Bajaj Pulsar N125 vs TVS Raider 125: Spec Comparison

When it comes to sporty commuters, the TVS Raider 125 was one of the flag bearers of this segment. It ushered in a sharp-looking, tech-reach proposal for anyone looking to upgrade from their 100-110 cc commuter bikes. However, there’s new competition in the market with the Bajaj Pulsar N125. Just like the Raider 125, the new baby Pulsar looks funky and aggressive, comes with a better and refined engine and looks a worthy upgrade too. But are its credentials enough to take that novelty away from the segment leader? Let’s find out

(Also Read: Bajaj Pulsar N125 vs Hero Xtreme 125R: Spec Comparison)

Bajaj Pulsar N125 vs Hero Xtreme 125R: Engine

With a slightly bigger bore and longer stroke, the Bajaj Pulsar N125 is more powerful of the lot. However, the TVS Raider 125 produces its peak power 1000 rpm earlier than the new baby Pulsar here, which should make it quicker, if not faster. Similarly, its torque output is marginally higher but produced at the same rpm. Therefore, both motorcycles should feel quick to ride, and just like how TVS claims that the Raider 125 can dash from 0-60 kmph in under 6 seconds, the Bajaj Pulsar N125 reserves the potential to do the same as well. 

Bajaj Pulsar N125 vs Hero Xtreme 125R: Frame, Suspension And Brakes

The underpinnings of both bikes are again equal with the same telescopic fork and monoshock setup. However, the TVS Raider 125 gives riders the benefit of a 5-step adjustability function with its rear suspension, something that is missing in the Pulsar N125. The brakes are again of the same size in both motorcycles, however, the TVS Raider 125 is also available with an all-drum brake configuration. Something that the Bajaj Pulsar N125 doesn’t even entertain as an option – thus keeping the safety quotient prime. 

Bajaj Pulsar N125 vs Hero Xtreme 125R: Dimension

While we don’t know the overall dimensions of the Bajaj Pulsar N125, however, it does get a shorter wheelbase which should make it more agile than the TVS Raider 125. However, the baby Pulsar is 2 kg heavier than the TVS Raider 125, despite the slightly smaller fuel tank.  And yet, the Pulsar has more ground clearance which leads to a taller seat height. Although, these minute differences don’t make much of a difference in the real world – so dimensionally, both the Bajaj Pulsar N125 and the TVS Raider 125 are parallelly similar. 

Bajaj Pulsar N125 vs Hero Xtreme 125R: Features

TVS has always been at the forefront of offering some of the most feature-rich bikes in the segment, and the same continues with the Raider 125. Right from that colourful digital instrument cluster that supports TVS SmartXonnect Bluetooth connectivity to its all-LED lighting system, and two ride modes – Eco and Power. Connectivity features like call/SMS, Notification alerts, and turn-by-turn navigation are also available in the mix, which helps further elevate the ownership experience in this digital age. 

In comparison, the Bajaj Pulsar N125 feels pretty basic. It does get an LED headlight and tail light, but the turn indicators are fitted with bulbs. The fully digital reverse LCD does get a Bluetooth connectivity option, but it supports only call/SMS alerts. Aside from displaying the speed, the instrument console does not even display a rev meter or a gear position indicator. The only relevant feature here would be the integrated starter generator, which allows for the silent start of the engine, but even that is reserved for the top-spec Bajaj Pulsar N125. So, feature-wise, it's the TVS Raider 125 that is ahead of the Bajaj Pulsar N125 by leaps and bounds.   

Bajaj Pulsar N125 vs Hero Xtreme 125R: Price 

The Bajaj Pulsar N125 starts from ₹94,707 with the base-spec models and tops out slightly shy of ₹1 lakh at ₹98,707. There are just two variants on offer here, and the difference between them lies with the instrument cluster. In comparison, the TVS Raider 125 is available in five different variants with the newly launched entry-level Drum variant starting from ₹84,868 and topping out at ₹1,04,330 ( all prices, ex-showroom, Delhi). 

So, while the TVS Raider 125 enjoys the benefit of having more options and better features. The Bajaj Pulsar N125 chooses the middle ground by offering a better engine and riding ergonomics. Coupled with those seven exciting cyberpunk-inspired colour options, as an overall package, it's the Bajaj Pulsar N125 that comes across as the more honest offering. As for how it rides? Check out our first ride review video below: