TechLekh Awards: Best Bikes of 2025 in Nepal Winners!

Motorcycling in Nepal has always meant more than just getting from one place to another. It represents freedom, exploration, and a sense of independence that scooters and cars cannot quite match.

While 2025 saw fewer motorcycle launches than the year before, the impact was far stronger. The bikes that did arrive brought meaningful upgrades, addressed long-standing shortcomings, and aligned closely with what Nepali riders actually want today.

These launches went beyond buzz and fundamentally reset expectations across their segments. From this pool of 2025 arrivals, we have selected the motorcycles that truly stood out. This is the 2025 Edition of the TechLekh Awards for the Best Bikes in Nepal!

TechLekh Awards: Best Bikes of 2025 in Nepal

So, how did we go about handing out the TechLekh Awards?

Our approach was a careful balance between measurable metrics and meaningful impact. We evaluated each motorcycle on clear parameters like price, performance, features, and practicality, while also weighing less tangible factors such as design appeal, segment identity, and brand perception. Most importantly, we asked one core question: Does this motorcycle genuinely represent what 2025 stood for in its segment?

These awards are not just about naming winners. They reflect the direction Nepal’s two-wheeler market is heading toward, where innovation, relevance, and real-world value are finally coming together.

Now, let’s jump into the award categories for the bikes. They are as follows:

1. Best Debut Bike
2. Best Commuter Bike
3. Best All-Rounder Bike
4. Best Value Bike

TechLekh Awards: Best Bikes of 2025 Winners

Now, let’s get the list started, beginning with…

#1. Best Debut Bike: KTM 390 Enduro R

The KTM 390 Enduro R takes the Best Debut Bike of 2025 because it fills a long-standing gap in Nepal’s sub-400cc segment: a motorcycle built primarily for real off-road use rather than adventure-styled versatility. Nepal has always shown interest in trail and dual-sport motorcycles, yet most available options have either been underpowered or positioned at a much higher price point. The 390 Enduro R finally offers a middle ground.

Priced at Rs. 10 Lakhs, it uses KTM’s 399cc LC4c engine producing 44.25 PS and 39 Nm. While not class-leading on paper, the linear torque delivery is well-tuned for technical terrain. The adjustable WP APEX suspension (200/205mm travel) and 253 mm ground clearance significantly improve confidence on rough trails. Electronics such as Ride Modes, Quickshifter+, Slipper Clutch, and Off-Road ABS add meaningful support without overwhelming the rider.

Compared to alternatives like the Honda CRF300L, the KTM offers competitive capability at a more accessible price, though the CRF still leads in suspension travel and ground clearance. That said, the Enduro R isn’t without its limitations. Its tall seat height can be challenging for many riders, and the overall cost remains substantial for the segment.

Even so, the 390 Enduro R is the only bike in its price range that delivers genuine off-road hardware with minimal compromise. That makes it the standout Debut Motorcycle of 2025.

#2. Best Commuter Bike: TVS Raider 125 iGO

The new TVS Raider 125 iGO wins Best Commuter Bike of 2025 because it continues to offer the strongest balance of fuel efficiency, urban usability, and practical everyday features in the 125cc segment. While most brands introduce incremental improvements, TVS added upgrades that have a noticeable real-world impact.

At Rs. 3.10 Lakhs, the Raider iGO isn’t the cheapest, but the iGO hybrid-assist system enhances initial acceleration and improves low-speed responsiveness. The torque increase from 11.2 Nm to 11.75 Nm may seem modest, but it’s genuinely useful in stop-and-go traffic. Features like Silent Start, Auto Start/Stop, and Glide-Through-Traffic add convenience without unnecessary complexity.

A new TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, Turn-by-Turn Navigation, and Voice Assist further elevates the riding experience. The sporty design, LED headlamp, sharp tank shrouds, and split-seat layout give the Raider a premium feel uncommon at this price.

There are drawbacks: older riders may find the design too aggressive, and the feature-rich interface may feel excessive for those who prefer simpler controls. Even so, no other commuter in this price range matches the Raider iGO’s combination of efficiency, performance, and meaningful features. Whenever rivals such as the Hero Xtreme 125R or Bajaj Pulsar N125 narrow the gap, TVS widens it again. That consistency is why the Raider 125 iGO continued to lead the Commuter category in 2025.

#3. Best All-Rounder Bike: KTM 390 Adventure R

The KTM 390 Adventure R wins the Best All-Rounder Bike because it handles multiple roles like touring, daily riding, and moderate off-roading without forcing the rider to compromise heavily in any one area.

Priced at Rs. 10.75 Lakhs, it uses KTM’s 399cc engine tuned for broader usability. The 45 PS / 39 Nm output is adequate for highway use while staying manageable on rough terrain. Its biggest advantage is the hardware: fully adjustable WP APEX suspension (230mm travel) and 272 mm ground clearance. These improvements translate into real performance benefits on unpaved routes, unlike stiffer setups seen on typical adventure-styled motorcycles.

Tubeless wire-spoke wheels offer better practicality and resilience compared to tube-type setups in this category. The electronics suite like Traction Control, Cornering TC, Ride Modes, and multiple ABS modes, is robust yet intuitive enough for experienced riders. Drawbacks exist: the tall seat height limits accessibility for many, and the overall package may feel complex for new adventure riders due to the number of adjustable settings and electronic modes.

Still, the 390 Adventure R offers more capable suspension and far better off-road geometry for its price. This balance of comfort, capability, and long-distance practicality makes it the most versatile sub-400cc All-Rounder in Nepal.

#4. Best Value Bike: Bajaj Pulsar N160 USD

The new Bajaj Pulsar N160 USD wins Best Value Bike of 2025 because it delivers meaningful mechanical upgrades and refined ride quality in a segment where prices have risen rapidly. Rather than relying on cosmetic features, the N160 focuses on improvements that directly affect the riding experience.

At Rs. 4.20 Lakhs, it offers features rarely seen in this price bracket: a 37 mm USD fork, Dual-Channel ABS, and even Switchable ABS. The 164.82cc engine produces 16 PS and 14.65 Nm, but its standout trait is the wide torque band, allowing smoother acceleration and less frequent shifting in city conditions.

Ride quality is a major strength. The chassis feels planted yet comfortable, making it appealing for riders upgrading from 125–150cc motorcycles. Despite this, the N160 has limitations: top-end performance trails behind sportier 160cc competitors like the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, and the digital console lacks advanced features offered by newer rivals.

Even with these shortcomings, the Pulsar N160’s combination of price, equipment, refinement, and long-term ownership cost makes it the strongest value proposition in the commuter-sport segment for 2025.

TechLekh Awards: Best Bikes of 2025 Winners List

Here’s the summary list of the titles and their respective winners of the TechLekh Awards for the Best Bikes of 2025:

So these are our picks for the Best Bikes of 2025 in various categories. What do you think about it? Let us know in the comments!