India's love affair with motorcycles is legendary. With over 21 million two-wheelers sold in the country in 2023 alone, the Indian market remains one of the largest in the world. From the bustling lanes of Delhi to the winding roads of the Western Ghats, motorcycles are more than just machines here—they're a lifestyle. But not all bikes are created equal. Based on performance, reliability, customer satisfaction, and value for money, here are ten major motorcycle brands ranked from best to worst.

1. Honda
Topping the list is Honda, the Japanese giant that has consistently won Indian hearts with models like the Activa, Shine, and Hornet. With a vast service network and unmatched reliability, Honda two-wheelers dominate urban and rural markets alike. In 2023, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India reported a market share of over 25%, reaffirming its pole position.

2. Suzuki
Often underrated, Suzuki bikes offer a perfect balance of performance, efficiency, and comfort. Models like the Gixxer and Access 125 have become household names. The brand also boasts one of the lowest maintenance costs in its class.

3. Royal Enfield
The brand that once defined India's motorcycling heritage has reinvented itself. With the Meteor, Hunter, and Classic 350 models, RE has blended nostalgia with modern engineering. "Royal Enfield's transformation in the last five years is nothing short of remarkable," says industry analyst Manisha Kulkarni. The company saw a 19% surge in exports last year.

4. Yamaha
With models like the FZ and R15, Yamaha has consistently delivered on quality and performance. Its bikes are known for refined engines and long-term reliability. Yamaha also ranks high in customer satisfaction surveys.

5. KTM
A hit among the youth, KTM offers performance-packed machines at competitive prices. "The Duke series changed the Indian perception of what a budget sportbike can do," says Ashwini Patel, a Mumbai-based auto blogger. However, comfort and refinement remain areas of improvement.

6. Jawa
A nostalgic revival that captured attention in 2018, Jawa struggled with delivery delays and quality issues in its early days. However, it has been regaining trust. Sales improved by 14% year-on-year, according to SIAM data.

7. Benelli
Italian flair met mixed results in India. While Benelli bikes are undeniably stylish and fast, inconsistent service quality and a few high-profile mechanical issues have kept buyers cautious. However, recent tie-ups with local partners hint at a turnaround.

8. Hyosung
Known for its powerful engines, Hyosung never quite overcame its perception issues. The Korean manufacturer failed to establish a strong service network, and spares remained expensive and hard to find.

9. Harley-Davidson
An iconic name worldwide, Harley struggled to find footing in India. "The brand's high prices and low practicality for Indian roads made it an aspirational but impractical choice for many," says Rajeev Mehta, a Pune-based motorcycle reviewer. While some loyalists still cherish their Hogs, Harley's sales dipped by over 60% in the past three years.

10. UM Motorcycles
Despite entering the Indian market with flair in 2014, UM failed to deliver on quality and service expectations. With high breakdown rates and sparse after-sales support, the brand lost favor rapidly. It eventually exited the Indian market in 2019, leaving many customers in the lurch.

As India gears up for a new era of electric and performance biking, brand reputation, service ecosystem, and consistent quality will continue to shape consumer choices. One thing is certain: the Indian biker is now more informed and discerning than ever.