Performance always comes at a price, which could vary based on the manufacturer. But in the last decade, performance bikes have become more accessible and affordable. With the recent implementation of GST 2.0, prices of bikes below 350cc have dropped significantly, and some of the models listed here have benefited from this change. Here’s a list of the most powerful motorcycles priced under Rs 2.50 lakh. 

All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi.

7. Hero Xtreme 250R

30hp

Rs 1.66 lakh

The Xtreme 250R marks Hero’s plunge into the quarter-litre segment. Powering this bike is a 249cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that produces 30hp and 25Nm, making it the most powerful Hero motorcycle on sale. However, on this list, the Xtreme 250R is the least powerful, producing 1hp less than its chief rival – the KTM 250 Duke. Priced at Rs 1.66 lakh, it is the most affordable bike in this compilation. 

6. KTM 250 Duke

31hp

Rs 2.12 lakh

The quarter-litre Duke is not only a capable performer but also an excellent handler. Boasting high-quality materials and features, the 250 Duke makes for a compelling proposition. It is powered by a 249cc single-cylinder motor that produces 31hp at 9,250 rpm and 25Nm of torque at 7,250rpm. The Gen-3 250 Duke also has revised ergonomics, an aluminium swingarm, a quickshifter and a TFT display, all of which work in tandem to make this one of the nicest 250cc motorcycles money can buy. The 250 Duke is priced at Rs 2.12 lakh after the recent GST rate revision.

Also see: 2024 KTM 250 Duke review: 31hp never felt this good

5. Triumph Speed T4

31hp

Rs 1.93 lakh

The Speed T4 largely gets the same 399cc engine as the Speed 400. However, it has seen some extensive internal rework. Key changes include a smaller throttle body, revised camshafts, a redesigned airbox and a 31 percent increase in crank inertia – resulting in a lower power output of 31hp and 36Nm of torque.

Starting at Rs 1.93 lakh, the Speed T4 is the most affordable Triumph you can buy today. To achieve this price tag, the T4 forgoes a few electronic features and one hardware component – ride-by-wire, traction control, immobiliser and the golden upside-down fork. Recently, the T4 also received an update to its paint scheme featuring new colours and a brushed aluminium finish for its exhaust as compared to the earlier black powder coating.

Even though the Speed T4 sits above the 350cc category, which attracts heavier taxes post the rollout of GST 2.0, Bajaj has decided to absorb the impact. Moreover, the company is offering a Rs 6,000 discount, resulting in this aggressive pricing. 

4. TVS Apache RTR 310

35.6hp

Rs 2.21 lakh-2.86 lakh

The Apache RTR 310 is the naked counterpart to the Apache RR 310. The RTR 310 is equipped with a 312cc single-cylinder motor that produces 35.6hp at 9,700rpm and 28.7Nm at 6,650rpm. What also helps is that the Apache RTR 310 is a feature-loaded package brimming with electronic wizardry and safety nets. You can choose from three variants priced between Rs 2.21 lakh and Rs 2.86 lakh.

Also see: TVS Apache RTR 310 review: the heart of the matter

3. Bajaj Dominar 400 

40hp

Rs 1.77 lakh

The Dominar 400 is a mile-muncher with a proven powerhouse borrowed from the KTM 390 Duke. Its 373cc single-cylinder engine produces 40hp at 8,800rpm and 35Nm at 6,500rpm. The only thing holding back the Dominar 400 is its weight. At 192kg, it is the heaviest motorcycle on this list. The Dominar 400 is available for Rs 1.77 lakh.

Also see: 2021 Bajaj Dominar 400 review, first ride

2. Triumph Speed 400

40hp

Rs 2.34 lakh

The baby Triumph is powered by a 398cc motor that produces 40hp at 8,000rpm and 37.5Nm at 6,500rpm. Much like its more affordable sibling, the T4, the Speed 400 also attracts higher taxes, but with Bajaj absorbing the hike and discounts, its price has dropped significantly from Rs 2.46 lakh earlier. At Rs 2.34 lakh, the Triumph is quite a value purchase and gives you access to a premium badge at a digestible price tag.

1. Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z 

43hp

Rs 1.93 lakh

The Pulsar NS400Z is the most powerful bike in Bajaj’s Pulsar range and also on this list. For starters, it has the same engine and frame as the Dominar 400 but is 18kg lighter. Weighing 174kg, the NS400Z has a clear advantage in terms of performance and gets the benefit of electronic aids, such as traction control and riding modes, which work in tandem with the ABS. Priced at Rs 1.93 lakh, the Pulsar NS400Z also offers the most value. With a recent comprehensive update, the power has increased from 40hp to 43hp in Sport mode; there’s also a bi-directional quickshifter enabled via software wizardry and better tyres with sintered brake pads.

Also see: 2025 Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z review: More power, more grip

Also read: Harley X440 vs Triumph Speed 400 vs RE Classic 350 comparison: Battle Royale