5 iconic two-wheelers that transformed travel in India

When you are fresh out of college and on the cusp of your career, owning a car can seem like a tall order. For that and several other reasons, many people prefer buying a two-wheeler. It is affordable, convenient, easy to park, and simpler to navigate on Indian roads. And the country has been lucky to have produced and assembled iconic two-wheelers that have shaped industry trends for decades. So, let us take a look at some of the finest two-wheelers to have graced Indian roads.

1. Royal Enfield Bullet

Unknown to nobody, the Royal Enfield Bullet has been synonymous with adventurous bikers in India. Imported by Madras Motors in 1949, the Bullet 350 started its journey as a vehicle of the Indian Army and was quickly embraced by the average Indian household. With a rugged design promising to withstand the toughest of terrains, the bike boasted a 346cc capacity along with a four-stroke, air-cooled engine that produces 18bhp and 30Nm torque. The fact that it is still in production makes this behemoth one of the longest-running bikes in the country.

2. Bajaj Chetak

Recently reinvented with an electronic avatar, the Bajaj Chetak was first introduced to the Indian market in 1972. The original design was based on the Vespa Sprint, but its tyre size (3.5-10) made it stand out, which bested another popular Bajaj model at the time — The Bajaj Super. It was not just its quality, availability, and affordability that made it a household name, but also its famous 'Hamara Bajaj' campaign that propelled it to the top of the two-wheeler market. Such was Chetak's demand that it took a decade or more for there to be no more waiting period.

3. Kinetic Honda

Kinetic and Honda were two industry titans that came together to produce the Kinetic Honda, one of India's first automatic scooters that revolutionised the sector. The scooter was associated with luxury, especially for women riders who preferred a lightweight model to get around the city easily. Beyond the fact that it was gearless, Kinetic Honda was similar to other scooters in its league. However, its automatic technology, a first in India, is what set this two-wheeler apart.

4. Yamaha RX100

Launched in 1985, the Yamaha RX100 was all about delivering best-in-class performance, making it the go-to choice for every motorhead in India. With comfortable seating and a rugged riding posture, it boasted a 98cc single-cylinder, two-stroke air-cooled engine. Besides being a commuter bike, such was its power that it was a favourite among racers and ardent speedsters. Though it was only in production till 1996, some ride it with pride to this day, sealing its popularity as one of the best two-wheelers in the country.

5. Hero Honda Splendor

This legendary bike was launched in 1994. Multiple factors earned this motorbike its status — from the revolutionary gear technology and low maintenance to the unparalleled fuel efficiency and affordability. It didn't take long for the bike to find its way into the homes of many middle-class commuters.

Two-wheelers play an essential role in Indian households. If you've been saving up to buy one of your own, you can avail of an instant two-wheeler loan at IDFC FIRST Bank. Check your eligibility for the two-wheeler loan and bring home your new joyride in days! Not only is the whole process paperless, but you also save on processing fees and EMIs.

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