There was a time in India when 125cc bikes looked simple and rugged, meant only for basic commuting. Fast forward to today, and those same 125cc bikes have transformed dramatically in design and features. Some might even say they resemble something like the Kawasaki Z900 in terms of styling cues. Many riders refer to these modern 125cc bikes as “baby Z900s,” but that’s more of a compliment than reality. The truth is, that motorcycle companies are pushing the envelope striving every day to pack stylish and advanced features into affordable machines. And right now, is without doubt, a golden time for bikers in India.
If you’re someone who has always dreamt of owning a feature-loaded, stylish motorcycle without burning a hole in your pocket, this era is for you. There was a time when features like a colored digital instrument cluster were reserved for high-end bikes like the Duke 390. But now, even bikes in the 200cc range flaunt such advanced dashboards. Forget that even quick shifters, which were once only seen in liter-class superbikes, are now available on bikes like the Yamaha R15 (155cc). Motorcycle brands are constantly upgrading their machines, and if you’re planning to buy a new bike this might be the best time ever. But before making a move, pause because some underrated launches and upcoming machines are truly worth the wait.
Underrated Motorcycles That Deserve More Attention
Let’s begin with bikes that are already on sale but haven’t received the attention they deserve. Two such bikes stand out.
Honda Rebel 500: A Lifestyle on Two Wheels
The Honda Rebel 500 is not just a motorcycle it’s an experience. This was literally love at first sight for many enthusiasts. One such moment was when the bike was seen in Gurgaon, way before its official launch. A rider in his 60s was cruising on a black Honda Rebel 500. Initially mistaken for a Volgin S or Kawasaki Eliminator, it turned out to be the Rebel uncovered and elegant. That was the first clue that Honda had quietly launched something big.
The chance to ride it before launch gave an early glimpse into what this machine offers. Smooth power delivery, confident posture, and a true cruiser feel it isn’t about speed alone, it’s about character. Despite some saying the Rebel 500 is overpriced especially when bikes like the Shotgun 650 exist there’s more to it. Motorcycling is also about lifestyle, and this machine delivers that stylish, muscular cruiser aura seen in Hollywood blockbusters.
Honda Rebel 500 Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 471cc Parallel-Twin |
| Power | 45.5 BHP |
| Torque | 43.3 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Approx. 11 Liters |
| Type | Mid-weight Cruiser |
The performance of the Rebel 500 is more than enough for Indian roads. It blends thrill, comfort, and everyday practicality. It may not win drag races, but it wins hearts.
Kawasaki Versys X300: Hidden Adventure Champion
Another overlooked gem is the Kawasaki Versys X300. Often criticized for being expensive, especially when the KTM 390 Adventure exists, many fail to realize the engineering difference. The KTM may have a peppy single-cylinder, but the Versys X300 brings a refined dual-cylinder engine, the same one found in the Ninja 300 a bike that was itself massively underrated.
Riders who have experienced both can attest that parallel-twin engines behave differently. Smoother acceleration, more linear powerband, and unmatched highway cruising character. The Versys X300 may not boast wild numbers, but it delivers real-world satisfaction.
Kawasaki Versys X300 Technical Overview
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 296cc Parallel-Twin |
| Power | 40 PS |
| Torque | 26 Nm |
| Seat Height | 815mm |
| Ground Clearance | 180mm |
| Kerb Weight | 179 kg |
Riders with height ranging from 5’6″ to 5’7″ will find this bike comfortable, unlike some KTM models that demand taller stature. With the right aftermarket exhaust, the sound of a twin-cylinder engine becomes a melody. Underrated? Definitely. Worth it? Without a doubt.
Upcoming Motorcycles That Will Redefine the Market
While the present is exciting, the future looks even brighter. Some major players are about to shake things up with their upcoming launches, especially Royal Enfield, TVS, and even BMW. These brands are ready to drop machines that blend performance, technology, and aggressive styling.
Royal Enfield: EV, Twins, and Touring Monsters
Royal Enfield has been silently preparing its next big moves. After spotting the Flying Flea EV and Himalayan EV prototypes, expectations have gone through the roof. The Flying Flea is set to be a lifestyle product — meant more for presence than practicality. Expected range is around 200-250 km, which is decent, but what really excites enthusiasts is the Himalayan EV.
Electric torque is a different beast, and when combined with off-road capabilities, it can turn a trail ride into a rocket ride. The Himalayan EV is expected to deliver over 100 Nm of torque, with an output close to 45 BHP. In terms of adventure, it could set a new benchmark for electric two-wheelers.
But Royal Enfield isn’t stopping there. A 750cc twin-cylinder Himalayan is also in development. Considering how well the 450cc version has performed — challenging even the BMW 310 GS and Duke 390 — a 750cc Himalayan with around 55 BHP could dominate the entire segment.
TVS: Ready to Take on Aprilia and KTM
TVS isn’t lagging behind. The Apache RR 310 is already one of the most beautifully designed bikes in its segment. But the game-changer might be the new dual-sport 300cc ADV based on the same engine. Expected to produce 35-38 BHP, this bike will cater to off-road lovers who want a stylish yet practical machine.
The bigger surprise is the 450cc dual-cylinder engine that TVS has developed. This powertrain will power the upcoming Apache RR 450 and a potential BMW F450, marking TVS’s bold entry into serious performance territory. With expected figures of 55 BHP and 40 Nm torque, this engine might just rival the Aprilia 457 and KTM RC 390 if priced right.
However, one concern remains — TVS service quality, especially for the RR 310, has been inconsistent in some regions. If they fix that, their upcoming machines can truly dominate.
BMW: Playing a Safe Yet Strong Game
BMW’s upcoming F450, expected to use the same engine co-developed with TVS, could be a game-changer if priced right. Past experiences with the 310 GS showed that premium pricing doesn’t always guarantee success. If the F450 comes at a reasonable price with around 45 BHP and 42 Nm, it might be a sweet spot for BMW fans looking for performance with German engineering.
But if it suffers from the same issues as the 310 GS low features, high price it may once again struggle to impress.
Conclusion: Which Bike Are You Most Excited For?
So here we are witnessing a revolution in the Indian two-wheeler market. Underrated machines like the Honda Rebel 500 and Versys X300 are already available for those who recognize value beyond hype. At the same time, upcoming bikes from Royal Enfield, TVS, and BMW are about to push the boundaries of performance, design, and technology.
If you ask me personally, I’m most excited about the bikes based on the new 450cc twin-cylinder engine. These could change the landscape of mid-segment performance biking in India. But what about you? Which bike are you waiting for?
