160 4V

The updates were free when the bike was released in March 2021. And were the upgrades sufficient? We believe TVS has done enough to keep the rivals at bay and maintain the RTR's class dominance. Small flaws, like the brakes and a missing gear position indicator, remain, but they aren't enough to dissuade you from acquiring this fantastic bike. And not to mention, that this is definitely the better bike between it and the RTR 160 2V. 

    8)  MT-15 V2.0

The latest improvements, as expected, have improved the new MT-15. It looks and feels more premium, and the addition of a few additional functions is welcome. With the addition of twin channel ABS, the bike has become a lot more complete package. 

     9)  TVS Raider

The TVS Raider represents a new way of looking at the 125cc commuter segment. Of course, it is not without flaws. For example, the braking system may be improved. However, it is not a significant disadvantage and will not interfere with your riding experience. Guess TVS' effort to create a bike that is unique while accomplishing exactly what the rest of the world expects it to do has paid off.

     10)  Pulsar NS200

The key question is whether the Pulsar NS200 is still relevant today. Yes, partially. The Pulsar NS200 is still a popular member of the family, outselling the new-generation Pulsar 250s by tenfold. And it's easy to see why. It's still the most thrilling naked Pulsar you can get your hands on, and with these upgrades, it's only getting better.