The Indian two-wheeler market is gearing up for an exciting 2026. Enthusiasts and daily commuters alike have a lot to look forward to, as major manufacturers like Bajaj, Yamaha, and KTM have officially laid out their roadmaps. From feature-packed commuters to aggressive track machines, here is the ultimate detailed guide to the most anticipated upcoming bikes in India.
1. Bajaj Pulsar 2026 Series: The 8-Bike Expansion
Bajaj is going all-in on its iconic Pulsar brand. The strategy involves launching up to 8 new or heavily updated models by mid-2026, targeting the 125cc to 250cc segments.
Spotlight: The Upgraded Pulsar 125
- Expected Price: ₹89,910 to ₹92,046 (Ex-showroom).
- Engine & Power: Powered by a refined 124.38cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine delivering 11.6 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 10.8 Nm of peak torque at 6,500 rpm. It is mated to a slick 5-speed gearbox.
- Fuel Efficiency (Mileage): Expected to return a highly economical 50-55 kmpl in city riding conditions.
- Next-Gen Tech: Riders will get a fully digital LCD instrument cluster featuring Bluetooth connectivity, call/SMS alerts, and turn-by-turn navigation. The lighting setup is now all-LED.
- Hardware: Telescopic front forks and twin gas-charged rear shock absorbers for a comfortable city commute.
- Main Rivals: TVS Raider 125 and Hero Xtreme 125R.
2. Yamaha XSR155: The Neo-Retro Marvel (Metallic Black Edition)
Yamaha has slightly increased the pricing for its highly demanded XSR155, but the introduction of the premium Metallic Black edition makes it completely worth the extra cash.
- Revised Price: ₹1,58,990 (Ex-showroom, Delhi).
- Engine Dynamics: Houses the legendary 155cc, liquid-cooled, 4-valve engine equipped with VVA (Variable Valve Actuation). It produces a thrilling 18.4 bhp at 10,000 rpm and 14.2 Nm of torque.
- Premium Components: Built on the highly rigid Deltabox frame, it features standout Golden Upside-Down (USD) front forks and a lightweight aluminum swingarm for unmatched cornering stability.
- Safety & Features: Comes standard with dual-channel ABS, Traction Control System (TCS), and an Assist & Slipper clutch for smooth downshifts.
- Expected Mileage: Around 45-48 kmpl, making it a practical daily rider despite its sporty DNA.
3. KTM RC 160: The Track-Ready Supersport
KTM continues to dominate the entry-level performance segment. The 2026 iteration of the RC 160 brings bold new aesthetics to match its razor-sharp aerodynamics.
- Price Tag: Approximately ₹1.85 Lakh (Ex-showroom).
- Striking New Colors: Now available in Electronic Orange Matte and Ceramic White Matte, giving it a big-bike appeal.
- Performance Specs: A 164.2cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine that churns out an impressive 18.73 bhp and 17.65 Nm of torque.
- Track-Oriented Hardware: Features a stiff steel trellis frame, WP Apex suspension setup (front and rear), and lightweight alloy wheels to reduce unsprung mass.
- Braking & Safety: Equipped with ByBre brakes and KTM’s signature Supermoto ABS, allowing riders to lock the rear wheel for controlled slides on the track.
- Top Speed: Easily crosses the 118 kmph mark with aggressive gearing.
2026 Specification Comparison at a Glance
| Specifications | Pulsar 125 (2026) | Yamaha XSR155 | KTM RC 160 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 124.38cc, Air-Cooled | 155cc VVA, Liquid-Cooled | 164.2cc, Liquid-Cooled |
| Power | 11.6 bhp | 18.4 bhp | 18.73 bhp |
| Mileage | ~55 kmpl | ~45 kmpl | ~38 kmpl |
| Best For | City Commuting & Tech | Retro Styling & Touring | Track Days & Speed |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will the 8 new Bajaj Pulsar models launch?
Bajaj Auto is expected to roll out these 8 new models in a phased manner, with the final model launching by mid-May 2026.
Is the Yamaha XSR155 a good bike for daily commuting?
Yes, thanks to its VVA technology, the XSR155 offers a great balance of low-end torque for city traffic and high-end performance for highways, delivering around 45 kmpl.
Does the KTM RC 160 have a quickshifter?
Currently, the RC 160 does not come with a standard quickshifter, but its smooth 6-speed gearbox and slipper clutch make gear transitions seamless.