Indian motorcycle market has seen a shift towards accessibility and comfort in recent years. Riders are prioritizing practical features over pure performance numbers and seat height has become a key factor in buying decisions. Low seat height motorcycles offer better control, more confidence during traffic stops and better maneuverability in urban jungle.
Demand for comfortable and accessible motorcycles has forced manufacturers to develop models that cater to riders who value ease of handling. These bikes have seat height ranging from 730mm to 800mm making them suitable for a wider range of riders while maintaining performance.
Top Low Seat Height Motorcycles in India
Bajaj Avenger Street 160 – 737mm
Leading the pack is the Bajaj Avenger Street 160, an entry level cruiser with impressive accessibility. The motorcycle has seen huge sales due to its ultra low seat height of just 737mm. This makes it very appealing to new riders and those coming from smaller displacement bikes.
Avenger Street 160 is powered by 160cc single cylinder, air cooled engine that delivers decent performance for city riding and occasional highway trips. Relaxed riding posture and forward set footpegs make it comfortable for long rides.
Price: Rs 1.12 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Honda CB Shine – 748mm
Honda CB Shine is one of the most trusted commuter motorcycles in India and has a relatively low seat height of 748mm. The motorcycle has been performing well in monthly sales charts, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities where practicality takes precedence over style.
Powered by a refined 124cc engine, CB Shine delivers excellent fuel efficiency and reliable performance. Build quality and after sales service network is a big contributor to its popularity among daily commuters.
Price: Rs 78,500 (ex-showroom, Delhi)
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V – 800mm
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is the sportier end of the accessible motorcycle spectrum. With a seat height of 800mm it strikes a balance between aggressive styling and rider friendly ergonomics. The motorcycle has gained popularity among younger riders who want performance without compromising on comfort.159.7cc oil cooled engine with advanced valve technology. Good handling and build quality.
Price: Rs 1.25 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Hero Glamour – 795mm
Hero Glamour is still a hot favourite in 125cc segment with a seat height of 795mm that fits most riders. It has maintained steady sales across various Indian markets, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.
Equipped with 124.7cc air-cooled engine, Glamour focuses on fuel efficiency and reliability rather than performance. Simple maintenance and wide service network makes it a practical choice for riders.
Price: Rs 85,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Specifications Comparison Table
| Model | Engine | Power | Torque | Seat Height | Price (Ex-showroom, Delhi) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bajaj Avenger Street 160 | 160cc, Air-cooled | 15 bhp | 13.5 Nm | 737mm | Rs 1.12 lakh |
| Honda CB Shine | 124cc, Air-cooled | 11 bhp | 11 Nm | 748mm | Rs 78,500 |
| TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | 159.7cc, Oil-cooled | 17.6 bhp | 14.8 Nm | 800mm | Rs 1.25 lakh |
| Hero Glamour | 124.7cc, Air-cooled | 11 bhp | 10.6 Nm | 795mm | Rs 85,000 |
Market Performance and Consumer Preference
The low seat height motorcycle segment has seen growth in recent times with manufacturers focusing on ergonomics along with traditional performance parameters. As per consumer surveys 68% of riders consider seat height as a primary factor when buying their first bike and 45% of experienced riders prioritize comfort over power delivery.
Urban traffic conditions have played a major role in this trend as riders spend most of their time in stop and go situations where confidence and control becomes more important than top speed. Being able to put both feet flat on the ground during traffic stops reduces rider fatigue and improves overall riding confidence.
Read more : Royal Enfield Classic 350 Shibusa Is the Ultimate Custom Bobber Build
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is considered low seat height for motorcycles in India?
A: Generally motorcycles with seat height below 800mm are considered low seat height bikes in India. The most accessible models have seat height between 730mm to 780mm.
Q: Do low seat height bikes compromise on performance?
A: Not necessarily. Modern low seat height motorcycles have optimized chassis design and engine positioning to maintain performance while reducing seat height. Many offer enough power for daily commuting and occasional touring.
Q: Are low seat height bikes suitable for tall riders?
A: While designed for average height riders, many tall riders find low seat height bikes comfortable due to their relaxed ergonomics and spacious riding position. However comfort varies from person to person based on leg length and riding style.
Q: Which low seat height bike gives best fuel efficiency?
A: Honda CB Shine gives the best fuel efficiency in this segment, averaging around 65-70 kmpl in normal riding conditions, followed closely by Hero Glamour.
Q: Do these bikes require special maintenance due to their design?
A: No, low seat height motorcycles follow standard maintenance schedule and procedure. Their simpler engine design results in lower maintenance cost compared to more complex performance oriented bikes.
The trend towards accessible and comfortable motorcycles is a reflection of Indian riders who are prioritizing practicality over traditional performance parameters. As urban mobility challenges continue to grow low seat height motorcycles will play a bigger role in Indian two wheeler market.
One Response