Top 5 Safest And Affordable Bikes With ABS In India

Interestingly, Bajaj Platina 110 tops the list followed by other Bajaj siblings. 

• The list comprise of TVS and Hero-moniker bikes
• Bajaj has quite some safe ABS-equipped bikes in this segment.
• The most expensive bikes in the list are Pulsar’s 250 twins.

In response to the unpredictable traffic conditions on Indian roads, manufacturers have begun offering advanced safety features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) even on small-capacity bikes. Here is a list of the most affordable bikes with ABS that were launched in the current year.

  1. Bajaj Platina 110 - Rs 72,224 

Leading the list is Bajaj, with its most affordable ABS-equipped bike in India, the Platina 110. Priced at Rs 72,224, this 110cc bike is the only one in its segment to feature ABS. It also comes with some additional features compared to the drum variant.

   2. Bajaj Pulsar P150 - Rs 1,16,755

The Bajaj Pulsar P150, a recent addition to the Pulsar family, is the second most affordable bike with ABS launched this year. It not only features a powerful engine derived from the Pulsar N160 but also sports a completely new design and platform. According to our first ride experience, it offers a smooth and punchy ride.

With a price of Rs 1.17 lakh for the rear drum variant and Rs 1.20 lakh for the rear disc variant, the Pulsar P150 is only around Rs 5,500 more expensive than its predecessor, the last generation Pulsar 150. This price increase is reasonable considering the significant generational upgrade that the new model offers. However, it's worth noting that the rear disc variant of the P150 is only Rs 3,500 cheaper than the single-channel ABS version of the Pulsar 160, which provides better performance.

   3. TVS Apache RTR 160 2V - Rs 1,17,790

TVS introduced an updated version of the Apache RTR 160 2V this year, featuring slight cosmetic and feature upgrades. The original Apache already had ABS, and the updated version remains practical and relevant for modern riders.

The TVS Apache RTR 160 2V, despite being a decade old, continues to be an appealing motorcycle. It offers impressive performance and features that can attract both young and experienced riders. However, with a starting price of Rs 1,17,790, it doesn't have a significant advantage over the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, which not only delivers more performance but also boasts a modern appearance. Additionally, the 4-valve configuration of the 4V model offers better refinement and efficiency.

   4. Hero Xtreme 160R - Rs 1,18,616

Hero refreshed the Xtreme 160R in 2022, making it one of the most accessible ABS-equipped bikes. Along with ABS, the 163cc streetfighter now comes with a new grab rail and a gear position indicator on its negatively lit LCD instrument cluster as standard.

The Hero Xtreme 160R stands out both on paper and in real-world performance. With a starting price of Rs 1,18,616, it offers excellent value as one of the most affordable 160cc bikes in the market. Its attractive design, feature-packed nature, torquey engine, and impressive riding and handling capabilities make it a compelling option.

In terms of sportiness, the Hero Xtreme 160R easily outshines competitors like the Suzuki Gixxer and the Yamaha FZ-FI. However, it faces strong competition from the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, which presents a formidable challenge. To determine the better option between these two motorcycles, a detailed comparison review would be necessary to examine the nuances and identify any subtle differences.

   5. Bajaj Pulsar N160 - Rs 1,22,854

Bajaj has disrupted the market with the most affordable dual-channel ABS-equipped bike in India, the N160. Powered by a 164.82cc, single-cylinder, air-and-oil-cooled engine, it offers 16PS of power and 14.65Nm of torque.

In the highly competitive entry-level 160cc sporty segment, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has been the dominant player. However, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 emerges as a promising contender to challenge the Apache's reign. Despite a slightly firm monoshock setup, the N160 impressed us with its lively and refined engine, optional dual-channel ABS, and remarkable handling. Bajaj has also managed to offer both variants of the Pulsar N160 at a competitive price point.

This raises the question of what the future holds for the Pulsar NS160. Bajaj has confirmed that the NS160 will continue to coexist alongside the N160 due to its significant popularity in certain regions of the country. 

Bonus Bike: 

Bajaj Pulsar 250s - Rs 1,49,978

While not the most affordable ABS bikes, the Bajaj Pulsar 250 twins are the least expensive bikes in their segment to feature dual-channel ABS. Therefore, it is worth mentioning them on the list.

Bajaj has made significant strides in enhancing the Pulsar brand with the introduction of the new Pulsar 250. The standout feature of this motorcycle is its impressive engine. However, there is a major concern, and that is the timing of its release. In the presence of advanced competitors, the Pulsar 250 may appear a bit outdated. 

Even Rajiv Bajaj himself acknowledges that the new Pulsars are arriving about four years later than they should have, and we couldn't agree more. Pulsars are known for being disruptors rather than just another offering, and this is where the issue lies with the Pulsar 250, in my opinion.