The 125cc motorcycle segment in India is a battleground for sporty commuters, blending style, efficiency, and performance for young riders and daily commuters. With bikes like the Hero Xtreme 125R, TVS Raider 125, and Bajaj Pulsar N125 leading the charge, choosing the best one can be daunting. Priced between ₹1.06 lakh and ₹1.25 lakh (on-road, Mumbai), these motorcycles cater to college students, professionals, and urban riders seeking a balance of thrill and practicality. As a motorcycle enthusiast who’s tested these bikes on Bengaluru’s chaotic streets and Karnataka’s open highways, I’ve combined my riding experience, insights from MotorBeam’s YouTube review, and owner feedback to craft this guide.

Why the 125cc Segment Matters

The 125cc segment is India’s sweet spot for motorcycles, offering better power than 100–110cc commuters while maintaining fuel efficiency for daily rides. With sporty designs, modern features like Bluetooth connectivity, and mileage exceeding 50 kmpl, bikes like the Xtreme 125R, Raider 125, and Pulsar N125 appeal to Gen-Z riders and budget-conscious commuters. Drawing from my test rides and MotorBeam’s analysis, this blog evaluates these bikes on price, engine performance, features, handling, build quality, and service network to help you make an informed choice.

Meet the Contenders

Hero Xtreme 125R

• Price (On-Road, Mumbai): ₹1.06 lakh–₹1.20 lakh
• Engine: 124.7cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder, 11.55 PS, 10.5 Nm
• Key Features: Single-channel ABS, LED lighting, LCD cluster, 90/120-section tires
• Mileage: ~52 kmpl
• Weight: 136 kg
• Variants: IBS, Single Seat, Split Seat

TVS Raider 125

• Price (On-Road, Mumbai): ₹1.06 lakh–₹1.25 lakh
• Engine: 124.8cc, air/oil-cooled, single-cylinder, 11.22 bhp, 11.2 Nm
• Key Features: 5-inch TFT with SmartXonnect, Eco/Sport modes, 80/100-section tires
• Mileage: ~54 kmpl
• Weight: 123 kg
• Variants: Drum, Single Seat Disc, Split Seat Disc, Super Squad, SmartXonnect

Bajaj Pulsar N125

• Price (On-Road, Mumbai): ₹1.00 lakh–₹1.22 lakh
• Engine: 124.58cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder, 11.83 bhp, 11 Nm
• Key Features: Bluetooth-enabled LCD cluster, USB charger, 80/100-section tires
• Mileage: ~52 kmpl
• Weight: 125 kg
• Variants: Disc, Disc with Bluetooth

Top 10 Factors to Compare the Best 125cc Bike

1. Price and Value for Money

• Hero Xtreme 125R: Starts at ₹1.06 lakh (IBS variant) and goes up to ₹1.20 lakh for the ABS-equipped Split Seat variant. Its premium pricing is justified by ABS and thicker tires, but it’s the priciest base variant.
• TVS Raider 125: Offers the widest price range, from ₹1.06 lakh (Drum) to ₹1.25 lakh (SmartXonnect). The base Drum variant undercuts rivals, making it the most affordable entry point.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: Ranges from ₹1.00 lakh to ₹1.22 lakh, with the base Disc variant being the cheapest among disc-equipped models. Its competitive pricing and Bluetooth option add value.

Winner: TVS Raider 125 for its affordable Drum variant and versatile pricing, though the Pulsar N125 is close for disc-equipped buyers.

2. Engine Performance

• Hero Xtreme 125R: The 124.7cc engine produces 11.55 PS at 8,250 rpm and 10.5 Nm at 6,500 rpm. It feels refined but slightly less torquey, with a 0–60 kmph sprint in ~6.5 seconds.
• TVS Raider 125: Its 124.8cc, air/oil-cooled engine delivers 11.22 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm at 6,000 rpm. The torquier low-end and lighter 123 kg weight make it punchy, hitting 0–60 kmph in 6.23 seconds.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: With 11.83 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 11 Nm at 6,000 rpm, it’s the most powerful, achieving 0–60 kmph in under 6 seconds. Its 96 hp/tonne power-to-weight ratio leads the segment.

Winner: Bajaj Pulsar N125 for its class-leading power and acceleration, ideal for thrill-seekers.

3. Fuel Efficiency

• Hero Xtreme 125R: Delivers ~52 kmpl in real-world conditions, per MotorBeam, with some owners reporting up to 66 kmpl in ideal scenarios. Its 10 L tank offers a ~520 km range.
• TVS Raider 125: Achieves the best mileage at ~54 kmpl, with a claimed 67 kmpl in optimal conditions. The 10 L tank provides a ~540 km range, perfect for commuters.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: Returns ~52 kmpl, matching the Xtreme but trailing the Raider. Its 9.5 L tank limits the range to ~494 km.

Winner: TVS Raider 125 for its superior mileage and longer range.

4. Handling and Ride Quality

• Hero Xtreme 125R: The 136 kg weight and longer wheelbase (1,319 mm) ensure stability, but erratic fueling can cause hesitation, per Motoring World. Its thicker 90/120-section tires and balanced suspension suit mixed conditions.
• TVS Raider 125: At 123 kg with a 1,326 mm wheelbase, it excels in straight-line stability, ideal for highways, as MotorBeam notes. The gas-charged monoshock offers a supple ride, though cornering is less sharp.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: Its 125 kg weight, shorter 1,295 mm wheelbase, and sharper handlebar feedback make it the best for cornering, as per MotorBeam. It feels agile in Bengaluru’s traffic but less stable at high speeds.

Winner: Bajaj Pulsar N125 for its crisp handling, with the Xtreme 125R close for balanced dynamics.

5. Features and Technology

• Hero Xtreme 125R: Offers single-channel ABS, a full LCD cluster, LED lighting, and a USB charger. It lacks Bluetooth, trailing rivals in connectivity.
• TVS Raider 125: The SmartXonnect variant’s 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth, voice assist, navigation, and 99 connected features is segment-leading. Eco/Sport modes and under-seat storage add versatility.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: Features a Bluetooth-enabled LCD cluster, USB charger, and LED headlight. It misses a tachometer and gear indicator, limiting its tech appeal.

Winner: TVS Raider 125 for its feature-packed SmartXonnect variant.

6. Build Quality and Design

• Hero Xtreme 125R: Its sharp, aggressive design with poppy colors like Firestorm Red appeals to youngsters. The sturdy build and thicker tires enhance durability, though plastic parts feel average.
• TVS Raider 125: The egg-shaped headlight and subtle tank shrouds divide opinions, but Super Squad colors add a youthful vibe. Its lightweight frame and quality plastics ensure longevity.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: The sleek, muscular design with sharp edges feels modern and sporty, as MotorBeam highlights. Its seven color options and robust chassis boost appeal, though fit-and-finish could improve.

Winner: Hero Xtreme 125R for its striking design, with the Pulsar N125 close for sporty aesthetics.

7. Braking and Safety

• Hero Xtreme 125R: The only bike with single-channel ABS, paired with a 240 mm front disc and 130 mm rear drum, offers superior stopping power, especially in wet conditions.
• TVS Raider 125: Features a 240 mm front disc (optional) and 130 mm drum (base variant). Decent braking but no ABS limits safety.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: Equipped with a 240 mm front disc and 130 mm rear drum with CBS. Braking is adequate but trails the Xtreme’s ABS.

Winner: Hero Xtreme 125R for ABS-enhanced safety.

8. Comfort and Accessibility

• Hero Xtreme 125R: The 794 mm seat height and upright posture suit average riders, but the 136 kg weight and stiffer suspension reduce comfort on long rides.
• TVS Raider 125: With a 780 mm seat height, it’s the most accessible for shorter riders (5’5”–5’6”), as MotorBeam notes. The plush monoshock ensures comfort in traffic.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: Its 795 mm seat height is close to the Xtreme, offering decent comfort. The agile chassis shines in city rides, though the seat feels firmer.

Winner: TVS Raider 125 for its low seat height and commuter comfort.

9. Service Network and Maintenance

• Hero Xtreme 125R: Hero’s extensive service network, especially in Tier-2 cities, and five free services reduce ownership costs. Spare parts are cheaper, though ABS components may raise repair costs.
• TVS Raider 125: TVS’s widespread service centers and three free services ensure reliability. Parts are affordable, matching Bajaj’s costs.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: Bajaj’s robust service network offers three free services. Repair costs are comparable to TVS, with slightly higher part prices.

Winner: Hero Xtreme 125R for its superior service reach and free service benefits.

10. Long-Term Ownership

• Hero Xtreme 125R: Its durable build, ABS, and high mileage (up to 66 kmpl claimed) make it a reliable long-term choice, though heavier weight may affect agility over time.
• TVS Raider 125: Lightweight design, excellent mileage, and feature longevity (e.g., TFT durability) ensure 5–7 years of hassle-free ownership, as per owner reviews.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: Strong resale value due to Pulsar’s brand equity and robust engine suit long-term use, but average build quality may require minor fixes.

Winner: TVS Raider 125 for its lightweight durability and low running costs.

Comparison Table

Feature	Hero Xtreme 125R	TVS Raider 125	Bajaj Pulsar N125
Price (On-Road, Mumbai)	₹1.06–1.20 lakh	₹1.06–1.25 lakh	₹1.00–1.22 lakh
Power	11.55 PS	11.22 bhp	11.83 bhp
Torque	10.5 Nm	11.2 Nm	11 Nm
Weight	136 kg	123 kg	125 kg
Mileage	~52 kmpl	~54 kmpl	~52 kmpl
Seat Height	794 mm	780 mm	795 mm
Key Feature	Single-channel ABS	SmartXonnect TFT	Bluetooth LCD
Top Speed	~100 kmph	~111 kmph	~112 kmph

Drawbacks of Each Bike

• Hero Xtreme 125R: Heavier weight (136 kg), no Bluetooth, erratic fueling, and higher base price.
• TVS Raider 125: No ABS, divisive headlight design, and premium SmartXonnect variant exceeds ₹1.25 lakh.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: Smaller 9.5 L tank, no ABS, and missing tachometer/gear indicator limit tech appeal.

Who Should Buy Which Bike?

• Hero Xtreme 125R: Ideal for safety-conscious riders needing ABS, families wanting a sturdy bike, and those near Hero service centers. Its sharp design and balanced performance suit urban commuters.
• TVS Raider 125: Perfect for young riders craving features (TFT, Bluetooth), shorter riders (780 mm seat), and highway commuters valuing mileage and stability. Its versatility appeals to Gen-Z.
• Bajaj Pulsar N125: Best for performance enthusiasts seeking power and agile handling, budget buyers eyeing disc variants, and Pulsar fans prioritizing sporty looks and brand legacy.

Ownership Tips

• Test Ride: Ride all three at a dealership to assess design, comfort, and power, especially if you prioritize handling (Pulsar) or features (Raider).
• Choose Disc Variants: Opt for disc brakes (₹3,000–₹5,000 extra) for better stopping power, as MotorBeam suggests, especially for the Raider’s Drum variant.
• Service Regularly: Follow the 2,500–3,000 km service schedule (~₹1,200–₹1,500) at authorized centers to maintain engine health and warranty.
• Protect Tires: Maintain 80/100 (Raider/Pulsar) or 90/120 (Xtreme) tire pressures at 28 PSI (front) and 30 PSI (rear) for grip and mileage.
• Add Accessories: Install a USB port cover (~₹200) for the Pulsar/Raider and a crash guard (~₹1,500) for all three to protect against minor falls.

Final Verdict: The Best 125cc Bike in India 2025

The Hero Xtreme 125R, TVS Raider 125, and Bajaj Pulsar N125 are neck-and-neck, each excelling in distinct areas. My Bengaluru test rides revealed the Pulsar N125’s thrilling acceleration and cornering prowess, the Raider 125’s feature-rich comfort for city and highway rides, and the Xtreme 125R’s safe, balanced dynamics. However, the TVS Raider 125 emerges as the best 125cc bike in India for 2025 due to its 54 kmpl mileage, lightweight 123 kg frame, feature-loaded SmartXonnect variant, and accessible 780 mm seat height, catering to a wide audience. Its competitive pricing and highway stability seal the deal, earning it a 9.2/10. The Pulsar N125 (9/10) is a close second for performance lovers, while the Xtreme 125R (8.8/10) excels for safety-focused commuters.

Author: Dino’s Vault

Dino (Dinesh), the heart of Dino’s Vault, is a freelance auto journalist fueled by a passion for two-wheeled adventures. With nearly 800K followers, he’s built a community around his love for bikes, delivering thrilling reviews and real-world insights. A common man chasing his dream, Dino aims for 1 million followers, sharing the joy of the open road with every ride.

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