150-200cc bikes see sales decline, TVS rules with 3,64,000 Apaches

India’s two-wheeler industry remains a key player in the automotive sector, with 16.56 million units (a 10.7 percent increase year-on-year) despatched by manufacturers in the first 10 months of FY2025. Motorcycles lead with 63 percent market share, followed by scooters at 35 percent; mopeds also showed some growth.

1. Motorcycles account for 63 percent of the sales
2. 100-110cc segment leads; 110-150cc growing fast
3. Shift to 200-300cc bikes leads to decline in 150-200cc segment

SIAM data shows that nearly all motorcycle sub-segments have experienced growth, except for the 150-200cc category. This analysis explores the reasons behind its struggles amidst the market's positive trends.

The 100-110cc segment leads with 4.83 million units sold, up 2 percent and capturing 46 percent of the market. The 110cc-125cc segment follows with 3.05 million units, which is a 15 percent growth with a 29 percent market share. The 125cc-150cc category grew 42 percent, selling 6,07,721 units. They accounted for 6 percent of the market.

However, the 150-200cc sub-segment – the third-largest in terms of volume – has faced a decline. With 9,32,332 units sold and a 9 percent market share, it’s down by 8 percent compared to last year, selling 78,658 fewer units between April 2024 and January 2025. This drop can largely be attributed to weaker performances from major players like Bajaj Auto, Honda, Hero MotoCorp and Suzuki.

TVS, Yamaha shine, Bajaj, Honda, Hero and Suzuki feel the heat

A closer look at the brand-wise performance in the 150-200cc bike market from April 2024 to January 2025 highlights key trends and reveals the struggle of slow-selling products.

TVS Motor Co

TVS Motor Co leads the 150-200cc segment with four Apache RTR offerings. With 3,64,050 units sold in the first 10 months of FY2025, the Apache accounts for 39 percent of the sub-segment, marking an 18 percent YoY increase. It surpasses the TVS Raider, which saw a 14 percent YoY decline with 3,40,699 units sold.

India Yamaha Motor

Yamaha has sold 2,00,185 motorcycles in the current fiscal, marking a 6 percent YoY increase and capturing a 21 percent share of the 150-200cc segment. The company offers two models: the MT-15 V2.0 and the YZF R15, and of the two, the MT-15 has seen a significant 50 percent YoY growth.

Bajaj Auto

Bajaj Auto has sold 1,88,754 units in the 150-200cc category over the past 10 months, reflecting an 18 percent decline compared to previous year’s 2,31,374 units. This translates to 42,620 fewer motorcycles sold. The company offers nine models in this segment, including six Pulsars, the Avenger 160 Street and two KTM 200s. While sales of the Pulsar range have dropped by about 20 percent, demand for KTM models has remained relatively stable.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI)

Honda Motorcycles India sold 1,34,778 units, which is a 36 percent year-on-year drop in sales within the 150-200cc category. The brand’s four models in this segment – Unicorn 160, SP160, Hornet 2.0, and CB200X (now NX200) – have been affected. However, the recent December 2024 update of the Unicorn 160, featuring an OBD2B-compliant engine and a TFT dash may help boost sales.

In contrast, the SP160 has seen strong demand, with sales nearly doubling. This model also benefits from OBD2B compliance and a TFT display like other recently updated Hondas. Additionally, both the Hornet 2.0 and the now NX200 are receiving positive attention, signalling a shift in consumer preference toward higher-powered motorcycles. Both the Hornet 2.0 and NX200 have recently received updates and this should help in boosting sales.

Hero MotoCorp

Hero MotoCorp ranks fifth in the 150-200cc segment, with 32,141 units sold, reflecting a 39 percent year-on-year decline. The company offers two models: the Xtreme 160R and the Xpulse 200 4V. Among these, the Xpulse 200 is seeing stronger demand, especially following its recent update.

Suzuki Motorcycle India

From April 2024 to January 2025, Suzuki Motorcycle India sold 11,761 units of the 155cc Gixxer and Gixxer SF, reflecting a 36 percent year-on-year decline.

India Kawasaki Motor

Kawasaki sold just 663 units of the 177cc W175 Street.

Are 150-200cc motorcycle buyers migrating?

The 150-200cc premium commuter segment, the third largest in the overall motorcycle market, faces pressure from both the 125-150cc category and the segments above it. The 125-150cc bikes have experienced a notable 42 percent growth, with a rise in market share from 4.41 percent to 6 percent, suggesting a shift towards more fuel-efficient options as buyers opt for affordability over performance.

However, the Union Budget’s promise of increased disposable income could shift this trend.
Meanwhile, the 200-250cc (up 17 percent to 1,10,297 units) and 250-350cc (up 3 percent to 7,03,475 units) segments have gained traction. This is probably down to buyers moving from the 150-200cc segment towards more premium, feature-rich options. This shift is aided by the narrowing price gap between these bikes and the high-spec 150-200cc models, attracting first-time buyers seeking a balance of style, performance and value.

Also see: Yamaha India EV platform under evaluation