From conservative commuters in India’s 125cc segment, TVS Raider125 is a breath of fresh air as it wraps sporty fun into everyday practicality.
This is not just some fuel-efficient everyman nor is it the upcoming Norwegian-market-forced performance demonstration of a motorcycle built just to cater young Indian riders.
First Impressions — Aggresive but Functional Design
As soon as you get into the Raider 125 it lays dynamic design language because of it. Available in ‘premium big-bike’ standard, with its aggressive duo pod headlamp and very classy body lines coupled with 795mm topbar gets most hand riders in no time. If you think about that split-style seat and it’s form, well-styled as it is makes good functional use of the curves with surprising comfort over hour-long commutes.
Riding position: perfect blend of sporty and practical Ridetech has positioned them to be sporty yet practicalthe footpegs are slightly rear-set which obligates you with an effective riding lane at the moment you desire but they are still comfortable for daily use. The grab rails are even better; impressive integration into the overall design and yet functional for pillion rider too.
Well Engineered Powertrain Performance
At the core of thing being TVS 124. 1 cc single engine making 11. 2kW (15HP) and 11. 2Nm operating to what very few understand is only a piece of the puzzle. The one trick pony, as it were, is its free revving- a torquey beast with a beautiful march that excites itself up as the tach spins higher. The 5 speed box does crisp short shifting that promotes aggressive riding.
Special mentions for the power delivery. Sure, Raider is reasonably able to haul around town on the lower torque end of things, but it perks up past 5,000 RPM and you need just shake that bike to make ordinary commutes entertaining.
Three riding modes (Eco, Power and Urban ) are included in the features to offer flexibility, but without totally frightening the rider as you progress level up.
Chassis Dynamics: A Big Happy
Reasons for the surprising agility of a commuter bike? The tubular frame and 5-step preload-adjustable rear monoshock of Raider brings a playful touch to a riding dynamics oriented SXS like this. The grip of the 17-inch aluminium wheels coupled with a good-sized MRF tire inspires confidence during bends and the 135mm of ground clearance does a very competent job on Indian roads.
One of the things that really stand out is how R123kg kerb weight make the Raider almost magnetic in city traffic, the tiniest 2.1m turning circle and well balanced steering handle makes running through traffic crawl lane drafting like never before, besides the suspension absorbs more road forces then most larger cars!
Ownership Economics That Matter
Raider 125 keeps its promises well
- 60-65 kmpl actual reg fuel efficiency
- 10,000 km service intervals
- Low cost of spare parts from TVS extensive network
- 5-year standard warranty( extendable to 7 years)****
Running costs of the Raider for a 1,500 km rider comes to about ₹1.20-1.50 per km (depending on fuel prices and other factors), which makes it one of quickest performance oriented-bikes in terms of cost too.
Thoughtful Add-ons You Will Like
Well by genuinely helpful tech, I mean TVS has at-least loaded the Raider with:
- Full Digital Instrument Cluster, Supports Bluetooth
- Glide Through Traffic assistance for easy low-speed
- USB Charging Port underneath
- The split LED headlamps with LED DRLs
- Split Engine Cut-off Amid Side-stand for better safety
These aren’t anything special – each one simply adds to the riding experience and does not complicate matters.
Review: A True Lesson in Reality with How Practical Performance Should Be, TheTVS Raider 125
TVS Raider 125 even succeeds by never offering either compassion towards riders or requiring them prefer excitement over basic needs. In an industry where most bike makers need to dance to the “safety” tune, the Raider firmly keeps its ear open to stay focused on being a fun but affordable transport machine aimed at the young riders of India.
Here we are talking about the commuter and wants for –
- Sportive but comfortable design
- Fun and non-expensive performance
- New features that make everyday riding much easier
- Support of the large TVS reliability
- Service in abundance offered by most manufacturer
₹90,000-1,00,000 segment : Raider 125 probably, one of the smartest purchase in this range The lacks both razor-sharp horsepower and bags of extras but might just be the most set (to) complete — a brat that delivers on all the marks that actually matter for young Indian riders.
In this era when commuter bikes are losing their zest, the Raider just reminds us that sure enough everyday riding can be good. If you are looking for a motorcycle that has a regular smile on your face from morning to night either for daily ride or on weekend then TVS Raider 125 stands alone.
