Projector headlights have been around for decades, first debuting in high-end cars before eventually trickling down to mass-market models. Motorcycles followed the same path – projectors were once reserved for premium bikes but are now increasingly common even in affordable commuter machines.
A projector setup can use either a halogen bulb or an LED, but the key advantage lies in better illumination, a more consistent spread and a controlled beam throw compared to conventional reflector headlights. With demand for improved visibility on the rise, several manufacturers now offer this feature in the budget segment. Here’s a look at six motorcycles priced under Rs 1.5 lakh that come factory-fitted with projector headlights.
7. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
Rs 1.16 lakh - 1.36 lakh
To celebrate 20 years of the Apache, TVS introduced the updated RTR 160 4V and RTR 200 4V with a mono-projector LED headlight. The RTR 200 4V is not included in this list as it did not make the cut, but both motorcycles share the same front-end design. TVS says the mono-projector headlight flanked by twin daytime running lamps (DRLs) at the bottom will be the signature face of the upcoming Apaches.
6. Bajaj Pulsar N250
Rs 1.33 lakh
The Pulsar N250 is the only 250cc model on this list. Like the Apache, it also features a mono-projector LED headlight but differs in its DRL placement. The N250 gets twin DRLs positioned above the headlight, giving it a distinct identity compared to the Apache’s setup, though it does share some resemblance with the Yamaha MT-15.
5. Yamaha FZ-X
Rs 1.19 lakh - 1.30 lakh
The FZ-X is the quirkiest-looking model in Yamaha’s FZ line-up. Unlike the other FZs that sport pseudo-muscular styling, the FZ-X adopts a more commuter-oriented design. Taking centre stage at the front is its LED mono-projector headlight, encircled by a DRL that defines the bike’s face. The model is offered in a range of colours, including black, blue and orange, and a chrome finish on the top-spec variant. Yamaha has also recently introduced the FZ-X Hybrid equipped with an ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) system that shuts off the engine at idle and restarts it seamlessly when the clutch is engaged.
4. Bajaj Pulsar 220F
Rs 1.27 lakh
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The Pulsar 220F is not only one of the oldest bikes on this list but also among the first in India to feature a projector headlight. Owing to its age, it remains the only bike here to use a halogen projector, while the others have moved on to LED units.
3. Yamaha FZ Rave
Rs 1.17 lakh
The newest addition to Yamaha’s FZ range, the FZ Rave, is powered by the tried and tested 149cc single-cylinder air-cooled motor, making 12.4hp and 13.3Nm of torque and mated to a 5-speed gearbox. What has changed is the new, edgy LED headlight on the Rave compared to the other FZ bikes. The Rave also gets red wheels, and you can have this motorcycle in two colours – black and matte green. Priced at Rs 1.17 lakh, it is one of the most affordable FZs.
2. Pulsar N160
Rs 1.13 lakh - 1.26 lakh
The N160 is the smallest Pulsar in Bajaj’s line-up to feature an LED projector headlight. Its front end is identical to the larger N250, but it comes at a more affordable price thanks to the smaller engine. Earlier this year, the N160 was also updated with a USD fork.
1. Hero Xtreme 125R
Rs 89,000 - 1.04 lakh
The Hero Xtreme 125R is the most affordable bike in the country to feature an LED projector headlight. It goes a step further with twin projector units serving as the low-beam, flanked by twin LED reflectors that function as the high-beam. More recently, Hero also introduced a new variant with dual-channel ABS, priced at Rs 1.04 lakh.
