Bajaj Pulsar NS125 vs Hero Xtreme 125R vs TVS Raider 125 vs Honda SP125: Specification Comparison

The 125cc sporty motorcycle segment has new players entering the market in recent months as Hero launched the all-new Xtreme 125R this January and Bajaj updated the Pulsar NS125 last month. So, here’s how do they fare against the TVS Raider 125 and the Honda SP125, on paper:

Engine

The Bajaj NS125 is the most powerful bike compared to the rest and is also quite rev happy, in line with the Pulsar badge’s sporty heritage. The Hero Xtreme 125R and the TVS Raider 125 are very similar in terms of power produced by the engine and not that far off from the NS 125. 

The Raider 125 produces the most torque output and lower down the rev range compared to the other three. With the good bottom-end grunt, which should make everyday commutes a hassle-free affair.

Underpinnings

The TVS Raider pips its competition in the suspension department as it gets a gas-charged monoshock, which should offer more sophisticated damping as compared to conventional monoshock or twin shock absorbers. 

The Xtreme 125R is the only bike amongst all of them to get ABS which enhances the safety quotient considerably. Also, the wider 120-section rear tyre should provide better grip than skinnier ones. The 18-inch wheels on the SP125 will make it a bit harder to steer compared to the 17-inch units on the other three, but it should help in the overall ride quality. 

Dimensions

The Bajaj NS125’s longer wheelbase should make it more stable on the straights. But is the heaviest among the others in this lineup, which might hinder its manoeuvring capabilities in tight traffic scenarios. It has the biggest capacity fuel tank, meaning less stops at the petrol pumps. 

The TVS Raider and the Xtreme 125R get the highest ground clearance which will help in producing a more comfortable ride in our pothole-ridden and speed bumps filled Indian roads. The Raider 125 also gets the most accessible seat height. This along with its light kerb weight of 123kg, should make it a hoot to zip around the streets.

Features

The TVS Raider 125 takes the win here as it is the most feature-packed bike with a TFT instrument console in the SmartXonnect variant with Bluetooth connectivity for turn-by-turn navigation, weather updates, music control, incoming/missed call/ SMS alerts, voice assist, auto navigation to the nearest petrol pump, and even cricket updates and social media updates. Also, it gets two riding modes: Eco and Power. 

The Bajaj NS125 and the Hero Xtreme 125R both get an LCD instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity but no turn-by-turn navigation. The Honda SP125 doesn’t get Bluetooth connectivity at all. It gets a silent starter and LED lighting as well.

Price & Verdict

(all prices ex-showroom Delhi)

If we have to pick a winner, then the TVS Raider 125 will be the one because it offers quite a comprehensive package of sporty and tractable engine, sophisticated suspension setup, accessible ergonomics and an extensive list of features. Yes, in order to get the full range of Bluetooth connectivity features, you’d have to opt for the SmartXonnect variant, which is also the cosliest among the trio. But, it is only Rs 3,000 more dearer than the Pulsar NS125 and the Xtreme 125R’s ABS variant. The Xtreme 125R offers a good balance of performance, features and more importantly, safety in the form of ABS.

If you want a light, easy-to-handle 125cc commuter bike with a hint of sporty performance and a more basic list of features, then the Honda SP125 is a good option with its affordable price tag.