Second hand Bike: How To Find the Perfect Model, Mileage & Price Guide
Buying a Second hand Bike is one of the smartest ways to enjoy two-wheeler freedom without spending the high cost of a new motorcycle. With fuel prices rising and new bike prices going up, many riders across India are turning towards pre-owned options.
A carefully chosen used bike can give you reliable mileage, strong performance, and a price that fits your budget. This detailed guide explores the top models, real-world mileage, price ranges, and smart buying tips to help you pick the right ride.
Why Buy a Second hand Bike?
- Affordable Cost – Save 40-70% compared to brand new bikes.
- Lower Depreciation – First owners take the biggest loss; you benefit.
- Better Choices Within Budget – Get higher cc models or feature-rich bikes for less.
- Eco-Friendly – Extends the life of a vehicle, reducing production demand.
Things to Check Before You Buy
- Mileage & fuel efficiency
- Engine health & maintenance history
- Service records & spare part availability
- Legal documents – RC, insurance, PUC, loan clearance
- Frame alignment, accident history
- Price compared to market rates
Popular Second hand Bike Models in India
| Year Range | Engine / Class | Why Good in Second hand Market | Typical Real-World Mileage* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010-2013 | 100-110cc commuter (early Splendor, Passion, Discover, Platina) | Cheap maintenance, easy parts, excellent resale | 50-65 kmpl (city), 65-75 kmpl (highway) |
| 125cc commuter (early Shine, Stunner, Super Splendor) | Smooth, reliable, decent comfort | 50-60 kmpl city, 60-65 highway | |
| 150cc sporty commuter (Pulsar 150, Apache RTR old gen) | Affordable, widely available, balanced power | 40-50 city, 50-55 highway | |
| 350cc cruiser (Classic 350, Bullet old gen) | Iconic look, high torque, but heavier | 28-35 city, 35-40 highway | |
| 2014-2016 | 100-110cc commuter (Splendor+, HF Deluxe, Platina Comfortec) | Improved engines, better fuel-saving tech | 55-70 city, up to 75 highway |
| 125cc commuter (Shine, Glamour, Discover 125) | Strong build, reliable resale | 50-65 city, 60-70 highway | |
| 150-160cc sporty commuter (Apache RTR 160, Pulsar 150 ABS intro) | Better braking, stylish updates | 42-50 city, 50-55 highway | |
| 350cc cruiser (Classic / Thunderbird) | More refined than older gen, solid resale | 30-37 city, 35-42 highway | |
| 2017-2019 | 100-110cc commuter (Splendor iSmart, Platina ES) | BS-IV compliance, very fuel efficient | 55-75 depending on riding |
| 125cc commuter (SP125 early, Shine, Glamour) | Fuel injection introduced, smooth ride | 55-68 mixed | |
| 150-160cc sporty commuter (Apache RTR 160V2, NS160) | Sportier looks, good for city+highway | 45-55 mixed | |
| 350cc cruiser (RE Classic, Thunderbird X) | Stylish, updated finish, resale strong | 30-38 city, 35-43 highway | |
| 2020-2022 | 100-110cc commuter (Splendor+, HF 100, Platina BS-VI) | BS-VI compliant, strong mileage | 60-75 mixed |
| 125cc commuter (Raider 125, SP 125 FI) | Digital meters, FI standard, stylish | 55-70 mixed | |
| 150-160cc sporty commuter (Apache RTR 160 4V, Pulsar 150 new gen) | ABS standard, modern tech | 45-55 mixed | |
| 350cc cruiser (RE Meteor 350) | New platform, smoother engine | 32-40 mixed | |
| 2023-2025 | 100-110cc commuter (Splendor XTEC, Platina 110 latest) | Bluetooth, LED features, high efficiency | 60-75 mixed |
| 125cc commuter (Xtreme 125R, Raider new gen, SP125 latest) | Sporty design, modern features | 55-70 mixed | |
| 150-160cc sporty commuter (Pulsar N160, Apache RTR latest) | Dual-channel ABS, aggressive looks | 45-55 mixed | |
| 350cc cruiser (RE Hunter 350, Classic 350 new gen) | Retro look with refined engines | 32-42 mixed |
Price Ranges You Can Expect
- Under ₹50,000 – Entry-level commuters like Hero HF Deluxe
- ₹50,000 – ₹80,000 – Splendor Plus, Shine, Raider 125
- ₹80,000 – ₹1,20,000 – Sporty 125cc, Pulsar 150
- Above ₹1,20,000 – Premium commuters, Royal Enfield, near-new bikes
Where to Find a Good Deal
- Online platforms: OLX, BikeDekho, Droom, BikeWale
- Certified dealers offering warranty
- Direct owners through communities/forums
Tips for Buying a Second hand Bike
- Always test ride before purchase
- Negotiate based on tyre, brake, chain, and battery condition
- Avoid bikes with accident or frame damage
- Verify engine and chassis numbers on RC
- Check resale value and parts availability
Realistic Mileage Expectations
Mileage is the most important factor for many second hand bike buyers, but it’s also the most misunderstood. Manufacturers often claim high numbers under perfect test conditions, while real-world usage tells a different story.
Here’s what you can expect:
- 100–110cc Segment:
- Manufacturer claim: 65–75 kmpl
- Real usage: 50–65 kmpl depending on traffic and riding habits
- Best for: Daily commuters, short-distance riders
- 125cc Segment:
- Manufacturer claim: 60–70 kmpl
- Real usage: 50–65 kmpl in cities, slightly higher on highways
- Best for: Riders needing balance of economy and comfort
- 150–160cc Segment:
- Manufacturer claim: 50–60 kmpl
- Real usage: 40–55 kmpl
- Best for: Those who want power with moderate fuel efficiency
- 200cc and above:
- Manufacturer claim: 35–45 kmpl
- Real usage: 25–40 kmpl
- Best for: Enthusiasts, touring, performance riding
Key Factors Affecting Mileage:
- Road type (city vs highway)
- Rider’s weight & style (aggressive riding reduces mileage)
- Tyre pressure & maintenance
- Age of engine & condition of chain, clutch, and carburetor/fuel-injection
- Fuel quality (higher octane sometimes helps newer models)
With proper care—regular servicing, correct tyre pressure, gentle acceleration—a second hand bike can deliver close to its claimed mileage even after years of use.
Final Thoughts
A Second hand Bike can be your ideal partner for daily commuting, leisure rides, or budget-friendly travel. Choose a model that suits your riding style, inspect it carefully, and secure all the documents before making payment. With the right approach, you’ll enjoy years of reliable performance at a fraction of the cost of a new motorcycle.