Hero Xtreme 125R vs Rivals: Raider 125, Pulsar NS125 Compared

Within the premium 125cc motorcycle segment, TVS used to have an absolute monopoly with Raider 125. Rightfully so as it is a tech-loaded motorcycle with a no-nonsense approach. Hero MotoCorp has entered the chat with its newly launched Xtreme 125R. So, a natural comparison was evident.

Hero Xtreme 125R VS Rivals Compared

But this comparison wouldn’t make sense without the OG premium 125cc motorcycle, which is Pulsar NS125. Before starting, we must acknowledge how well Pulsar NS125 has established relevancy even today with just a few sticker changes since inception. NS160 is like a sexy grandpa. Anil Kapoor, if we may. However, all eyes are currently on the newest kid on the block, Hero Xtreme 125R. It is easily the sportiest motorcycle in this comparo. This way, Xtreme 125R offers more street presence than the other two. Where powertrains are concerned, all of them have a single-cylinder engine that displace close to 125cc. TVS Raider is the only one to get a 3V head and is oil-cooled with a clever implementation that doesn’t need an active cooling system. Pulsar NS125 has a 4V head too. Power and torque figures are almost the same and all contenders get a 5-speed gearbox.
 

Design and Aesthetics

The design of a motorcycle plays a pivotal role in attracting riders, and in this segment, visual appeal is often a deciding factor. On the other hand, the Bajaj Raider 125 embraces a bold and modern design language.

Performance Specifications

Under the hood, the performance of these bikes takes center stage. The Hero Xtreme 125R is powered by a refined 125cc air-cooled engine that delivers a healthy balance of power and fuel efficiency. The Bajaj Raider 125 is equipped with a 125cc DTS-i engine, designed to offer a peppy ride with a good mix of power and efficiency. The Pulsar NS125, inspired by the Pulsar legacy, packs a 125cc engine with features like 4-valve technology for enhanced combustion efficiency.

Ride and Handling

The ride quality and handling characteristics are paramount in the 125cc segment, where motorcycles often serve as daily commuters. The Hero Xtreme 125R features a diamond-type chassis for a stable and balanced ride. The telescopic front forks and a 5-step adjustable rear suspension aim to provide a comfortable and controlled ride over varying terrains. Bajaj's Raider 125 employs a perimeter frame for optimal rigidity and handling. The front telescopic forks and a mono-shock suspension at the rear are designed to offer a comfortable ride, making it suitable for both city commutes and occasional highway journeys. The Pulsar NS125, known for its sporty DNA, comes equipped with a perimeter frame as well.

Features and Technology

The Hero Xtreme 125R boasts an advanced digital-analog instrument cluster with features like a gear position indicator, fuel efficiency display, and a side-stand indicator. The Bajaj Raider 125 features a semi-digital instrument cluster that includes a digital speedometer and an analog tachometer. Bajaj's commitment to safety is evident with the presence of features like CBS (Combined Braking System), ensuring a controlled and safe braking experience. The Pulsar NS125 embraces a digital instrument cluster with a sporty design. Bajaj has equipped the NS125 with features like a perimeter frame for enhanced stability and a nitrox-gas charged rear suspension for improved ride comfort.

Pricing and Value for Money

Pricing is a critical factor in the purchase decision, and riders often seek a motorcycle that offers the best value for money. The Pulsar NS125, positioned as a sportier option in the segment, offers a slightly premium price point.

Key Features

Hero Xtreme 125R

1. Sporty Design: The Hero Xtreme 125R boasts a sporty and muscular design with sharp lines, a sleek profile, and stylish alloy wheels. The aggressive stance sets it apart in the 125cc segment.
2. Efficient Performance: Powered by a refined 125cc air-cooled engine, the Xtreme 125R offers a perfect blend of power and fuel efficiency. It is designed for smooth acceleration and is well-suited for city commuting.
3. Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster: The advanced digital-analog instrument cluster provides essential information, including a gear position indicator, fuel efficiency display, and a side-stand indicator.
4. i3S Technology: Hero's i3S technology incorporates idle stop-start functionality, contributing to fuel savings in city traffic by automatically turning off the engine when idle.
5. Comfortable Ride: The diamond-type chassis, telescopic front forks, and 5-step adjustable rear suspension ensure a stable and balanced ride. The bike is designed to handle varying terrains with ease.
6. Competitive Pricing: Positioned as a commuter with a sporty edge, the Hero Xtreme 125R comes with a competitive price tag, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious riders.

Bajaj Raider 125

1. Modern Design Language: The Bajaj Raider 125 embraces a bold and modern design with unique LED DRLs, a muscular tank, and dual-tone body graphics, making it a head-turner on the road.
2. DTS-i Engine Technology: Equipped with a 125cc DTS-i engine, the Raider 125 promises a spirited ride with improved combustion efficiency, better fuel economy, and a lively riding experience.
3. Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster: The semi-digital instrument cluster features a digital speedometer and an analog tachometer. It provides essential information to the rider.
4. Safety Features: Bajaj Raider 125 prioritizes safety with features like CBS (Combined Braking System), ensuring a controlled and safe braking experience for the rider.
5. Perimeter Frame: The bike employs a perimeter frame for optimal rigidity and handling, offering riders a stable and comfortable ride for both city commutes and highway journeys.
6. Value for Money: Bajaj's commitment to offering value for money motorcycles strengthens the Raider 125's appeal in the market, providing a balance between performance and affordability.

Pulsar NS125

1. Sporty Design Elements: The Pulsar NS125 carries the sporty DNA of its larger siblings with features like a semi-faired design, twin pilot lamps, and a muscular fuel tank, offering a distinctive and dynamic appearance.
2. 4-Valve Technology: The 125cc engine of the Pulsar NS125 features 4-valve technology, contributing to enhanced combustion efficiency for a more powerful and agile riding experience.
3. Digital Instrument Cluster: The sporty design is complemented by a digital instrument cluster, providing essential information to the rider with a dynamic and modern layout.
4. Perimeter Frame for Stability: Similar to its larger counterparts, the NS125 employs a perimeter frame for enhanced stability and control during spirited rides, ensuring a confident and controlled riding experience.
5. Nitrox-Gas Charged Rear Suspension: The bike features a Nitrox-gas charged rear suspension, enhancing ride comfort and stability over varying terrains.
6. Performance-Oriented Design: Positioned as a sportier option in the segment, the Pulsar NS125 offers a slightly premium price point, reflecting its performance-oriented design and features.

These features highlight the unique characteristics of each motorcycle, catering to the diverse preferences and needs of riders in the competitive 125cc segment. Riders can choose based on factors such as design aesthetics, performance capabilities, technology features, and budget considerations.

?As Raider 125 is more bang for the buck, along with features to make riding in big cities convenient, I asked him to look at it once before buying. He replied that he wouldn’t consider Raider as it split opinions on headlight design. The new design that Hero is bringing, is likely to leave its mark on buyers and seems to be hard to shake off, even with a much fatter brochure.