Khyati Sharma 2026-10-30
India's two-wheeler export market continues to attract international attention, with several motorcycles manufactured by Indian companies finding strong demand in overseas markets. Popular models such as the Bajaj Boxer, TVS Star City, Bajaj Pulsar, CT, Yamaha FZ, TVS Apache, Suzuki Gixxer, TVS Raider and Hero Xtreme feature among the motorcycles being shipped to international destinations.
The first half of FY2027 (April–September 2026) has been an important period for India's two-wheeler industry. Demand from Africa, Latin America and other emerging markets has supported export growth, particularly in the affordable commuter motorcycle category.
India has established itself as an important manufacturing and export hub for two-wheelers. Companies such as Bajaj Auto, TVS Motor, Hero MotoCorp, Yamaha bikes, Suzuki bikes and Honda bikes supply motorcycles to several international markets.
According to industry data, India exported approximately 18.13 lakh motorcycles between April and July 2026, registering 33% year-on-year growth. Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor together accounted for around 76% of these exports.
The export performance highlights the growing international demand for Indian motorcycles, particularly affordable models that offer practical transportation, fuel efficiency and relatively simple maintenance.
The Bajaj Boxer has become one of the important contributors to India's motorcycle export business. The model is particularly popular in markets where customers prefer affordable, durable motorcycles for everyday commuting and commercial applications.
Bajaj has witnessed strong demand in African markets, especially Nigeria, where the Boxer 125 Heavy Duty has emerged as an important export model.
The company has also reported improved demand in Latin America, including Brazil and Mexico. Its focus on practical motorcycles with economical running costs has helped strengthen its international presence.
TVS Star City is another major contributor to India's motorcycle exports. The company offers commuter motorcycles designed around affordability, reliability and everyday usability.
The Star City family, including the Star City 125 sold as the HLX 125 in several overseas markets, has been particularly important for TVS.
During April–July 2026, TVS exported 1,56,308 motorcycles in the 100–110cc category, including models such as the Sport and Star City. Its 125cc motorcycle exports reached 3,15,575 units, registering 27% growth.
The HLX range has also gained recognition in Africa, the Middle East and Latin America.
Bajaj Pulsar is an established motorcycle name in several international markets. Its sporty styling, multiple engine options and broad product range help the brand appeal to customers looking beyond basic commuter motorcycles.
The CT series, meanwhile, focuses more on practical commuting requirements. These motorcycles are designed for customers who prioritise affordability and everyday usability.
Bajaj's export portfolio covers multiple engine-capacity categories, allowing the company to serve different customer requirements across international markets.
In April–August 2026, Bajaj's motorcycle exports included 1,02,266 units in the 125–150cc category, which includes the Boxer, CT 150 and Pulsar.
Yamaha FZ and Suzuki Gixxer represent another important part of India's motorcycle export portfolio.
Unlike entry-level commuter motorcycles, these models target customers interested in sporty styling, performance and everyday usability.
Yamaha has maintained an international presence through its FZ range, while Suzuki continues to offer motorcycles from its Gixxer family in selected markets.
These models demonstrate that India's export industry is not limited to affordable commuter motorcycles. Indian manufacturing facilities also supply motorcycles catering to customers looking for more performance-oriented products.
TVS Apache is another recognised motorcycle family in the company's international portfolio. Its sporty design and performance-focused positioning help TVS reach customers interested in motorcycles with a more aggressive character.
The TVS Raider targets the commuter segment with sporty styling and practical features. It also contributes to the company's broader international product strategy.
Hero Xtreme represents Hero MotoCorp's presence in the sporty motorcycle category. The company has been expanding its international business through a combination of commuter and premium motorcycle offerings.
Together, these motorcycle families demonstrate the diversity of India's two-wheeler manufacturing and export capabilities.
|
Motorcycle Model |
Manufacturer |
Main Segment |
|
Boxer |
Bajaj Auto |
Commuter |
|
Star City |
TVS Motor |
Commuter |
|
Pulsar |
Bajaj Auto |
Sporty commuter |
|
CT |
Bajaj Auto |
Entry-level commuter |
|
FZ |
Yamaha |
Sporty commuter |
|
Apache |
TVS Motor |
Performance motorcycle |
|
Gixxer |
Suzuki |
Sporty motorcycle |
|
Raider |
TVS Motor |
Sporty commuter |
|
Xtreme |
Hero MotoCorp |
Sporty commuter |
Africa and Latin America have become important destinations for Indian motorcycle manufacturers.
In many emerging markets, motorcycles are used not only for personal transportation but also for delivery services, small businesses and commercial activities.
This creates demand for motorcycles that are affordable, durable and economical to maintain.
Bajaj and TVS have benefited from this demand through their commuter motorcycle portfolios. Both manufacturers have established international distribution networks and offer products suited to different market requirements.
India's export opportunities are also supported by its competitive manufacturing costs, established component supply chain and experience in producing motorcycles across different engine categories.
Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor have been the two major contributors to India's motorcycle export growth.
During April–July 2026, Bajaj Auto exported 8,54,991 motorcycles, representing approximately 47% of India's motorcycle exports during that period. TVS Motor exported 5,29,041 motorcycles, accounting for around 29%.
Combined, the two companies shipped approximately 13.84 lakh motorcycles overseas.
Bajaj's export performance was supported by strong demand for its 100–125cc motorcycles, while TVS benefited from its Star City, HLX and Raider product families.
Other manufacturers, including Hero MotoCorp, Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki, also contribute to India's international two-wheeler business.
The outlook for India's motorcycle exports remains encouraging, supported by demand from developing international markets.
However, export growth will depend on several factors, including international economic conditions, currency movements, shipping costs, competition and demand in major overseas markets.
Manufacturers will also need to continue improving product quality, expanding distribution networks and adapting motorcycles to local customer requirements.
For Indian manufacturers, the opportunity extends beyond exporting affordable commuter motorcycles. Sporty motorcycles and higher-capacity models could also contribute to future growth.