Bikes are commonly used for travel in India, but some people also enjoy biking as a pastime or sport. This is why so many kinds of bikes are available at various price points from different companies.
When picking a bike brand, you might be unsure whether to go with an Indian or an international brand. You might be curious about what each type of bike offers and which one will best suit your biking style.
Have you ever wondered why bikes from overseas are pricier than those made in India? Don’t fret! This article will help clarify the differences between Indian and international bike brands, helping you make the right choice.
Indian and international bike brands vary in several aspects, such as quality, longevity, design, and cost. Let’s delve into these factors in more depth.
Distinctive Traits of Bicycle Brands from India
Indian bike brands are recognized for their toughness and strength. They are built to endure the rough conditions and diverse landscapes across India. These bikes are crafted from top-notch materials like iron, steel, and aluminum. This gives them the robustness needed to carry heavy loads over any type of terrain. Now, let’s explore more about what makes Indian bikes unique:
1. Made Locally in Large Quantities
Many Indian bike brands make their cycles right here at home in large numbers to cut costs. This often means simpler designs and less emphasis on high-tech elements. The welding might not be top-notch either because the focus is more on cost-saving than innovation.
2. Tough, Heavy Frames on Indian Bikes
A key feature of Indian bikes is their sturdy frames. They are heavy and robust because they are made of iron and steel without much attention to weight control. However, to stay competitive with imported bikes, some Indian brands like Firefox, Montra, OMO, and Hercules have begun using aluminum alloy frames. These frames are lightweight and resist rust and corrosion.
3. Lower Price Tags (starting from 5000 rupees)
Compared to imported bikes, Indian cycles are more affordable for the average buyer. This is because they use heavier frame materials, less expensive parts (often from China), and don’t come with import duties. But some leading Indian bike brands like Firefox, Ninety-One, and Montra now offer premium bikes with alloy frames and branded components at reasonable prices (around 50,000 rupees).
4. Inexpensive Parts and Components
Most Indian bike brands use low-cost parts and components since they produce their bikes on a large scale. Ludhiana is the hub of the Indian bike industry, where bikes and their interests are made. However, the focus is only sometimes on quality. The designs are often copied and fitted into the bikes, enabling them to offer bikes at lower prices.
5. Affordable Upkeep
Indian bikes are easy to maintain due to their simple design and inexpensive components. If you need to replace a part, it’s usually not going to cost much, just a few hundred rupees.
6.No Import Charges
Since Indian bike brands make and sell their cycles within the country, they don’t have to pay import duties on the bikes themselves, which helps keep costs down. But they have to pay import taxes on parts like derailleurs and shifters from Shimano, Microshift, and Sram. You can even find these components on bikes made in India!
Indian bike brands also offer various styles and models to cater to different needs and tastes. For instance, bikes are designed for city riding, off-road excursions, and long-distance journeys.
These brands also provide a selection of gears and brake systems so riders can pick the best fit for their specific requirements.
Characteristics of Bicycles Imported from Abroad
1. Tech-Driven, Innovative Designs
Imported bike brands are recognized for their superior materials and cutting-edge technology. These bikes are often the choice of professional riders and biking enthusiasts, designed to deliver speed and high performance. They’re crafted from light materials like carbon fiber, titanium, and composite materials, making them quicker and more responsive.
Imported bike brands frequently incorporate advanced features such as electronic gear shifting and suspension systems to enhance the ride and boost performance.
2. High-Quality, Lightweight Frame Material
A standout feature of imported bike brands is the top-notch materials they employ. Imported bikes are constructed from lightweight yet sturdy materials like carbon fiber, titanium, and composite materials.
These materials make the bikes quicker, more responsive, and easier to steer. The frames are also designed for aerodynamics, which enhances the bike’s speed and performance. This makes imported bikes perfect for races and competitive cycling.
3. An Array of Bicycles for Every Need
Imported bike brands provide various models and styles to cater to different needs and tastes. For instance, there are models crafted for road races, models built for mountain biking, and models tailored for triathlons.
They also offer diverse gear and brake systems, enabling riders to pick the most suitable option.
4. Cutting-Edge Technology
One more characteristic of imported bikes is the use of advanced technology. They often come with features like electronic gear shifting and air-suspension systems, which elevate the riding experience and boost performance.
These bikes also showcase advanced aerodynamic designs, making them quicker and more responsive. Such technology makes imported bikes perfect for competitive cycling and racing.
5. High-Priced for Indian Buyers
Regarding cost, imported bike brands typically charge more than Indian brands but offer superior quality and design. These bikes are aimed at professional cyclists and enthusiasts ready to invest in high-quality, high-performance bikes.
In contrast, Indian bike brands are more budget-friendly and accessible to the average Indian buyer.
Comparing Indian and Imported Bike Brands
Indian and imported bike brands vary in durability, design, tech features, and cost. Indian bike brands are famous for their sturdy build and longevity, and they typically come with a more budget-friendly price tag for the average Indian buyer.
On the other hand, imported bike brands are recognized for their superior, lightweight materials and cutting-edge technology, but these come at a steeper price. This might not be ideal for the average Indian buyer due to the higher cost.
Drawbacks of Bike Brands from India
When buying a bike, it’s essential to know that there are some drawbacks to Indian bicycle brands.
- Limited Advanced Technology and Design: Indian bikes might not offer the same level of technology and design as imported ones, which could result in a less efficient and comfortable ride.
- Absence of Aerodynamic Design and Lightweight Materials: They might also need advanced aerodynamic design and lightweight materials, which could impact their speed and performance.
- Inadequate After-sales Service and Support: Some Indian bike makers may not provide the same customer service and support as imported brands. This could make it challenging to get repairs or replacement parts when necessary.
- Heavy Weight: Most Indian bikes are pretty heavy, making them less ideal for racing and long-distance riding.
- Basic and Traditional Design: Indian bikes might have a more fundamental and traditional design, which might be less appealing to some riders.
In general, Indian bikes have good and bad points. They are famous for being strong and long-lasting and usually cost less. However, they might need the latest technology and style.
Drawbacks of Imported Bike Brands
But foreign bike brands also have some drawbacks that are worth thinking about.
- Cost Issues: Foreign bikes often cost more than Indian brands, making them hard for regular people to buy.
- Maintenance Expense: Fixing these bikes can be pricey, especially if you need new parts or repairs.
- Design Preferences: While foreign bikes might look modern and slick, some people might prefer the classic look of Indian bikes.
- Availability of Parts: Finding parts for foreign bikes in India can be challenging if you need to replace anything.
- Lack of Skilled Mechanics: Finding mechanics who know how to work on these foreign brands for tune-ups or services can take time and effort.
- Road Suitability: Indian roads might not best fit foreign bikes.
Bikes from foreign brands are generally recognized for their top-notch materials and cutting-edge tech. However, they cost more and might not be the best fit for the conditions and landscape in India.
Final Thoughts: Indian or Foreign Bike Brands
Choosing between an Indian or foreign bike brand depends on what you need and like. Indian bike brands are known for being tough and long-lasting, and they usually cost less, which makes them more accessible for the average person in India to buy.
Foreign bike brands use top-quality materials and the latest tech but often cost more. Both kinds of brands have their good and bad points, so it’s up to you to think about them and decide.
When picking a brand, remember to consider how long the bike will last, how it looks, and how much it costs.
Related:Hercules Roadeo NFS Review
Resources:
- https://velocrushindia.com/indian-cycle-vs-imported-cycle/
- https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-difference-between-Indian-cycle-brands-Hero-Atlas-Montra-Firefox-and-imported-cycle-brands-Giant-Scott-Trek
A passionate cyclist with an unwavering love for the open road and founder of topbikesguide.com . Energetic and dedicated, this enthusiast embraces the thrill of speed and the freedom of two wheels.