Performance always comes at a price, which could vary based on the manufacturer. But in the last decade, performance bikes have become more accessible and affordable. With the recent GST 2.0 implementation prices of bikes below 350cc have dropped significantly and some of the models listed here have benefitted from it. Here's a list of the most powerful motorcycles priced under Rs 2.50 lakh.
All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi.
7. Hero Xtreme 250R
30hp
Rs 1.66 lakh
The Xtreme 250R marks Hero's first plunge into the quarter-litre segment. is equipped with a 249cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces 30hp and 25Nm, making it the most powerful Hero motorcycle on sale. However, it's quite the opposite on this list as the Xtreme 250R is the least powerful here and is also down by 1hp, in comparison to its chief-rival– the KTM 250 Duke. Although priced at Rs 1.66 lakh, its the most-affordable bike on this list.
6. KTM 250 Duke
31hp
Rs 2.12 lakh
The quarter-litre Duke is not only a capable performer but also an excellent handler. Boasting high-quality materials and features, the 250 Duke makes for a compelling proposition. It is powered by a 249cc single-cylinder motor that produces 31hp at 9,250 rpm and 25Nm of torque at 7,250rpm. The Gen-3 250 Duke also has revised ergonomics, an aluminium swingarm, a quickshifter and a TFT display, all of which work in tandem to make this one of the nicest 250cc motorcycles money can buy. The 250 Duke is priced at Rs 2.12 lakh after the recent GST rate revision.
Also see: 2024 KTM 250 Duke review: 31hp never felt this good
5. Triumph Speed T4
31hp
Rs 1.93 lakh
The Speed T4 largely gets the same 399cc engine as the Speed 400, however it gets some extensive internal rework. Key changes include a smaller throttle body, revised camshafts, a redesigned airbox, and a 31 percent increase in crank inertia– resulting in a lower power output of 31hp and 36Nm of torque. Starting at Rs 1.93 lakh, It is the most affordable Triumph you can buy today. To acheive this price tag, the T4 forgoes a few electronic features and one hardware component– such as ride-by-wire, traction control, immobiliser and the golden upside-down fork. Recently, the T4 also got an update to its paint-scheme with new colours and a brushed aluminium finish for its exhaust as compared to the earlier black powder coating. Despite the fact that the Speed T4 sit above the 350cc category that attracts heavier taxes, Bajaj has decided to absorb the hit and on-top-of-that they have given an additional discount of Rs 6,000, resulting in this aggressive pricing.
4. TVS Apache RTR 310
35.6hp
Rs 2.21 – 2.86 lakh
The Apache RTR 310 is the naked counterpart to the Apache RR 310. The RTR 310 is equipped with a 312cc single-cylinder motor that produces 35.6hp at 9,700rpm and 28.7Nm at 6,650rpm. What also helps is that the Apache RTR 310 is a feature-loaded package brimming with electronic wizardry and safety nets. You can choose from three variants priced between Rs 2.21 lakh and Rs 2.86 lakh.
Also see: TVS Apache RTR 310 review: the heart of the matter
3. Bajaj Dominar 400
40hp
Rs 1.77 lakh
The Dominar 400 is a mile-muncher with a proven powerhouse borrowed from the KTM 390 Duke. Its 373cc single-cylinder engine produces 40hp at 8,800rpm and 35Nm at 6,500rpm. The only thing holding back the Dominar 400 is its weight. At 192kg, it is the heaviest motorcycle on this list. The Dominar 400 is available for Rs 1.77 lakh.
Also see: 2021 Bajaj Dominar 400 review, first ride
2. Triumph Speed 400
40hp
Rs 2.46 lakh
The baby Triumph is powered by a 398cc motor that produces 40hp at 8,000rpm and 37.5Nm at 6,500rpm. Much like its more affordable sibling — the T4 — the Speed 400 too attracts higher taxes but with Bajaj absorbing the hike and festive discounts, its price has dropped significantly from its earlier Rs 2.46 lakh mark. At Rs 2.34 lakh, the Triumph is quite a value purchase and gives you access to a premium badge at a digestible price tag.
1. Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z
43hp
Rs 1.93 lakh
The Pulsar NS400Z is the most powerful bike in Bajaj’s Pulsar range and also on this list. For starters, it has the same engine and frame as the Dominar 400 but is 18kg lighter. Weighing 174kg, the NS400Z has a clear advantage in terms of performance and gets the benefit of electronic aids such as traction control and riding modes that work in tandem with the ABS. The Pulsar NS400Z also offers the most value, with a price tag of Rs 1.93 lakh. With a recent comprehensive update, the power has increased from 40hp to 43hp in sport mode, there's also a bi-directional quickshifter enabled via software wizardry and better tyres with sintered brake pads.
Also see: 2025 Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z review: More power, more grip
Also read: Harley X440 vs Triumph Speed 400 vs RE Classic 350 comparison: Battle Royale
