‘It’s a game of fractions now, they’re all neck and neck, barreling away to the finish line, a mere few inches to decide who walks away triumphant…’
In the fiercely competitive 125cc segment, the TVS Raider, Hero Xtreme 125R, and Bajaj Pulsar N125 are three strong, sporty contenders vying for the top spot. Each bike comes with its strengths and drawbacks, making this contest both exciting and enlightening. Let’s break down the key aspects — performance, design, comfort, and features — to see which one comes out on top in this intense battle of the 125s.
When it comes to performance, speed and power are often the first things I would look at, and in this area, all three bikes deliver similar top speeds, though with slight variations. The Raider managed to hit a top speed of 111 kph, which is impressive for a bike in this category. Despite being slightly behind its competitors in terms of peak velocity, it still manages to feel the most energetic when you push it. It comes with an 11.2 bhp engine and weighs in at 123 kg. While not the most powerful on paper, it feels sharp and responsive throughout the rev range. This makes it the most enjoyable and engaging to ride in everyday traffic and other spirited escapades.
The Xtreme 125R did a 110 kph top speed, just 1 kph shy of the Raider. However, the real difference comes in the rideability. The Xtreme 125R occasionally suffers from erratic fueling, which can cause a distinct hesitation during acceleration. While this doesn’t significantly hinder its top speed, it can affect the riding experience at times. With a power output of 11.4 bhp and a heftier weight of 136 kg, it feels slightly more sluggish. There’s also the gearbox which feels a little clunky. This can be frustrating, especially on a bike that otherwise promises a lot.
The Pulsar N125 took the lead with a top speed of 112 kph, marginally faster than the Raider and Xtreme 125R. Technically, the N125 also has the best power-to weight ratio, thanks to its power output of 11.8 bhp and a weight of just 125 kg. While the N125 may have the edge in top-end speed, its initial acceleration feels slightly more lethargic than the Raider. However, once the revs build, the mid-range pull is powerful and consistent. Sure, these are all not breakneck speeds or anything, but for these bikes, they’re just as well.
On the design end, all three motorcycles give off a very sporty and fun vibe. This is seen most pronounced on the Pulsar N125, the design end, all three motorcycles give off a very sporty and fun vibe. This is seen most pronounced on the Pulsar N125, with its sharp edges and beefed-up front end. In that sense, the Raider does look a little more conventional than the other two, because the Xtreme 125R has also been given a pretty radical design when compared to other 125cc commuters. Probably because these are more than just commuters, and they’re surely a step above the rest.
All three bikes are agile and comfortable in their own right, but there are some distinctions when it comes to overall rideability. The Raider feels light and nimble, making it one of the most fun bikes to ride through city streets. Its handling is sharp, and it feels playful in the corners, but it can be a little less forgiving when the road gets rough. The brakes could do with a bit more bite, but they do their job for now.
The Xtreme 125R feels stable and planted, especially at higher speeds, and its heavier weight doesn’t make it feel any less agile when navigating corners and tight spots. The riding ergonomics are decent, with a more upright stance that is great for daily commuting. The Pulsar N125 truly shines in terms of comfort. Its suspension setup is softer than the other two, providing a smoother ride over bumps and uneven surfaces. The comfort factor on the N125 sets it apart from the Raider and Xtreme, particularly for riders who prioritise comfort over outright sportiness.
Fuel efficiency is another important factor in this segment, and the three bikes offer competitive figures from our tests. The TVS Raider delivers a fuel efficiency of 55 kpl, which is the highest in this comparison. Its relatively lightweight frame and efficient engine setup help keep running costs low, making it an ideal choice for commuters looking for an economical ride. The Hero Xtreme 125R and Bajaj Pulsar N125 both achieve 53 kpl, which is slightly lower than the Raider but still very respectable in this category. The slight difference in fuel efficiency doesn’t drastically affect the overall value proposition of either bike, though the Raider would pull ahead in terms of cost-effectiveness over time.
In terms of features, all three bikes come equipped with smartphone connectivity, allowing riders to access navigation and calls. However, the Hero Xtreme 125R stands out with its ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which is a significant safety feature that the other two bikes don’t get. The battle for supremacy in the 125cc segment is tight, and each bike has its own set of strengths. The Raider is the most engaging and energetic option, offering the best balance of performance and efficiency. It feels nimble and fun to ride, making it an excellent choice for urban commuting. The Xtreme 125R is the more stable and comfortable option, but it struggles with slight inconsistencies that can affect the overall rideability. It offers a great combination of features, including ABS, but the slightly heavier weight and occasional performance issues might detract from its overall appeal. The Pulsar N125 excels in comfort and midrange performance, making it the best choice for those seeking a smooth, punchy ride. Its best power to-weight ratio is a big plus, although its slightly unhurried low-end power delivery may not be for everyone.
Ultimately, the choice depends on what you value most — whether it’s the Raider’s energetic and agile nature, the Xtreme 125R’s comfort and safety features, or the Pulsar N125’s mid-range power and overall comfort. Each bike brings something unique to the table, but the TVS Raider edges ahead for its consistent performance, lower weight, and superior rideability for daily use. So that decides it then. The Raider remains undefeated until a new challenger emerges.
