KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Raider 125 features a disc brake at the front, a drum brake at the rear, and uses monoshock suspension.
- Riders can easily achieve a mileage of over 55 km/l with the Raider 125.
- The TVS Raider 125 does not come with single-channel ABS, unlike its rival, the Hero Xtreme 125, which offers it.
The TVS Raider 125 is one of the best-selling bikes in the country and a significant step up in the commuter bike segment. Launched in 2021, the Raider 125 has surpassed 1 million units sold in India. The target audience for this bike includes people who typically opt for the Hero Splendor Plus or Honda SP but are now looking for something more dynamic, and it seems to check all their boxes. But what does it offer that has so many people buying it? Let's find out today. Also, make sure to join 91Wheels WhatsApp Channel to never miss out on automotive updates.
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TVS Raider 125 Key Features
TFT Screen
The TVS Raider 125 comes with a TFT display that includes features like SmartXonnect, which provides information such as turn-by-turn navigation, vehicle details, range, and more. Speaking of the screen, the resolution is perfect, the quality is fantastic, and over time, customers won't get bored of it - that's what makes it special.
Variants Availabe:
The TFT screen with the SmartXonnect feature is available only in the iGo (Rs 98,389) and SX (Rs 104,330) variants. All other variants of TVS Raider 125 get LCD screen with ride modes.
Competitors with the Same Feature:
- Bajaj Pulsar N125 - The Pulsar N125 is a newly launched 125cc motorcycle, but it only comes with an LCD screen and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Hero Xtreme 125R - Again, it is one of the best 125cc bikes, which comes with an LCD screen, but not a TFT screen.
Ride Modes
This bike offers two modes: Eco and Power. As the name suggests, Eco mode ensures maximum mileage and provides the most comfortable ride by maintaining a smooth throttle response. The second mode, Power, allows the rider to fully enjoy the 11 PS of this engine, and the top speed of 100 km/h can only be achieved in this mode.
Variants Availabe:
These two ride modes are available on every variant of the TVS Raider 125, which is a great feature.
Competitors with the Same Feature:
- Bajaj Pulsar N125 - The Pulsar N125 does not feature any ride modes, nor does it show gear shift indicator.
- Hero Xtreme 125R - No, ride modes on Xtreme either.
USB Socket
To charge your smartphones on the go, TVS has provided a USB socket conveniently located in the middle. This feature has become essential in modern motorcycles, as people often use their smartphones mounted on holders. While many riders used to add this feature aftermarket, companies are now including it as standard equipment.
Variants Availabe:
All variants of TVS Raider 125 are equipped with a USB socket.
Competitors with the Same Feature:
Both of its competitors come with a USB socket on every model.
LED DRLs And Three Sections LED
The front face features a prominent headlight setup with funky, C-shaped LED DRLs. Between these DRLs, TVS has provided two sections that emit low beam light, and at the bottom, there's another section for the high beam. The design is crafted to capture attention. The blinkers are halogen, while the tail light is LED.
Variants Availabe:
Every variant of TVS Raider 125 only comes LED lights, and DRLs.
Competitors with the Same Feature:
- Bajaj Pulsar N125 - The Pulsar N125 2nd variant gets all LED headlamps, but there are no DRLs on this bike.
- Hero Xtreme 125R - Hero has equipped the Xtreme 125R with an all-LED setup, including a projector headlamp.
Modern Design
The best part about this motorcycle is that it is a good-looking commuter bike, and from any angle, it doesnt look boring, unlike many other commuter bikes. The dual-tone treatment extending to the exhaust and the cowl in body color add to its sporty nature. Another exciting feature is the range of color options, which are:
- Fiery Yellow
- Forza Blue
- Wicked Black
- Blazing Blue
- Striking Red
Additionally, TVS has launched two special editions in the SSE variant: the Iron Man edition and the Black Panther edition. These models feature unique graphics that make the bike look even more striking.
Under Seat Storage
The rear seat can be quickly removed, providing enough space to store your smartphone, wallet, and some keys. It comes in handy during rainy weather or when youre wearing trousers without pockets. In these cases, this storage will be your savior. Moreover, the Raider offers two seat options: a split seat and a single long seat.
Variants Availabe:
The TVS Raider 125 with a split seat is a separate variant that costs Rs 97,709 ex-showroom. Every trim after this also features a split seat.
Competitors with the Same Feature:
- Bajaj Pulsar N125 - At the moment, there is no information on whether the new Pulsar N125 comes with under-seat storage, but it does have a split seat, so it might.
- Hero Xtreme 125R - Same is the case with Xtreme 125R, there is no offical confirmation.
Features Missing
- At a price of Rs 1.04 lakh ex-showroom for the top-of-the-line SX, TVS should have offered single-channel ABS, especially since the Hero Xtreme 125R provides it for just Rs 99,500.
Comparison with Competitors
Feature | TVS Raider 125 | Bajaj Pulsar N125 | Hero Xtreme 125R |
TFT Screen | Yes | No | No |
Ride Modes | Yes | No | No |
USB Socket | Yes | Yes | Yes |
LED Lights | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Under Seat Storage | Yes | No | No |
Price
In total, there are four variants of this bike: Single Seat, Split Seat, SSE, and SX. The cheapest variant costs Rs 95,439 before taxes, while the SX costs Rs 103,830, according to the official TVS site. The difference between the Split Seat and Single Seat variants is that the former features a basic digital display that shows vehicle speed, total mileage, fuel capacity, and vehicle check signs. The other two variants come with a TFT display and additional color options.
Also Read: Hero Xtreme 125R Pros And Cons. What Makes It An Anomaly? Find Out
Verdict
TVS's attempt to shake up the commuter bike segment has turned out to be successful, with more than 1 million units purchased by Indians. From front to back, everything about this bike is outstanding, and the engine has a punch that invites occasional spirited riding. Additionally, it provides a mileage of around 60 kmpl, and with all that technology, it makes for a must-have motorcycle in your home.