For motorcycle enthusiasts who appreciate the timeless charm of retro bikes but don’t want to compromise on modern features, the market offers a range of options that perfectly balance both worlds. These motorcycles capture the essence of classic design while incorporating advanced technology, ensuring a vehicle's reliable ride and rider-safe.
You don't have to break the bank if you’re looking for a stylish, affordable, and performance-driven modern classic. Here’s our list of the top 5 modern classic motorcycles for under 2 lakh rupees.
The Triumph brand is synonymous with making modern classic motorcycles, and the Speed T4 is no exception. The Triumph Speed T4 boasts a perfect blend of modern engineering and classic British charm. Its teardrop-shaped fuel tank with premium badging and sculpted bodywork give it a bold yet timeless appeal. The round LED headlamp, analogue and digital instrument cluster, circular mirrors, and ribbed seat enhance its retro aesthetic. The Speed T4 strikes a balance between heritage-inspired design and modern minimalism. It fits perfectly into the modern era and provides a relaxed riders’ triangle ideal for city commutes.
The Speed T4 is also the most powerful motorcycle on this list. It is powered by a 398cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox that produces 30.6 bhp @ 7,000 rpm and 36 Nm @ 5,000 rpm.
Looking at the Hero Mavrick 440, you will be reminded of the roadsters from the 1990s. It is a neo-retro design that blends classic design ques with modern aesthetics. Its muscular fuel tank, complemented by tank shrouds and Y-shaped side covers, emphasises the bike’s metal construction. The round headlamp, featuring H-shaped LED DRLs, adds to its timeless design language.
The Mavrick 440 is powered by a 440cc single-cylinder air-oil-cooled engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox that produces 27 bhp @ 6,000 rpm and 34 Nm @ 4,000 rpm.
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 features a compact, neo-retro design with a youthful and urban appeal. Its teardrop-shaped fuel tank, round headlamp, and minimalistic bodywork give it a classic yet modern aesthetic. The blacked-out engine, alloy wheels, and short rear fender add a touch of sportiness, while the single-piece seat ensures comfort and practicality. With a slightly aggressive stance, wide handlebars, and a sleek tail section, the Hunter 350 blends Royal Enfield’s heritage with a youthful look.
I’m sure this brings the Triumph Speed T4 to mind, but both motorcycles have distinctly different designs. The Speed T4 is noticeably slimmer and more compact than the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, giving it a sportier, more agile stance.
The Hunter 350 is powered by a 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox that produces 20 bhp @ 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm at 4,000 rpm.
Many people on the internet will tell you that the CB 350 is not an original motorcycle but a wannabe Royal Enfield Class 350, so let's just say we don’t share the same opinion.
Regarding the motorcycle itself, the CB350 is a sharp-looking retro motorcycle with circular headlights, rounder mirrors, analogue and digital instrument cluster and chrome details around the motorcycle.
The CB350 is powered by a 348.3cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox, producing 20.7 bhp @ 5,500 rpm and 29.4 Nm @ 3,000 rpm.
The Jawa 42 combines classic styling with a modern, minimalist design. It features a muscular fuel tank with bold badging and a chopped rear fender that gives it a raw, retro appeal. The round headlamp and bar-end mirrors enhance its vintage charm, while the blacked-out engine and exhaust add a touch of aggression.
The Jawa 42 FJ is powered by a 334cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox, producing 19.8 bhp and 29.62 Nm of torque.
There’s no shortage of options when it comes to modern classic motorcycles. Some are perfect for daily commutes, others stand out for their aesthetic charm, but most importantly, these machines evoke a sense of nostalgia and emotion. The best part is that you get modern features like LED lighting, DRLs, and ABS for safety and convenience—all while preserving the retro appeal.
However, if classic styling isn’t your thing, there are plenty of sporty alternatives, such as the Hero Xtreme 250R, Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, and Suzuki Gixxer 250. These bikes offer higher performance, sharper handling, and cutting-edge technology. In the end, the choice is yours.
