The Ultimate Used Bike Buying Guide: Comparing 2018-2021 vs. 2021-2024 Models for Indian Roads

In India, a two-wheeler is more than just a vehicle; it is a lifeline.

From the bustling streets of Delhi to the winding roads of Kerala, motorcycles are the backbone of daily commute. With the prices of new bikes skyrocketing—thanks to stricter emission norms and rising input costs—the second-hand market has become a goldmine for smart buyers. You can find a reliable machine for half the price of a new one, if you know what to look for.

The image above poses a critical question that haunts every used bike buyer: “Purani bike dekhne ja rahe hain? Pehle ye 2 baatein jaan le” (Going to see an old bike? Know these 2 things first). It further asks to understand which model’s ride quality withstands the test of time better.

This guide analyzes the market based on the two distinct eras highlighted in the creative: the late BS4 era (2018–2021) and the modern BS6 era (2021–2024). Whether you are eyeing a rugged commuter like the TVS Star City+ (shown on the left) or a refined street fighter like the Yamaha FZ (shown on the right), this breakdown will help you make the right choice.

Thing #1: Ride Quality and Engine Refinement (The Age Factor)

The biggest fear with a used bike is that it will feel “old”—vibrating handlebars, clunky gear shifts, and a suspension that crashes through potholes. How do the two eras compare?

The 2018–2021 Models (BS4 Era)

These bikes represent the peak of the carburetor era.

  • The Ride Feel: Engines from this period (like the Honda Shine, TVS Star City+, or Hero Splendor) have a “punchy” throttle response. Because they use simple carburetors, the power delivery feels instant and raw.
  • Aging: Over time, carburetor tuning drifts. This leads to increased vibrations at the handlebar and footpegs. The suspension on these older models is often softer, which is great for comfort initially but tends to become “bouncy” after 25,000+ km as the fork oil degrades.
  • Verdict: Good ride quality if maintained, but likely to feel rougher and noisier as they age.

The 2021–2024 Models (BS6 Era)

This era marked the mandatory shift to Fuel Injection (FI).

  • The Ride Feel: The Yamaha FZ V3 shown in the image is a prime example. FI engines are significantly smoother. The computer (ECU) controls the fuel, ensuring the engine runs optimally whether it’s a cold winter morning or a hot summer afternoon.
  • Aging: These bikes age gracefully. The engine smoothness remains consistent for years because there is no carburetor to get clogged or go out of tune. The chassis stiffness on newer bikes (like the FZ V3 or TVS Raider) is also superior, offering better stability at high speeds.
  • Verdict: Superior ride quality that stays “like new” for longer, provided the sensors are working.

Thing #2: Maintenance and Repair (The Wallet Factor)

The second critical point to know is what happens after you buy the bike.

2018–2021: The Mechanic’s Friend

  • Simplicity: The TVS Star City+ in the image is a mechanic’s dream. No complex sensors, no fuel pumps, no ECU. If it breaks down in a village, a local mechanic can fix it with basic tools.
  • Cost: Spare parts are cheap. A carburetor cleaning costs ₹200. A cable replacement is ₹150.
  • The Risk: These bikes are older. You will likely need to replace “consumables” immediately upon purchase: chain set, tires, and battery.

2021–2024: The High-Tech Gamble

  • Complexity: The newer Yamaha FZ and its peers are computer-controlled. If the “Check Engine” light comes on, you must go to an authorized service center with an OBD scanner.
  • Cost: Repairs are expensive. A failed fuel pump (a common issue in early BS6 bikes) can cost ₹3,000–₹5,000. An ABS sensor failure can cost ₹1,500.
  • The Benefit: Higher fuel efficiency (mileage) and better safety features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Side-Stand Cutoff sensors are standard.

Buying Guide: Comparison by Buyer Profile

To help you decide, click on the category that matches your needs (as suggested by the yellow buttons in the image).

Category A: The “Budget Commuter” (2018–2021 Models)

  • Best For: Delivery executives, college students on a tight budget, and daily office commuters who ride <30 km/day.
  • Top Picks: TVS Star City+, Hero Splendor iSmart, Honda Activa 5G, Bajaj Pulsar 150 (BS4).
  • Price Range: ₹30,000 – ₹55,000.
  • Inspection Tip: Check the Cold Start. If the bike struggles to start in the morning or emits black smoke, the carburetor or piston rings are worn out. Check the fuel tank for rust, especially near the lid.

Category B: The “Modern Rider” (2021–2024 Models)

  • Best For: Highway riders, tech enthusiasts, and those who prioritize safety and resale value.
  • Top Picks: Yamaha FZ V3/V4, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Suzuki Access 125 (BS6), Royal Enfield Classic 350 Reborn.
  • Price Range: ₹65,000 – ₹1,10,000.
  • Inspection Tip: Check the Instrument Cluster. Ensure no warning lights (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) are glowing while the engine is running. Listen for a high-pitched “whine” from the tank when you turn the key—that’s the fuel pump working. If it sounds erratic, walk away.

The Ultimate Inspection Checklist

Regardless of the year, never hand over cash without checking these three non-negotiables:

  1. The Smoke Test:
    • Ask the owner to put the bike on the main stand and rev the engine hard.
    • White Smoke: Engine oil is burning (Piston/Ring failure). Reject the bike.
    • Black Smoke: Fuel mixture issue. Negotiable/Fixable.
  2. The Chain & Sprocket:
    • Look at the teeth on the rear wheel sprocket. If they look sharp and pointed (like ninja stars), the set is worn out. They should be blunt and curved. A new set costs ₹1,500+.
  3. Documents (The Legal Shield):
    • RC: Match the Chassis Number on the bike’s neck with the RC card.
    • Hypothecation: If the RC says “Hypothecated to [Bank Name],” ask for the Bank NOC. Without it, you cannot transfer ownership.
    • Insurance: Third-party insurance is mandatory. If expired, deduct ₹1,500 from the price.

Conclusion

So, which model’s ride quality is better? If you define quality by smoothness and refinement, the 2021–2024 (BS6) models win hands down. They are vibration-free, cleaner, and safer. If you define quality by ruggedness and ease of repair, the 2018–2021 (BS4) models are the undisputed kings of Indian roads.

For a hassle-free experience, we recommend a 2021 or 2022 model that has been single-owner driven. It sits in the sweet spot—depreciated enough to be affordable, but modern enough to be reliable. Happy riding!