The 125cc motorcycle segment in India is one of the most competitive, especially for buyers who want a stylish bike with good mileage at an affordable price. Two of the most popular choices are the Bajaj Pulsar 125 and the TVS Raider 125. While both bikes belong to the same engine class, their design philosophy, performance, and riding experience are very different.
In this detailed comparison, we help you decide which 125cc bike is best for you.
Design & Road Presence
Bajaj Pulsar 125
The Pulsar 125 carries the classic Pulsar DNA that has ruled Indian roads for years. It looks muscular and sporty with:
- Wolf-eye halogen headlamp
- Wide fuel tank with sharp extensions
- Split seat option (in higher variants)
- Premium paint schemes
The Pulsar 125 feels like a bigger bike, making it popular among riders who want a strong street presence.
TVS Raider 125
The TVS Raider 125 follows a modern and aggressive streetfighter design. Key highlights include:
- LED headlamp with DRLs
- Sharp tank shrouds
- Split seat as standard
- Fully digital instrument cluster
The Raider looks youthful and futuristic, especially appealing to college students and young riders.
Winner: TVS Raider 125 (more modern & eye-catching)
Engine & Performance
The Pulsar 125 delivers strong mid-range punch, ideal for city rides.
The Raider 125 feels quicker and smoother, especially during acceleration and overtakes.
Winner: TVS Raider 125 (better refinement & pickup)
Ride Quality & Handling
Pulsar 125
- Slightly heavier body
- Stable at high speeds
- Comfortable suspension for rough roads
Raider 125
- Lighter and more agile
- Easy to maneuver in traffic
- Balanced suspension setup
For daily city riding, the Raider feels more playful, while the Pulsar offers confidence on highways.
Winner: Tie (depends on riding style)
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
| Bike | Claimed Mileage |
|---|---|
| Pulsar 125 | 50-55 km/l |
| Raider 125 | 55-60 km/l |
The Raider 125 has a slight advantage due to its lighter weight and modern tuning.
Winner: TVS Raider 125
Braking & Safety
Both bikes offer:
- Front disc brake
- Rear drum brake
- Combined Braking System (CBS)
The Raider’s braking feels slightly sharper due to its lighter chassis.
Features Comparison
| Feature | Pulsar 125 | Raider 125 |
|---|---|---|
| Headlamp | Halogen | LED |
| Instrument Cluster | Semi-digital | Fully digital |
| Riding Modes | ❌ | ✅ (Eco / Power) |
| Bluetooth | ❌ | ✅ (selective variants) |
| Split Seat | Optional | Standard |
Winner: TVS Raider 125 (more features)
Price (Ex-showroom, approx.)
| BIKE | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Pulsar 125 | ₹85,000 – ₹92,000 |
| Raider 125 | ₹95,000 – ₹1.05 lakh |
The Pulsar 125 is more affordable, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers.
Winner: Bajaj Pulsar 125 (better value for money)
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
✔ Choose Bajaj Pulsar 125 if you want:
- A sporty bike at a lower price
- Strong road presence
- Comfortable daily commuting
✔ Choose TVS Raider 125 if you want:
- Latest features & technology
- Better mileage
- Youthful and modern styling
Overall Winner: TVS Raider 125 (for features & performan