Reasons To Buy The TVS Raider 125 This Diwali

The tvs raider redefined what buyers can expect from a 125cc commuter motorcycle. It blends sporty looks with a feature-rich package and impressive mileage. However, now there are many rivals offering exciting packages - be it features or performance, so potential buyers are carefully weighing their options this festive season. Here are five key reasons why the Raider 125 stands out in its segment.

The Feature Set That Broke The 125cc Mould

The top-spec TVS Raider 125 TFT Dual Disc variant is equipped with a 5-inch full-colour TFT console, a feature typically found on more premium motorcycles. This system includes TVS' SmartXonnect technology, offering several connected features such as turn-by-turn navigation, call and SMS alerts, voice assistance, and even a low-fuel auto-navigation-to-pump. For daily commuters, this level of connectivity adds significant convenience. It was one of the very few bikes in its segment that offered this level of connectivity when it was launched. There’s also an idle start-stop tech to conserve fuel, and a silent starter with a mild-hybrid assist on select variants.  

More importantly, the Raider 125 was the first bike in its segment to feature riding modes: Eco for calm and efficient riding, and Power for peppy performance. 

Lower variants feature a colour LCD screen that still provides essential information like gear position, range, and trip meters. All variants include practical aids like a side-stand engine cut-off and a USB charging port.

Impressive Real-World Mileage And Range 

At the heart of the Raider 125 is a 124.8cc, air-and-oil-cooled, 3-valve engine that produces 11.38PS and 11.2Nm, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. In our tests, it returned 71.94kmpl in the city and 65.44kmpl on the highway — numbers that turn the Raider 125's 10-litre tank from a weakness into a non-issue for daily running. 

The engine is properly punchy, especially with its light clutch and smooth gearshifts. While it cruises comfortably between 80-90kmph, it feels strained above 95kmph, making it best suited for city riding and occasional short highway trips. 

Brakes That Match The Peppy Performance

The top variants, SXC DD and TFT DD, come with a 240mm front disc brake and a rear disc brake. This setup is supported by single-channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for the front wheel.

Lower variants are equipped with drum brakes at both ends, linked by a combined braking system. We found the disc brake setup offers a progressive feel, providing good feedback to the rider, though the rear brake lacks bite during emergency or panic stops. We would definitely recommend the ABS variant as it makes panic brakes a lot more confidence-inspiring.

Looks And Build That Punch Above The Price

The Raider 125 looks more expensive than it is, thanks to its Transformer-like LED headlamp, edgy DRLs and blacked-out underpinnings and exhaust. It comes in 12 colours, including the Marvel Super Squad Editions (Iron Man, Black Panther, Deadpool and Wolverine) and the new Doctor Doom-inspired Spectral Green. 

As for the build quality,  the plastics, panel gaps, switchgear and levers are all top notch. The one nitpick is that the rear section could have been sleeker.

Price and Variants

The Verdict

The TVS Raider 125 is a strong festive-season pick for anyone who wants a feature-rich 125cc bike with good performance as well as fantastic mileage. The best variant in our opinion is the SXC Dual Disc as it offers great value for money, especially with the ABS. The top-end variant only adds a TFT screen, which isn’t a huge upgrade as such as it still offers turn-by-turn navigation. If you’re set on buying one, you might get festive offers, depending on the dealership you visit or if TVS runs a nation-wide campaign.