Sharp-Looking TVS Raider 125 Breaks Cover

What’s New?
The Raider 125 is an entirely new motorcycle from the ground up, with a Transformer-esque face and lots of edgy panels. The tank is reminiscent of the old Hornet 160R and a bit of the Yamaha FZ Fi. The split seat enhances the bike’s sportiness. One neat element is the under-seat plastic panel, which has a small mesh section that allows you to get a glimpse of the monoshock.

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That said, we find the tail unit to be a bit out of place. It doesn’t seem cohesive, really, given the rest of the motorcycle, and that is slightly underwhelming. Also, while you get LED lighting for the headlight and taillight, the turn indicators are still the old-fashioned bulb units.

Currently, the Raider comes with a negative LCD dash displaying a plethora of data. Apart from the usual, you also get a fuel efficiency readout, a top and average speed indicator, a stop/start system indicator, and a ride mode indicator.

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Yes, the Raider 125 gets ride modes, the first for a 125cc motorcycle in the country. There are two ride modes - Power and Eco - for the 124.8cc single-cylinder 3-valve motor. While the Raider’s engine has the same bore and stroke figures as the NTorq 125, TVS claims it is completely new. It is more potent, with an output of 11.38PS @ 7500rpm and 11.2Nm @ 6000rpm, one of the highest in the segment.

While there is no power restriction in Power mode, the Eco mode limits the engine to just 7000rpm. Throttle response is duller as it is claimed to deliver three percent more fuel efficiency than Power mode. TVS claims the Raider will return 67kmpl, which is on par with our test results of the Hero Glamour 125 BS6.

This engine is housed in a split single-downtube frame, kind of similar to the Apaches. It employs a telescopic fork and a monoshock. While you get the option of a 240mm disc and a 130mm drum brake for the front end, the 130mm rear drum brake and CBS are standard. The 17-inch alloy wheels are wrapped in slim TVS Remora tyres.

TVS will soon launch another variant of the Raider 125. This will be the top-spec trim with a 5-inch colour TFT screen and TVS’ SmartXonnect Bluetooth module. Prices of this version aren’t out yet, but we expect TVS to launch it by the end of the year.

ZigSays
The TVS Raider 125 has all the makings for a punchy and sporty 125cc commuter. How is it to ride? Well, we did take the bike out for a spin on the TVS test track in Hosur. It delivers on the sporty front and proves to be a strong competitor to other 125cc bikes. So head here to read the first ride review of the TVS Raider 125.