TVS has once again shaken up the commuter motorcycle segment with its aggressive and sporty Raider 125. With a stylish design, punchy performance, and class-leading features, this 125cc bike is more than just a daily ride. At a starting price of ₹95,219 (ex-showroom), it offers excellent value while returning an impressive 67 KMPL mileage, making it an ideal choice for urban riders and college-goers who crave thrill and efficiency in one package.
Let’s dive into all the details about this stunning machine.
Bold design
The TVS Raider 125 stands out with its unique and youthful styling. It looks nothing like a regular commuter bike. The sharp headlamp design with LED DRLs gives it an aggressive front look, while the sculpted fuel tank and edgy side panels enhance its muscular stance. It features split seats, a compact exhaust, and an overall design language that screams sporty intent. The visual appeal is aimed at younger riders who want performance without compromising on looks.
The bike is available in attractive colors like Fiery Yellow, Striking Red, Blazing Blue, and Wicked Black. Each shade complements the aggressive styling and makes the Raider pop on city roads.
Punchy engine
Powering the TVS Raider 125 is a 124.8cc air- and oil-cooled single-cylinder engine. It delivers 11.2 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm torque at 6,000 rpm. The engine is paired with a smooth 5-speed gearbox that offers responsive gear shifts and linear power delivery. This engine makes the Raider one of the most powerful bikes in its segment.
The throttle response is sharp, and it feels eager to accelerate both from a standstill and during overtakes. Whether you’re riding in city traffic or taking it for a weekend spin, the Raider never feels underpowered.
Fuel efficiency
One of the biggest highlights of the TVS Raider 125 is its 67 KMPL certified mileage. Thanks to TVS’s EcoThrust Fuel Injection technology, the bike delivers outstanding fuel economy without compromising on performance. This makes it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers looking to save on daily running costs.
Even in real-world conditions, users have reported mileage between 55 to 60 KMPL depending on riding style, traffic, and road conditions.
Feature-packed
TVS has loaded the Raider 125 with features that are rarely seen in this price bracket. The digital instrument cluster shows speed, gear position, fuel level, real-time and average mileage, trip meter, and more. It even has a start-stop system to save fuel in traffic conditions.
In the top variant, there’s also a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, voice assist, turn-by-turn navigation, and call alerts, which is a segment-first feature. The Raider also has two ride modes – Eco and Power, allowing you to prioritize fuel efficiency or performance as per your need.
Ride quality
The Raider 125 is built on a single cradle frame with telescopic front forks and a 5-step adjustable monoshock at the rear. This setup offers a good balance between comfort and handling. The suspension absorbs bumps and potholes easily while keeping the ride stable even at high speeds.
Its lightweight body (just 123 kg) and short turning radius make it ideal for city commuting, while the wide seat provides comfort during longer rides. Whether it’s office traffic or a weekend escape, the Raider keeps fatigue away.
Braking and safety
The bike comes equipped with a 240mm front disc or 130mm drum (depending on variant) and a 130mm rear drum brake. It gets a combi-braking system (CBS) which ensures better stability during sudden braking. Though it lacks ABS, the braking setup is confidence-inspiring for daily rides.
The Raider also features a side-stand engine cut-off feature, which adds an extra layer of safety. Reflectors and LED lighting increase night-time visibility.
Variants and pricing
TVS Raider 125 is available in three main variants:
- Drum Brake – ₹95,219 (ex-showroom)
- Disc Brake – ₹99,990 (ex-showroom)
- SmartXonnect (TFT screen) – ₹1,02,500 (ex-showroom)
The pricing may vary slightly depending on your state and dealer. Overall, all variants are competitively priced for what they offer. Even the base model gets most of the core features, making it a great deal.
Ideal for youth
With its modern design, peppy performance, and digital features, the TVS Raider 125 is clearly targeted at the younger generation. College students, first-time bike buyers, and working professionals will find it practical, stylish, and fun to ride.
It’s also easy to manage in traffic, offers good comfort for pillion riders, and doesn’t demand frequent refueling – everything that a young urban rider looks for.
Competition
The Raider 125 takes on strong competitors like the Honda SP125, Bajaj Pulsar 125, and Hero Glamour Xtec. However, in terms of looks, power output, features, and price, the Raider stands apart.
While the SP125 is smooth and refined, and the Pulsar 125 is known for its punchy engine, the Raider strikes a perfect balance of both. It also beats most rivals in terms of tech and modern styling.
User feedback
Riders across India have appreciated the Raider 125 for its performance and ride quality. Many owners report a great ownership experience with low maintenance costs. The service network of TVS is also wide and reliable, ensuring easy access to parts and support.
Most users agree that the Raider is one of the most value-for-money offerings in the 125cc segment. Its sporty character has helped it gain popularity among college students and young professionals alike.
Maintenance and warranty
TVS offers a standard warranty of 5 years or 60,000 km, whichever is earlier. The maintenance costs are fairly affordable, and the service intervals are convenient for working individuals. You can also opt for TVS’s extended warranty or AMC packages for added peace of mind.
Routine maintenance like oil changes, chain adjustments, and air filter cleaning are quick and inexpensive. Overall, the Raider doesn’t just save on fuel but also on service costs.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a commuter bike that doesn’t look boring, delivers thrilling performance, saves you money on fuel, and comes packed with features – the TVS Raider 125 is definitely worth considering. Its starting price of ₹95,219, stunning mileage of 67 KMPL, and sporty looks make it a complete package in the 125cc segment.
Whether you’re a daily commuter, a college student, or someone upgrading from a scooter, the Raider is built to deliver both excitement and economy.
