The first two-wheeler in India was the Royal Enfield Bullet, which was used for military purposes. It was manufactured in England, and assembled in Madras. Since then, two-wheeler vehicles have come a long way in the country, and now India is one of the four largest two-wheeler markets in the world. Let’s take a look at the top eight two-wheeler companies in the country.
1. Hero MotoCorp Ltd
The Hero Motor Corp Ltd is the country’s largest two-wheeler market in India. With many fuel-efficient bikes coming from the Hero camp, like Splendor, Passion and CD100, the brand is famous globally.
2.Honda
The Honda Activa, is probably the most famous two-wheeler brand in the country, which comes from this Japanese brand. It was the first brand to adopt BS6 emission norms and though relatively costlier than other brands, Honda remains a preferred choice for many. Honda is also credited with having the World’s Largest only scooter plant in Gujarat.
3. Royal Enfield
Now a subsidiary of Eicher Motors, the company is credited with introducing cruiser motorcycles in India. The Classic 350, Thunderbird, Interceptor, Himalayan and Continental GT are some of their legendary models. It is the oldest motorcycle brand, which is in continuous production.
4.TVS Motor
The company started with building mopeds like TVS50 and graduated to making bikes like the Apache RR310. Adopting BS6 norms, TVS manufactures fuel-efficient and affordable bikes. In recent times, the NTorq has garnered a positive response.
5. Bajaj
This Indian from the heart brand, Bajaj shot to fame with its iconic Chetak scooters. Pulsar followed in 2001, which completely changed the two-wheeler scene in India. With affordable bikes like Boxer and Platina, that comply with BS6 emission norms, the company also made an effort in re-launching Chetak in the electrified form.
6. Yamaha
Another Japanese brand in the country, as a front runner in the bike segment. Yamaha’s superbikes like R1 and MT-09 are cult bikes, that exhibit efficiency and also look elegant. Its Fascino made waves in the scooter segment and other popular bikes include the Fazer and MT 15. The brand is highly customer-driven having a deeply penetrated, country-wide distribution network.
7. Piaggio
The leading European brand that serves over a 100+ countries, has a fan following in India too. Its Vespa has been extremely popular along with Aprilia, Gilera and Moto Guzzi.
8. Suzuki
The Suzuki Access 125 is the only worthy competitor to Honda’s Activa. Its Gixxer also managed to create buzz and the company has made a brand name for itself in the market.
The list of companies above are in no particular order. Along with these, there are other names like KTM, Kawasaki and Mahindra’s Jawa that too deserve a mention.
