TVS Raider 125 Review 2026: The Street Fighter That Redefined the 125cc Segment

Introduction

TVS Motor Company launched the Raider 125 in 2021 with a clear mission—to break the stereotype that commuter bikes have to be boring. Fast forward to 2026, and the TVS Raider 125 has not only survived but thrived, becoming one of the most popular 125cc motorcycles in India . It carries the “street fighter” DNA, offering a perfect blend of sporty styling, modern features, and everyday practicality .

February 2026 brings updated pricing and continued demand for this segment-defining machine . But does it still make sense in a market now crowded with options like the Honda SP 125, Bajaj Pulsar NS125, and Hero Xtreme 125R? This detailed TVS Raider 125 review covers everything—on-road price, mileage, specifications, features, and real-world performance—to help you decide if this street fighter deserves a spot in your garage.


Quick Highlights Table

FeatureSpecification
Engine Displacement124.8 cc, Air & Oil-Cooled, Single Cylinder
Maximum Power11.38 PS @ 7500 rpm 
Maximum Torque11.2 Nm @ 6000 rpm 
Valve Architecture3-Valve (2 Intake, 1 Exhaust) 
Transmission5-Speed Manual
Mileage (ARAI Certified)71.94 kmpl 
Fuel Tank Capacity10 Litres 
Kerb Weight123 kg 
Power-to-Weight Ratio92.5 PS/ton 
Seat Height780 mm 
Ground Clearance180 mm 
BrakesFront Disc (240mm), Rear Disc (200mm on top variants) 
ABSSingle-Channel (Standard on Disc variants) 
0-60 km/h5.8 seconds (with iGO Assist) 
Price (Ex-Showroom Delhi)Starts at ₹82,000 
Price (Top Variant Ex-Showroom)₹97,050 

The current image has no alternative text. The file name is: Whisk_5ac3c3342c6a2b7bfe14c7d320c7f09ddr.jpeg

TVS Raider 125 Price in India 2026

TVS recently revised the Raider 125 prices in February 2026, with a marginal hike of up to ₹1,250 . Here’s the complete pricing breakdown:

Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) – February 2026 

VariantEx-Showroom Price
Drum Brake (Base)₹82,000
Disc Brake Variants₹90,000 – ₹95,000 (approx)
SXC DD (LCD with Rear Disc)₹95,225 
TFT DD (Top Variant)₹97,050

On-Road Price in Major Cities (Top Variant) 

CityOn-Road Price
Delhi₹1,11,207
Mumbai₹1,14,796
Kolkata₹1,12,288
Bengaluru₹1,16,139
Chennai₹1,16,393

EMI Calculator 

  • Loan Amount: ₹93,556 (approx on-road)
  • EMI: Starts at ₹2,010 per month
  • Tenure: 60 months

Note: Prices are indicative and subject to change based on dealership offers, RTO charges, and insurance costs. Check with your local TVS dealer for February 2026 promotional offers.


TVS Raider 125 Engine and Performance

The heart of the TVS Raider 125 is its refined 124.8cc air-and-oil-cooled single-cylinder engine that punches above its weight class .

Engine Specifications

ParameterValue
Engine TypeAir & Oil Cooled, Single Cylinder, SI
Displacement124.8 cc
Bore53.5 mm 
Stroke55.5 mm 
Valve Per Cylinder3 (2 Intake, 1 Exhaust) 
Fuel SupplyET-Fi (Eco-Thrust Fuel Injection) 
Emission TypeBS6 Phase 2 (OBD2B)

Power and Torque

  • Maximum Power: 11.38 PS @ 7500 rpm 
  • Maximum Torque: 11.2 Nm @ 6000 rpm 
  • With iGO Assist Torque: 11.75 Nm 

Transmission

  • Gearbox: 5-Speed Constant Mesh
  • Clutch: Wet Multi-plate type

Real-World Performance 

The Raider 125’s engine is surprisingly peppy for a 125cc commuter. The 3-valve architecture (two intake, one exhaust) allows better breathing than traditional 2-valve engines, resulting in quicker acceleration .

  • City Riding: The bike feels lively and responsive in stop-and-go traffic. The short first and second gears mean you get quick off-the-line acceleration, though you’ll find yourself shifting to third gear quickly after crossing speed bumps .
  • Mid-Range: The engine is happiest in the mid-range, pulling cleanly from 40-70 km/h without much effort.
  • Highway Cruising: At 80-90 km/h, the engine remains relatively smooth. Vibrations start creeping in after 90 km/h, which is acceptable for a 125cc commuter .
  • Acceleration: 0-60 km/h comes in 5.8 seconds with iGO Assist engaged . This is segment-leading performance.

iGO Assist (IntelliGO): This is TVS’s branded start-stop system. It automatically shuts off the engine when idling (at traffic lights) and restarts instantly with a throttle twist. This not only saves fuel but also reduces engine stress in city traffic .

Glide Through Technology (GTT): This feature allows the bike to crawl forward at slow speeds (under 10 km/h) without any throttle input. In bumper-to-bumper traffic, this reduces left-hand fatigue since you don’t need to constantly work the clutch and throttle .


TVS Raider 125 Street Fighter Design

The “street fighter” tag isn’t just marketing—the Raider 125 genuinely looks aggressive and modern, standing out in the 125cc commuter crowd .

Key Design Elements

ComponentDescription
HeadlightAggressive LED headlamp with integrated DRLs 
Fuel TankSculpted 10L tank with sharp tank shrouds and extensions
Side PanelsMuscular body graphics with “Raider” branding
Tail SectionSplit seat setup with sporty tail cowl
ExhaustBlacked-out muffler with heat shield
UnderbellyEngine cowl for premium look 
Alloy Wheels17-inch 5-spoke black alloys

Color Options 2026

TVS offers the Raider 125 in multiple color schemes:

  • Racing Red
  • Knight Black
  • Fiery Yellow
  • Metallic Blue
  • Matte Grey

Build Quality

TVS has significantly improved its fit and finish over the years. The Raider 125 feels solid, with good paint quality, consistent panel gaps, and durable switchgear . The overall proportions—2070mm length, 785mm width, and 1028mm height—give it a road presence unusual for a 125cc bike .


TVS Raider 125 Features and Technology

This is where the Raider 125 truly shines. It brought features to the commuter segment that were previously reserved for premium motorcycles .

Feature Comparison by Variant

FeatureDrum VariantDisc VariantSXC DDTFT DD
Instrument ConsoleDigital LCDDigital LCDColour LCD5-inch TFT
Bluetooth ConnectivityNoNoYes (SmartXonnect)Yes (SmartXonnect)
Turn-by-Turn NavigationNoNoYesYes
Call/SMS AlertsNoNoYesYes
Voice AssistNoNoYesYes
Ride ModesNoNoPower/Boost/EcoPower/Boost/Eco
iGO AssistYesYesYesYes
GTTYesYesYesYes
LED HeadlightYesYesYesYes
USB Charging PortYesYesYesYes
Side Stand Engine Cut-offYesYesYesYes
Helmet ReminderYesYesYesYes

SmartXonnect Features 

On the SXC DD and TFT DD variants, the Bluetooth-connected SmartXonnect system offers:

  • Turn-by-turn navigation prompts
  • Incoming call and message alerts
  • Voice assist functionality
  • Ride data recording
  • Real-time mileage information
  • Phone battery level display

The TFT display is particularly impressive—it’s clear, easy to read even in direct sunlight, and adds a premium feel to the motorcycle .


TVS Raider 125 Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for commuter bike buyers, and the Raider 125 delivers impressively.

Mileage Figures 

ConditionMileage
ARAI Certified71.94 kmpl
City (Real-world)52-58 kmpl 
Highway (Real-world)58-65 kmpl

The 71.94 kmpl ARAI figure is among the best in the 125cc segment, significantly better than competitors like the Bajaj Pulsar 125 (51.46 kmpl)  and Honda SP 125 (63 kmpl) .

Fuel Efficiency Technologies 

  1. ET-Fi (Eco-Thrust Fuel Injection): Precisely calibrates air-fuel mixture based on engine conditions, ensuring optimal combustion.
  2. IntelliGO Start-Stop: Saves fuel by shutting off the engine at idle.
  3. Eco Ride Mode: A different throttle map that moderates acceleration for maximum efficiency.
  4. Real-Time Mileage Indicator: Helps riders adjust riding style for better fuel economy.

With a 10-liter fuel tank, the total range is approximately 500-600 kilometers on a full tank, depending on riding conditions .


TVS Raider 125 Dimensions and Weight

The Raider 125 is designed to be accessible to a wide range of riders while maintaining a sporty stance.

Complete Dimension Chart 

DimensionMeasurement
Overall Length2070 mm
Overall Width785 mm
Overall Height1028 mm
Wheelbase1326 mm
Ground Clearance180 mm
Seat Height780 mm
Kerb Weight123 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity10 Litres

Ergonomics

The Raider 125’s riding position strikes a balance between sporty and comfortable. The handlebar placement, 780mm seat height, and footpeg positioning allow an upright posture suitable for daily commuting without causing fatigue on longer rides . Riders as short as 5’4″ can flat-foot comfortably at stops.

At 123 kg, the Raider isn’t the lightest in its class—the Honda SP 125 is lighter at 116 kg . However, the weight distribution is well-managed, and the bike feels nimble once moving.


TVS Raider 125 Braking and Safety

Safety has been a key focus for TVS, and the Raider 125 has evolved to offer segment-leading braking hardware.

Braking Specifications by Variant 

VariantFront BrakeRear BrakeABS
Drum (Base)130mm Drum130mm DrumNo
Disc (Mid)240mm Disc130mm DrumSingle-Channel
SXC DD240mm Disc200mm DiscSingle-Channel
TFT DD240mm Disc200mm DiscSingle-Channel

Segment-First Rear Disc Brake

The updated Raider 125 (spotted in late 2025) introduced a rear disc brake on higher variants, making it the only 125cc motorcycle in India to offer this feature . This, combined with single-channel ABS, provides superior braking confidence.

Tyre Specifications

VariantFront TyreRear Tyre
Older Models80/100-17100/90-17 
Updated 2026 Models90/90-17110/80-17 

The wider tyres on updated models offer better grip and stability .

Additional Safety Features

  • Side stand engine cut-off
  • Helmet reminder
  • LED headlight with DRLs for better visibility
  • Pass light switch

TVS Raider 125 Variants Explained

Understanding the variant lineup helps you choose the right Raider for your needs and budget.

Variant Comparison 

FeatureDrumDiscSXC DDTFT DD
Price (Ex-Delhi)₹82,000~₹90,000₹95,225₹97,050
BrakesDrum-DrumDisc-DrumDisc-DiscDisc-Disc
ABSNoSingle-ChannelSingle-ChannelSingle-Channel
DisplayBasic LCDBasic LCDColour LCD5-inch TFT
SmartXonnectNoNoYesYes
Ride ModesNoNoYesYes
Target AudienceBudget buyersValue seekersTech enthusiastsFeature maximizers

Which Variant Should You Choose?

  • Drum Variant: Ideal for strictly budget-conscious buyers who want Raider’s design and engine without paying extra for features.
  • Disc Variant: The sweet spot for most buyers—gets front disc brake and ABS at a reasonable price.
  • SXC DD: Perfect for tech lovers who want Bluetooth connectivity and rear disc brake without spending on TFT.
  • TFT DD: For those who want the full Raider experience with the best display and all features. The ₹1,795 premium over SXC DD is worth it for the superior TFT screen .

TVS Raider 125 vs Competitors Comparison

The 125cc segment has heated up with multiple strong contenders. Here’s how the Raider 125 stacks up.

Detailed Comparison Table

ParameterTVS Raider 125Honda SP 125Bajaj Pulsar NS125Hero Xtreme 125R
Engine124.8cc, 3-Valve123.94cc, 2-Valve124.4cc124.7cc
Power11.38 PS 10.87 PS 11.8 PS ~11.4 PS
Torque11.2 Nm 10.9 Nm 10.8 Nm ~11.0 Nm
Mileage (ARAI)71.94 kmpl 63 kmpl 51.46 kmpl ~55 kmpl
Weight123 kg 116 kg ~140 kg~130 kg
Fuel Tank10L 11L 12L10L
Rear BrakeDisc (top)DrumDrumDrum
ABSSingle-ChannelSingle-ChannelSingle-ChannelSingle-Channel
TFT DisplayYes (top)NoNoYes (top)
BluetoothYes (top)Yes (top)NoYes (top)
Price (Ex-Delhi)₹82,000-97,050 ₹87,878 onwards ₹85,677 onwards ~₹95,000

Where Raider 125 Wins

  • Features: TFT display and Bluetooth connectivity at this price point is unmatched 
  • Mileage: 71.94 kmpl is significantly better than Pulsar and competitive with Honda 
  • Rear Disc Brake: Segment-first safety feature 
  • iGO & GTT: Start-stop and glide technology genuinely useful in traffic 
  • Power-to-Weight Ratio: 92.5 PS/ton is segment-best 

Where Competitors Fight Back

  • Honda SP 125: Lighter weight (116 kg), legendary Honda refinement, slightly better fit and finish 
  • Pulsar NS125: More power (11.8 PS), muscular design, Bajaj’s sporty legacy 
  • Xtreme 125R: Fresh design, competitive features, Hero’s reliability

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Peppy and refined engine – 11.38 PS with 3-valve tech makes it fun to ride Short lower gears – First and second gears are very short; frequent shifting required in traffic 
Excellent fuel efficiency – 71.94 kmpl ARAI keeps running costs low Not the lightest – 123 kg is heavier than Honda SP 125 (116 kg) 
Segment-best features – TFT display, Bluetooth, ride modes at this price Rear tyre grip – Stock tyres could be better for spirited riding 
Rear disc brake – Only 125cc bike with rear disc (on top variants) Premium pricing – Top variant at ₹97,050 is expensive for 125cc segment 
iGO and GTT technology – Genuinely useful in city traffic Vibrations above 90 km/h – Refinement drops at higher speeds 
Sporty street fighter design – Stands out from boring commuters Fuel tank capacity – 10L is smaller than competitors’ 11-12L tanks 
Strong power-to-weight ratio – 92.5 PS/ton for quick acceleration No dual-channel ABS – Only single-channel offered
Good ground clearance – 180mm handles speed breakers well Build quality – Good but not quite at Honda’s level

Expert Opinion: Is the TVS Raider 125 Right for You?

The TVS Raider 125 isn’t just another commuter motorcycle—it’s a statement that practicality doesn’t have to be boring. After spending time with the bike in 2026, here’s our honest take .

Who Should Buy the TVS Raider 125

1. Young Professionals and College Students
If you’re starting your career or still in college and want a bike that looks cool without breaking the bank, the Raider 125 is perfect. The street fighter styling, TFT display, and Bluetooth connectivity make it feel much more premium than its price tag suggests. Plus, the 71.94 kmpl mileage means you won’t spend your entire salary on fuel .

2. Daily Office Commuters
If you ride 30-50 km daily in city traffic, features like iGO Assist (start-stop) and GTT (glide technology) will genuinely improve your riding experience. The comfortable ergonomics mean you won’t reach office tired, and the fuel efficiency keeps your monthly budget under control .

3. First-Time Bike Buyers
New riders will appreciate the manageable weight, confidence-inspiring handling, and safety features like single-channel ABS and optional rear disc brake. The power delivery is predictable enough for beginners but exciting enough to keep you engaged as you gain experience .

4. Tech Enthusiasts on a Budget
Want a TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, and ride modes but can’t afford a 200cc+ motorcycle? The Raider 125’s top variant delivers all this at under ₹1 lakh ex-showroom. The SmartXonnect system with navigation and call alerts genuinely adds convenience .

Who Should Look Elsewhere

1. Performance Seekers
If your primary requirement is outright speed and highway performance, the Raider 125 isn’t for you. Look at the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 or TVS Apache RTR 160 instead. The 125cc segment has limitations, and the Raider, despite its peppy nature, remains a commuter at heart .

2. Brand-Loyal Honda Fans
If you prioritize buttery-smooth refinement above all else and are willing to sacrifice some features, the Honda SP 125 offers legendary build quality and Honda’s famous engine refinement. It’s lighter (116 kg) and carries the Honda reliability badge .

3. Strictly Highway Riders
For regular highway commutes, the short gearing of the Raider means the engine revs higher at cruising speeds. The vibrations above 90 km/h can be tiring on long journeys. Consider the Bajaj Pulsar 125 or a 160cc bike for better highway manners .

4. Ultra-Budget Buyers
At ₹82,000 starting and ₹97,050 for the top variant, the Raider sits at the premium end of the 125cc segment. If price is your only consideration, there are cheaper alternatives like the Hero HF Deluxe or Bajaj CT series, though you’ll sacrifice style and features .

Verdict

The TVS Raider 125 earns a solid 3.5/5 rating . It’s not perfect—the short lower gears can be annoying in traffic, and the premium price might deter strict budget buyers. But for its target audience of young, style-conscious commuters who want their daily ride to be enjoyable, it’s one of the most compelling options in the 125cc segment today.

The combination of street fighter design, genuinely useful technology (iGO, GTT, SmartXonnect), excellent fuel efficiency, and now segment-first rear disc brake makes the Raider 125 a bike that truly understands what modern Indian commuters want .

If you’re in the market for a 125cc motorcycle in 2026, the TVS Raider 125 absolutely deserves a test ride. It might just make you look forward to your daily commute.


Important Links Table

PurposeLink
TVS Motor India Officialwww.tvsmotor.com
Check On-Road Pricewww.bikedekho.com/tvs-raider
Download BrochureAvailable at TVS dealerships
Find Nearest Dealerwww.tvsmotor.com/dealer-locator
Compare Bikesauto.hindustantimes.com/compare-bikes
Book Test RideVisit nearest TVS showroom

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the on-road price of TVS Raider 125 in 2026?

The on-road price of TVS Raider 125 varies by city. In Delhi, the top variant costs approximately ₹1,11,207 on-road. In Mumbai, it’s around ₹1,14,796, while in Bengaluru it’s about ₹1,16,139. The base drum variant starts at around ₹95,000 on-road in most cities .

Q2. What is the mileage of TVS Raider 125?

The TVS Raider 125 delivers an ARAI-certified mileage of 71.94 kmpl . In real-world conditions, expect 52-58 kmpl in city riding and 58-65 kmpl on the highway, depending on your riding style and traffic conditions .

Q3. Does TVS Raider 125 have a rear disc brake?

Yes, the top variants of the TVS Raider 125—specifically the SXC DD and TFT DD models—come equipped with a 200mm rear disc brake. This makes it the only 125cc motorcycle in India to offer a rear disc brake .

Q4. What is the engine specification of TVS Raider 125?

The TVS Raider 125 is powered by a 124.8cc air-and-oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 11.38 PS of power at 7500 rpm and 11.2 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm. It features a unique 3-valve head (2 intake, 1 exhaust) for better breathing and performance .

Q5. What is the seat height and weight of TVS Raider 125?

The seat height of TVS Raider 125 is 780 mm, making it accessible for riders of average height . The kerb weight is 123 kg, which is slightly heavier than the Honda SP 125 but lighter than most Bajaj competitors .

Q6. Does TVS Raider 125 have Bluetooth connectivity?

Yes, the SXC DD and TFT DD variants come with Bluetooth connectivity through TVS’s SmartXonnect system. Features include turn-by-turn navigation, call and SMS alerts, voice assist, and ride data recording .

Q7. What is the fuel tank capacity of TVS Raider 125?

The TVS Raider 125 has a fuel tank capacity of 10 litres . This gives a total range of approximately 500-600 kilometers on a full tank, depending on riding conditions.

Q8. What are the different variants of TVS Raider 125?

The TVS Raider 125 is available in four main variants: Drum (base), Disc (mid), SXC DD (colour LCD with rear disc), and TFT DD (top variant with 5-inch TFT display). Prices range from ₹82,000 to ₹97,050 ex-showroom Delhi .

Q9. What is iGO Assist in TVS Raider 125?

iGO Assist is TVS’s branded start-stop system. It automatically shuts off the engine when the bike is idling (at traffic lights) and restarts instantly with a twist of the throttle. This saves fuel and reduces engine stress in city traffic .

Q10. Which is better: TVS Raider 125 or Honda SP 125?

It depends on your priorities. The TVS Raider 125 offers better features (TFT display, Bluetooth, rear disc brake), higher mileage (71.94 kmpl vs 63 kmpl), and more power (11.38 PS vs 10.87 PS) . The Honda SP 125 is lighter (116 kg vs 123 kg) and offers legendary Honda refinement and build quality . Choose Raider for features and efficiency; choose Honda for refinement and resale value.


Conclusion

The TVS Raider 125 has successfully redefined what a 125cc commuter motorcycle can be. It proves that practicality and excitement can coexist, offering a package that appeals to the heart as much as the head .

With its street fighter design, the Raider 125 turns heads without screaming for attention. The peppy 124.8cc engine with 3-valve technology delivers 11.38 PS of power—enough to keep daily commutes interesting without being intimidating for new riders . The 71.94 kmpl mileage ensures running costs stay low, while features like iGO Assist and GTT genuinely improve the city riding experience .

The 2026 updates, including the segment-first rear disc brake on higher variants, show TVS’s commitment to continuously improving the product . The SXC DD and TFT DD variants with SmartXonnect connectivity bring technology that was once reserved for much more expensive motorcycles .

Yes, the Raider 125 has its flaws—short lower gears that demand frequent shifting, vibrations above 90 km/h, and a premium price tag that might make budget buyers think twice . But for its target audience—young riders, daily commuters, and tech enthusiasts who refuse to accept boring transportation—these are acceptable trade-offs.

If you’re looking for a 125cc motorcycle in 2026 that offers style, features, efficiency, and now segment-leading safety, the TVS Raider 125 deserves a top spot on your test ride list. Visit your nearest TVS dealership, take it for a spin, and experience the street fighter difference yourself.


WhatsApp CTA

“सबसे पहले Bike Reviews और Latest Offers पाने के लिए हमारा WhatsApp Channel Join करें: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbCFIfaD8SDrQpYDXA35


Author Box

Rajesh Kumar (Senior Auto Expert)

Automotive journalist with 10+ years of experience testing motorcycles for leading Indian publications including BikeDekho, ZigWheels, and HT Auto. Passionate about helping buyers make informed decisions through honest, practical reviews focused on real-world usability.


Related Posts

  1. Honda SP 125 Review 2026: The Refined Commuter
  2. Bajaj Pulsar NS125 Review: Sporty Performer
  3. Hero Xtreme 125R vs TVS Raider: Detailed Comparison
  4. Best 125cc Bikes in India Under ₹1.2 Lakh
  5. TVS Apache RTR 160 Review: Step Up to Performance

SEO Tags

TVS Raider 125 Review 2026, TVS Raider price, TVS Raider on road price, TVS Raider mileage, TVS Raider 125 specifications, TVS Raider street fighter, TVS Raider features, TVS Raider colors, TVS Raider weight, TVS Raider seat height, TVS Raider ground clearance, TVS Raider fuel tank capacity, TVS Raider engine specs, TVS Raider power and torque, TVS Raider vs Honda SP 125, TVS Raider vs Bajaj Pulsar 125, TVS Raider vs Hero Xtreme 125R, TVS Raider TFT display, TVS Raider SmartXonnect, TVS Raider Bluetooth connectivity, TVS Raider rear disc brake, TVS Raider single channel ABS, TVS Raider iGO assist, TVS Raider GTT technology, TVS Raider user reviews, TVS Raider expert review, TVS Raider pros and cons, TVS Raider 2026 model, TVS Raider BS6 Phase 2, TVS Raider EMI calculator, TVS Raider best price, TVS Raider February 2026 price, 125cc bike review, best commuter bike 2026, TVS motorcycle review, टीवीएस रेडर 125 रिव्यू, टीवीएस रेडर की कीमत, टीवीएस रेडर माइलेज

Leave a Comment