How Cruise Control Bikes Are Becoming More Affordable in India: Post-GST 2.0 Updates & Best Picks

—

by

Himanshu
in ,

Cruise control used to be a premium feature reserved for high-end motorcycles. But now even mid-segment bikes and electric scooters are coming with this comfort feature. At the same time, India’s new GST 2.0 regime (effective from September 22, 2025) has reshuffled tax slabs on two-wheelers: bikes up to 350 cc now attract 18% GST (down from 28%), while those above 350 cc face 40% GST.

This combination—more features + lower tax for many bikes—means riders have more value choices than ever. In this article, we’ll:

  • List affordable motorcycles & scooters with cruise control
  • Show their prices before and after GST 2.0
  • Compare features, pros & cons
  • Raise what to watch out for

Key GST 2.0 Changes Affecting Two-Wheelers

CategoryOld GST + Cess RateNew GST Rate (from Sept 22, 2025)Who Gains / Who Pays More
Motorcycles & Scooters ≤ 350 cc28% (plus any applicable cess)18%Price reduction for popular commuter & mid-segment bikes
Motorcycles > 350 cc28% + cess40%Higher tax, more expensive for premium/adventure/tourer bikes

Affordable Bikes & Scooters with Cruise Control

Here are some of the affordable bikes/scooters in India offering factory-installed cruise control. Prices shown are ex-showroom India.

ModelSegment / EngineKey Features (besides Cruise Control)Old Price (Pre-GST 2.0)Estimated New Price (Post-GST 2.0)
Hero Glamour X 125124.7 cc commuter3 ride modes (Eco / Road / Power), LED lighting, ride-by-wire throttle~ ₹ 89,999 (drum variant) – disc variant ~ ₹ 99,999Slight reduction (≈ ₹ 6,000-₹ 10,000) as GST falls from 28% to 18%
TVS Apache RTR 310312 cc performance commuterLiquid-cooled engine, multiple ride modes, good electronics~ ₹ 2,50,000Reduced by GST effect; new price approx ~ ₹ 2,30,000-₹ 2,35,000
TVS Apache RR 310312 cc faired sport bikeFull fairing, touring capability, electronic aids~ ₹ 2,78,000New ex-showroom around ~ ₹ 2,60,000-₹ 2,65,000
KTM 390 Duke399 cc naked performanceBig power, sharp handling, premium components~ ₹ 2,95,000Likely higher due to >350 cc GST rate hike (40%); expected increase
KTM 390 Adventure399 cc adventure tourerOff-road readiness, long travel suspension, wind protection~ ₹ 3,68,000Similar to above, will see higher GST; prices may go up moderately

Note: The estimated New Price column reflects the impact of the GST revision and assumes manufacturers pass on full benefit (or full burden, in case of >350 cc) to customers. Actual prices may vary with location, variant, dealer margins, and state taxes.

Which Models Benefit the Most

  • Bikes up to 350 cc with cruise control see real benefit: lower tax → better value to customer.
  • Lower-end models gaining modern features are especially appealing, e.g. commuter bikes like Glamour X 125 with cruise control now become more accessible.
  • Premium/performance bikes (above 350 cc) will see their cost increase or remain high, dampening affordability.

Pros & Cons of Cruise Control in Affordable Bikes

ProsCons
Better comfort on highways (less throttle fatigue)Adds electronic complexity—may increase maintenance costs
Improved touring abilityCruise control often only in higher variants, not base trims
More modern riding experience, appeals to younger ridersIf bike >350 cc, higher GST may offset cost benefit
Competitive advantage among brandsIn city riding or heavy traffic, its usefulness is limited

FAQs

Q: What exactly qualifies as “cruise control” on these bikes?
A: It’s a system that allows a rider to set a constant speed (via controls) without constantly holding the throttle. Modern bikes use ride-by-wire throttles, and cruise cancels when brakes or clutch are engaged.

Q: Will the price drop be automatic for all bikes ≤ 350 cc?
A: No. Price changes depend on whether manufacturers choose to pass the GST benefit fully to buyers. Some may absorb partially; others may adjust variants, features, etc.

Q: Why do bikes > 350 cc now cost more after GST 2.0?
A: Because GST for those has gone up from the old slab to a new 40%. More tax means higher ex-showroom and on-road prices unless the manufacturer absorbs some cost, which is rare.

Q: Does cruise control increase fuel consumption or reduce performance?
A: Not significantly if used appropriately. Cruise control maintains throttle position; if terrain varies, fuel usage may fluctuate. Performance isn’t reduced, but responsiveness depends on bike design.

Q: What should I check before buying a bike with cruise control?
A: Key checks: reference whether the variant you choose has cruise control, test responsiveness and cancellation (does throttle resume well, how braking/clutch affects it), check service support and reliability of electronics.

Impacts on Buyers & Market Trends

  • More riders might choose bikes with cruise control as value adds get more accessible.
  • First-time buyers and those wanting comfort on long rides benefit most.
  • Premium bike manufacturers might bundle more features to justify price hikes due to GST.
  • State-by-state pricing variations still matter (road tax, insurance, etc.).

Conclusion

With the twin trends of cruise control becoming more common in affordable bikes and GST 2.0 lowering taxes for motorcycles up to 350 cc, India’s two-wheeler market is seeing a sweet spot. Models like Hero Glamour X 125 and the TVS Apache RTR / RR 310 are now more attractive from a value perspective.

But if you’re looking at bikes above 350 cc, be prepared for increased costs. The GST increase for those segments may negate the benefits of features like cruise control unless fully offset by brand pricing strategies.

If you’re shopping now, try to compare pre-GST and post-GST prices for variants with cruise control, and check what features you get for what you pay. This will help you make a smarter decision.