Overview of the Indian Motorcycle Market in January 2026
Top 10 Motorcycles Jan 2026: Hero Splendor Leads as Market Grows by 20%
Image: Top 10 Motorcycles Jan 2026: Hero Splendor Leads as Market Grows by 20% – Performance and Specifications
The Indian two-wheeler industry has kicked off the year 2026 on an incredibly high note. According to the latest sales data for January 2026, the motorcycle segment witnessed a robust healthy growth, with the top 10 best-selling models collectively accounting for 9,02,096 units. This represents a significant 20.27% year-on-year increase compared to the same period in 2025.
This surge is largely attributed to a steady recovery in rural demand and a growing preference for feature-rich commuters in urban areas. Brands like Hero MotoCorp, Honda, and Bajaj continue to dominate the charts, though the competition in the 125cc and 160cc segments is fiercer than ever. Below, we dive into the details of the motorcycles that defined the market this January.
The Leaderboard: Top 10 Best-Selling Motorcycles (Jan 2026)
The sales chart reveals a mix of legendary commuters and modern performance bikes. While the budget-friendly 100cc segment still holds the lion’s share, there is a clear shift toward the 125cc segment, which now offers a perfect balance of fuel efficiency and premium features.
| Rank | Motorcycle Model | Units Sold (Jan 2026) | YoY Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hero Splendor | 3,24,019 | +24.90% |
| 2 | Honda Shine | 1,61,224 | -4.20% |
| 3 | Bajaj Pulsar | 1,29,600 | +24.52% |
| 4 | Hero HF Deluxe | 71,690 | +15.21% |
| 5 | TVS Apache | 51,191 | Positive |
| 6 | TVS XL (Moped/Bike) | 48,607 | Steady |
| 7 | TVS Raider | 36,069 | Rising |
| 8 | Honda Unicorn 160 | 35,710 | Strong |
| 9 | RE Classic 350 | 34,981 | Steady |
| 10 | Bajaj Platina | 33,520 | Positive |
1. Hero Splendor: The Undisputed King
Maintaining its position at the top, the Hero Splendor series sold over 3.24 lakh units. Its reliability, massive service network, and high resale value make it the go-to choice for millions. For 2026, the Splendor Plus XTEC 2.0 has introduced more connected features, keeping it relevant for younger buyers while maintaining an impressive mileage of 70-80 kmpl.
2. Honda Shine: The 125cc Powerhouse
The Honda Shine remains the second favorite, despite a marginal 4.2% dip in YoY sales. Its 123.94cc engine is widely regarded as the most refined in its class. In early 2026, Honda launched the Limited Edition Shine 125 featuring new graphics and Pyrite Brown alloy wheels to stimulate demand.
3. Bajaj Pulsar: The Sporty Commuter
The Bajaj Pulsar range saw a massive 24.52% jump in sales. With variants ranging from the entry-level Pulsar 125 to the flagship NS400Z, Bajaj offers something for everyone. The brand recently updated the Pulsar 125 with LED headlamps and Bluetooth connectivity to better compete with the TVS Raider.
4. Hero HF Deluxe: Value for Money
Coming in at number four, the HF Deluxe continues to be a favorite in the rural sector. It is one of the most affordable bikes in the top 10, offering simple mechanics and low maintenance costs that appeal to budget-conscious riders.
5. TVS Raider & Apache: The Youth Choice
TVS has successfully captured the younger demographic with the Raider 125 and the Apache series. The Raider, with its TFT console and riding modes, has become a benchmark for what a 125cc bike can offer. Meanwhile, the Apache RTR 160 4V remains a performance leader in the sub-200cc segment.
Technical Comparison of the Top 3 Models
If you are looking to buy a new bike in 2026, comparing the specs of the top three is a great place to start. Each offers a distinct riding experience tailored to different needs.
| Feature | Hero Splendor Plus | Honda Shine 125 | Bajaj Pulsar 125 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 97.2 cc | 123.94 cc | 124.4 cc |
| Power | 8.02 PS | 10.74 PS | 11.8 PS |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 80.6 kmpl | 65 kmpl | 51 kmpl |
| Starting Price | ₹73,902 | ₹80,852 | ₹81,438 |
Key Market Trends Observed in January 2026
Several factors have contributed to this 20% sales growth at the start of the year. One major trend is the integration of Bluetooth Connectivity and Digital Displays even in budget commuters. Bikes that were once simple mechanical tools are now tech-gadgets on wheels.
Shift to Premium 125cc Bikes
The 125cc segment is rapidly eating into the 100cc market. Buyers are willing to spend slightly more for better power and features found in the Honda Shine or TVS Raider. This “premiumization” is a healthy sign for the industry.
Enhanced Safety Standards
With stricter safety norms, most bikes in the top 10 now come with Integrated Braking Systems (IBS) or Single-channel ABS as standard, making Indian roads safer for the average commuter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which was the best-selling motorcycle in January 2026?
The Hero Splendor was the best-selling motorcycle in January 2026, with a total of 3,24,019 units sold.
2. How much did the overall motorcycle market grow compared to last year?
The top 10 motorcycles saw a combined year-on-year growth of 20.27% compared to January 2025.
3. What is the price of the 2026 Hero Splendor Plus?
The ex-showroom price for the 2026 Hero Splendor Plus starts at approximately ₹73,902 for the base variant.
4. Why is the Honda Shine sales showing a slight decline?
While still popular, the Shine saw a 4.2% dip likely due to increased competition from the TVS Raider and newer 125cc variants from Bajaj.
5. Does the Bajaj Pulsar 125 have Bluetooth connectivity in 2026?
Yes, the updated 2026 variants of the Pulsar 125 now feature a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth support.
6. What is the mileage of the TVS Raider 125?
The TVS Raider 125 offers an ARAI-claimed mileage of approximately 65-71 kmpl, depending on the riding mode used.
7. Is the Honda Unicorn still available in 2026?
Yes, the Honda Unicorn 160 remains a strong seller, ranking 8th in January 2026 with 35,710 units sold.
8. What engine is used in the Hero HF Deluxe?
The HF Deluxe uses the legendary 97.2 cc air-cooled engine, known for its extreme fuel efficiency and longevity.
9. Are there any price hikes expected for motorcycles in early 2026?
Yes, several manufacturers like Bajaj and Hero announced minor price hikes ranging from ₹500 to ₹1,500 in January 2026 due to rising production costs.
10. Which bike is best for long-distance commuting in this list?
The Honda Unicorn 160 and Royal Enfield Classic 350 are considered the best for comfort during long-distance daily commutes thanks to their stable handling and relaxed seating posture.
