Why 150cc to 350cc Motorcycle Sales Are Rising in India
Why Indian Riders Are Upgrading to 150cc and 350cc Motorcycles
The motorcycle market in India is going through a clear shift. For many years, most buyers focused mainly on fuel efficiency and low purchase cost. Mileage was the top priority because motorcycles were seen as basic daily transport. Today, buying behaviour is changing. A growing number of riders are choosing motorcycles with larger engines, stronger performance and better styling. Recent industry data shows that motorcycles above 125cc are gaining a higher share of total sales across the country.
Growing Demand for 150cc to 350cc Motorcycles
Over the last ten months, motorcycles with engines larger than 125cc accounted for around 26 percent of total sales. This is the highest share recorded in more than five years. The numbers indicate that Indian buyers are slowly moving beyond entry-level commuter bikes and upgrading to more powerful machines.
The middleweight segment, which includes motorcycles between 150cc and 350cc, is showing strong growth. Last year, this category made up about 23 percent of total motorcycle sales. Now it is close to 25 percent. This increase reflects rising demand for motorcycles that offer better highway performance, stronger acceleration and improved road presence.
For many riders, a motorcycle is no longer just a daily commuting tool. It has become a lifestyle product that reflects personality, brand preference and riding aspirations.
Why Buyers Are Moving Toward Bigger Bikes
Several factors are driving this shift toward higher engine capacity motorcycles. One important reason is improved affordability. Recent changes in tax structure reduced the GST rate on motorcycles up to 350cc, lowering overall prices for many popular models. This has made mid-range motorcycles more accessible to a larger group of buyers.
At the same time, banks and non-banking finance companies are offering attractive loan schemes with lower down payments and flexible EMI options. Financing has made it easier for young professionals and first-time buyers to move from 100cc or 125cc motorcycles to 200cc or 350cc models.
Another key factor is rising income levels in urban and semi-urban areas. As disposable income increases, buyers are willing to spend more on better design, improved performance and premium brand value.
Brand Performance in the Higher CC Segment
The shift toward bigger motorcycles is also reshaping competition among manufacturers. Royal Enfield has strengthened its position in the mid-size motorcycle segment. Its market share has grown steadily over the past few years, driven by strong demand for classic-styled 350cc models. Buyers are attracted to the brand’s heritage design, solid build quality and highway touring comfort.
TVS Motor Company has also increased its presence in the 150cc to 300cc category by launching new performance-oriented models that appeal to younger riders. The focus on technology, styling and ride modes has helped the brand gain market share.
Meanwhile, Bajaj Auto has faced stronger competition in this category, resulting in some decline in its overall share. The competition in the performance motorcycle segment is now more intense than before, with brands focusing on differentiation through features and pricing.
Changing Buyer Mindset in India
The Indian motorcycle buyer of today is different from a decade ago. Earlier, fuel efficiency and low maintenance cost were the primary decision factors. Now, buyers also consider engine performance, design appeal, brand reputation and long-term ownership experience.
Many riders use their motorcycles not only for daily commuting but also for weekend rides, short tours and social gatherings. This lifestyle shift has increased demand for motorcycles that offer comfort, stability at higher speeds and a stronger visual presence on the road.
Even though entry-level commuter bikes still account for around 73 percent of total sales, the gradual increase in higher CC motorcycles shows a long-term structural change in the market.
What to Expect in the Coming Years
If economic conditions remain stable and financing options stay accessible, the demand for 150cc to 350cc motorcycles is likely to continue growing. Manufacturers are already expanding their product line-ups in the mid-size segment, introducing new models with improved safety features, digital instrument clusters and better engine refinement.
For Indian riders, this trend means more choices in the performance motorcycle segment at competitive price points. The market is no longer driven only by mileage figures. Buyers are now looking for a balance between efficiency, performance and lifestyle value.
The rise in higher CC motorcycle sales reflects a maturing two-wheeler market in India, where consumer expectations are evolving beyond basic transportation toward aspirational ownership.
Hari Babu
I'm Hari Babu, a freelance automotive journalist with over three years of experience. I cover stories from national highways to rural roads and currently serve as Chief Editor of Gaadi Journal News Network.
