The 125cc bike market in India is crowded with plain, no-nonsense commuters. But every once in a while, a brand steps up and dares to change the game. Enter the TVS Raider 125 – a bike that doesn’t just meet expectations; it crushes them with style, features, and performance.
TVS hasn’t just made another commuter here. The Raider 125 is bold, sporty, high-tech, and surprisingly practical. It’s built to win the hearts of college students, young professionals, and even family riders who want a touch of style and substance without stretching their budget.
TVS Raider 125: Quick Overview
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Model Name | TVS Raider 125 |
Engine | 124.8cc, 3-valve, air-oil cooled |
Power Output | 11.2 bhp @ 7,500 rpm |
Torque | 11.2 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
Transmission | 5-speed manual |
Top Speed | Approx. 99 km/h |
Mileage (Claimed) | Up to 67 km/l |
SmartXonnect | Yes (in top variant) |
Starting Price | ₹95,219 (ex-showroom) |
Top Variant Price | ₹1.03 Lakh approx. (ex-showroom) |
Design That Turns Heads
Let’s be honest—most 125cc bikes look dull. But the TVS Raider 125 brings a design that would fit right into a sportbike lineup.
- The T-shaped LED headlamp with DRLs gives it an aggressive front profile.
- The muscular fuel tank is sculpted to look sharp and sporty.
- Split seats, engine cowl, short tail fender, and sharp LED tail-lamps make the Raider look much more premium than any typical commuter.
- Add in body-colored grab rails, alloy wheels, and bold graphics, and you have a head-turner even at traffic signals.
For those who ride to college, work, or even weekend meets, the Raider 125 makes a strong visual statement without being flashy.
Engine & Performance: Power Meets Practicality
The 124.8cc, 3-valve engine in the TVS Raider 125 is tuned not just for fuel efficiency but for peppy, enjoyable performance.
- It delivers 11.2 bhp and 11.2 Nm, putting it at the top end of the 125cc performance scale.
- The engine is air and oil-cooled, making it more efficient and better at heat management.
- Acceleration is brisk, gear shifts are smooth, and the 5-speed gearbox helps maintain good highway speeds too.
The 3-valve setup is a rare feature in this segment and gives the Raider better breathing room, resulting in a zippy ride that’s great for city as well as occasional highway use.
Ride, Comfort & Handling
TVS has clearly paid attention to the rider’s experience.
- The telescopic front forks and monoshock rear suspension provide a plush and balanced ride.
- Wide and well-padded seats make it comfortable for both the rider and pillion.
- With just 123 kg kerb weight, the bike feels nimble in traffic and very easy to maneuver.
- 180 mm ground clearance is more than enough for Indian roads and speed breakers.
Whether you’re weaving through city traffic or taking a quick weekend trip, the Raider’s ride quality is genuinely impressive.
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Features & SmartXonnect Tech: Best in Class
This is where the TVS Raider 125 wipes out the competition. It’s not just about speed and looks—it’s also about smart features.
- A fully digital LCD cluster shows gear position, real-time mileage, top speed recorded, trip meters, and more.
- The SmartXonnect variant adds Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and voice assistance.
- Two riding modes – Eco and Power – allow you to tune the bike to your preference.
- And yes, there’s even under-seat storage – a rare and useful touch in any motorcycle.
For a bike that starts under ₹1 lakh, this feature list is just unbeatable.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is one of the key reasons why most buyers consider the 125cc segment—and the Raider excels here too.
- Claimed mileage: Up to 67 km/l (under test conditions)
- Real-world mileage: Users report 55–60 km/l, depending on riding style and traffic.
- With a 10-liter tank, the bike easily delivers over 500 km on a full tank.
For office goers and daily riders, the Raider 125 keeps running costs low without sacrificing performance.
Price & Variants Breakdown
TVS Raider 125 is available in three key variants:
Variant | Key Features | Price (Ex-showroom) |
---|---|---|
Raider Drum | Drum brakes, basic digital display | ₹95,219 |
Raider Disc | Front disc brake, upgraded cluster | ₹99,990 |
Raider SmartXonnect | Bluetooth, Navigation, Voice Assist | ₹1.03 lakh approx. |
For ₹95K to ₹1.03L, you’re getting a motorcycle that delivers more than what it charges.
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FAQs About TVS Raider 125
Q1. Is TVS Raider 125 suitable for long rides?
Yes, it offers good comfort, suspension, and power for short to medium highway trips.
Q2. Can I use it for family commuting?
Absolutely. The seat is comfortable, mileage is great, and maintenance costs are low.
Q3. Does it have ABS?
No, it comes with CBS (Combined Braking System), which is standard for bikes in this class.
Q4. Is the SmartXonnect version worth the premium?
Yes, especially if you love smart tech like navigation and call alerts. It adds significant value.
Q5. How does it compare to the Honda SP125 or Bajaj Pulsar 125?
TVS Raider beats both in design, performance, features, and tech.
Final Verdict: Why TVS Raider 125 Is a Game-Changer
The TVS Raider 125 is easily one of the most exciting 125cc bikes in India today. It doesn’t compromise—you get performance, tech, comfort, and style, all at a very competitive price. TVS has built a product that doesn’t just compete—it dominates the segment.
If you want a bike that’s as smart as it is sporty, the TVS Raider 125 deserves your attention. It’s the perfect blend of fun and function—and it might just be the best 125cc motorcycle in India right now.