#6 — Bajaj CT 110X — The Rugged Workhorse
The Bajaj CT 110X is built specifically for rough Indian roads — and that is exactly where most delivery riders spend their time. The “X” in the name stands for its rugged character: it features an engine bashplate to protect the motor from stones and speed bumps, a raised front fender for better ground clearance, wider handlebars for control on broken surfaces, and a robust tubular frame that takes a beating without flinching. The 115.45cc engine provides noticeably more pulling power than 100cc bikes, which makes a real difference when you are carrying a heavy delivery bag uphill.
The suspension is tuned for comfort on rough roads with longer travel at both ends. The 200 mm ground clearance is the highest on this list, meaning you can clear speed bumps and deep potholes without scraping the underside. The CT 110X consistently delivers 60–65 km/l even with loaded riding, which is impressive for its engine size.
Commercial Verdict: The CT 110X is the perfect delivery bike for semi-urban and rural areas where road conditions are unpredictable. The engine guard, high ground clearance, and rugged build mean this bike can handle the worst roads India throws at it — day after day, delivery after delivery.
👍 Pros
- Best ground clearance on this list at 200 mm — pothole proof
- Engine guard protects against stones, bumps, and underbody impacts
- 115cc engine has more torque for loaded uphill riding
- Rugged tubular frame designed for harsh road conditions
👎 Cons
- Basic feature set — no digital console or Bluetooth
- Design is utilitarian and lacks visual appeal
- Slightly heavier than 100cc rivals in the segment
#7 — Honda Shine 100 — The Silent Performer
Honda’s entry into the affordable 100cc segment, the Shine 100, brings the brand’s legendary engine refinement to the budget commuter space. The 99.7cc engine is silky smooth, virtually vibration-free, and refined enough that even after 10 hours of riding, engine fatigue is minimal. Honda engines are known for their longevity — many Honda commuters cross 1,50,000 km without a major engine overhaul, which is a significant advantage for delivery riders who rack up kilometres quickly.
The Shine 100 also benefits from Honda’s eSP (enhanced Smart Power) technology which optimises combustion for better efficiency and lower emissions. The ride quality is well-balanced, and the 10.5-litre fuel tank gives approximately 630 km of range. Honda’s service network in India is excellent, and the brand’s spare parts are reasonably priced.
Commercial Verdict: If engine smoothness and long-term reliability are your top priorities, the Honda Shine 100 is hard to beat. Honda engines are renowned for their longevity, making this an excellent long-term investment for full-time delivery work. The smooth engine reduces rider fatigue significantly over long shifts.
👍 Pros
- Honda engine refinement — smoothest in the 100cc segment
- Exceptional long-term engine durability — built to last 1.5 lakh+ km
- eSP technology optimises fuel efficiency and reduces emissions
- Well-balanced ride quality with good stability at speed
👎 Cons
- Slightly lower mileage than Platina 100 and TVS Sport
- Service costs marginally higher than Hero and Bajaj equivalents
- Limited feature set in the base variant
