The Bajaj Pulsar 125 and the TVS Raider 125. Both bikes offer a solid blend of power, mileage, and modern features, making them popular choices among young riders and daily commuters alike.

Let’s dive deep into a head-to-head comparison to see which one stands out in this competitive 125cc segment.

Design and Styling

TVS Raider:
The Raider 125 has completely redefined the look and feel of the 125cc segment. With aggressive styling, sharp tank extensions, a unique LED headlamp setup, and a sporty stance, the Raider feels more like a 150cc bike in appearance. The digital instrument cluster, sculpted seat, and split seat design (in some variants) give it a premium and youthful vibe.

Pulsar 125:
The Pulsar 125 borrows its looks from the bigger Pulsar siblings. It maintains the iconic design language that Bajaj fans love — muscular tank, wolf-eye headlamps, and sporty graphics. While not as futuristic-looking as the Raider, it does offer a mature and muscular design that appeals to a wide audience.

Winner: TVS Raider – for its bold, modern, and aggressive design.

Engine and Performance

Pulsar 125:
Powered by a 124.4cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine producing 11.8 PS of power and 10.8 Nm of torque, the Pulsar 125 offers smooth and linear acceleration. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox and retains Bajaj’s trusted DTS-i technology, which ensures good performance and reliability.

TVS Raider:
The Raider is equipped with a 124.8cc air- and oil-cooled engine delivering 11.38 PS and 11.2 Nm of torque. What sets it apart is its refined engine, peppy throttle response, and the inclusion of two ride modes – Power and Eco – a feature unheard of in this segment. It also boasts impressive mid-range performance and nimble handling, making it ideal for both city commutes and weekend rides.

Winner: TVS Raider – for its refined engine and innovative ride modes.

Ride and Handling

Pulsar 125:
Built on a double-cradle chassis, the Pulsar 125 offers a stable and planted ride. The suspension setup is balanced, making it suitable for Indian roads. However, it leans slightly towards comfort rather than sharp handling.

TVS Raider:
With a well-engineered chassis and a lighter kerb weight, the Raider feels more agile and responsive in city traffic. The suspension is tuned to offer a mix of comfort and sportiness, and the ergonomics support a more engaging ride.

Winner: TVS Raider – for better agility and modern chassis dynamics.

Features and Technology

TVS Raider:
This is where the Raider shines. It comes with a digital instrument cluster (fully digital or with Bluetooth in the top variant), gear position indicator, ride modes, LED lighting, and optional smartphone connectivity. These features make it the most tech-savvy bike in its class.

Pulsar 125:
The Pulsar sticks to a semi-digital instrument cluster and basic features. While it’s functional and reliable, it lacks the tech appeal that modern-day buyers expect.

Winner: TVS Raider – hands down for its feature-packed offering.

Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

Both bikes offer excellent mileage, which is a critical factor for Indian buyers.

• Pulsar 125: Claimed mileage of around 50-55 kmpl.
• TVS Raider: Real-world mileage of about 55-60 kmpl, depending on riding conditions and modes used.

Winner: TVS Raider – slightly better mileage and Eco mode support fuel-saving rides.

Price and Variants

• Pulsar 125: Priced between ₹82,000 to ₹94,000 (ex-showroom) depending on the variant (drum/disc, split seat).
• TVS Raider: Priced between ₹95,000 to ₹1,03,000 (ex-showroom), slightly higher but justified due to features.

Winner: Pulsar 125 – for offering good value at a lower starting price.

Final Verdict

If you are looking for a reliable, no-nonsense commuter with a proven track record, the Pulsar 125 is a solid choice. It’s well-suited for those who prefer a familiar design, sturdy build, and a budget-friendly entry into the Pulsar family.

However, if you want a modern, stylish, and feature-loaded motorcycle that doesn’t compromise on performance, the TVS Raider 125 is the clear winner. It brings a fresh perspective to the 125cc segment with its sporty styling, advanced features, and ride modes.