OVERVIEW
Performance and Engine
At the heart of the TVS Raider 125 is a refined 124.8cc, air- and oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine, producing a healthy 11.38 PS at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm at 6,000 rpm. This modern 3-valve motor is paired with TVS’ iGO Assist technology, enhancing low-end tractability and mid-range punch. TVS claims a 0-60km/h sprint in just 5.8–5.9 seconds, making it one of the quickest in its class—ideal for urban traffic and spirited commutes.
- Crisp throttle response and smooth power delivery across the rev range
- Two riding modes: Eco (for optimal efficiency) and Power (for quicker acceleration)
- Idle Start-Stop system for efficiency in traffic
- Refined NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) levels for daily usability
The Raider 125 features a 5-speed manual gearbox with slick and well-spaced gear ratios. The clutch action is light, making it effortless for frequent gear changes in dense Indian traffic.
The TVS Raider achieves a certified top speed of 99km/h. Its performance remains consistent across variants thanks to the optimal power-to-weight ratio and precise fueling.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
The ARAI-certified mileage of the TVS Raider is 71.94 kmpl. This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in its segment, striking a balance between real-world performance and low running costs.
Real-world user reports indicate that mileage figures for the Raider typically range from 57 kmpl to 65 kmpl, depending on riding style, road conditions, and traffic.
Features and Technology
Aggressive Streetfighter Styling
- Distinctive naked bike look with sporty tank scoops, LED headlamp with animalistic LED DRL, sculpted body panels, split seat, and aluminium grab rails create a standout road presence. The styling is youthful, aerodynamic, and optimised for easy urban manoeuvrability.
Segment-Leading Digital Displays
- Entry and mid variants feature a first-in-segment reverse LCD digital cluster displaying all ride data (gear position, fuel economy, trip meter).
- The top-spec SmartXonnect variant features a 5-inch full-colour TFT display, Bluetooth, navigation, call/message alerts, and voice assistance.
SmartXonnect with 85+ Connectivity Features
The TFT console enables:
- Bluetooth pairing with smartphones
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Call, SMS, and app notification alerts
- Ride analytics and voice-assisted navigation
- On-the-go call management via the handlebar switch
Multiple Ride Modes: Eco, Power, and Boost
- First in the 125cc segment, allowing riders to switch between Eco (for mileage), Power (maximum acceleration), and Boost (for extra punch in iGO variants) depending on the ride conditions and preference.
iGO (IntelliGo) Assist and Idle Start-Stop
- iGO technology automatically shuts down the engine at long idling and restarts instantly for improved fuel efficiency and convenience, especially in traffic. Idle Start-Stop system further boosts city mileage and reduces emissions.
Best-in-Class Performance
- Powered by a 124.8cc, 3-valve, single-cylinder engine producing 11.38PS at 7,500rpm and 11.2Nm at 6,000rpm.
- Outstanding acceleration: 0–60km/h in 5.8–5.9 seconds, making it one of the quickest in the class.
Synchronised Braking Technology (SBT) and Safety Features
- Drum and disc variants feature SBT (TVS’ version of CBS) for safer, balanced braking.
- Side-stand engine cut-off prevents accidental rides with the stand down.
- Bright LED headlamp and tail lamp for clear night visibility.
Full Suite of Comfort and Convenience Add-ons
- 5-step adjustable gas-charged monoshock at the rear and telescopic front suspension for city and patchy road comfort.
- Under-seat storage compartment—first in its segment—for storing small items.
- USB charging port for keeping devices powered on the move.
Ergonomics and Rideability
- Low 780mm seat height for easy access; light 123kg kerb weight makes it approachable for beginners and daily commuters alike.
- Wide, comfortable seat, upright bars, and natural footpeg position offer fatigue-free riding in all conditions.
Customisation and Special Editions
- Available in regular variants, Super Squad Edition (Marvel-themed Iron Man and Black Panther liveries), and iGO variant.
- Colour options include Striking Red, Fiery Yellow, Blazing Blue, Wicked Black, and special Flex-Fuel Green (coming soon).
Two Riding Modes, USB Charger, and Underseat Storage
- Most variants offer two riding modes (Eco/Power), with Boost in iGO.
- USB charging port and practical underseat storage for daily needs.
Modern Communication and Safety Tech
- Voice assist integration through SmartXonnect; emergency and service due reminders on the console; engine kill switch, hazard, and pass switches as standard.
Build Quality
The TVS Raider sets a high standard in the 125cc segment with its robust steel tubular frame designed for Indian conditions. It boasts quality panels, alloy wheels, and switchgear that give it a premium feel at an affordable price. Owners report excellent durability and minimal vibration, even at higher speeds and on rough roads.
The quality of the materials is high, provided that regular maintenance is performed. Components such as fasteners and seat mechanisms are designed to be long-lasting. However, some minor rattling may occur over time, which is typical for daily commuters. The Raider features durable paint, weather-resistant switches, and comes with a five-year/60,000km warranty, making it a reliable choice for city and semi-urban travel.
Comfort
The TVS Raider is designed for Indian riders, offering a comfortable and sporty riding position with an upright handlebar and moderate footpeg placement. With a seat height of 780mm and options for split or single seats, it accommodates both short and tall riders easily. The plush, wide seat ensures comfort during long rides, and pillion riders enjoy good support with soft grab handles.
The suspension features telescopic front forks and a five-step adjustable monoshock at the rear, providing a smooth ride over potholes and speed bumps. It strikes a balance between comfort and support for both single and pillion riders. The lightweight chassis facilitates easy manoeuvres, city U-turns, and parking. Additional features, such as a digital display, USB charging, and practical storage, enhance everyday convenience.
Handling
The Raider excels in agility, boasting a lightweight design of 123kg and a compact form, making it ideal for navigating urban traffic in Indian cities. Riders praise its easy manoeuvrability and quick response, appealing to both beginners and experienced riders. Its geometry allows for fast direction changes while ensuring stability at higher speeds, making it reliable on highways.
The suspension and chassis provide a solid feel in corners and over bumps, complemented by road-focused tyres that offer good grip. Braking options include drum setups with SBT (TVS’s combined braking system) or front disc variants for reliable stops. This combination of a nimble chassis, light weight, and safety features offers a secure and enjoyable riding experience for various conditions in India.
Styling
The TVS Raider stands out as one of the sharpest and most youthful motorcycles in the 125cc segment, redefining commuter style for Indian riders. It embraces an aggressive streetfighter-inspired look, headlined by the following design elements:
- Animalistic LED Headlamp: The signature headlamp design, with X-shaped LED DRLs, gives the Raider a robotic, “Transformer-like” face that’s instantly identifiable on Indian roads.
- Sporty Fuel Tank and Tank Shrouds: Muscular tank extensions and scoops enhance the purposeful stance, lending a street-naked appearance.
- Split/Stepped Seat: Most variants feature a sporty, slightly raised split seat, while the base model offers a comfortable single seat for broad rider appeal.
- Edgy Body Panels and Tail: The Raider’s sharp bodywork flows smoothly from the tank to a slightly upswept tail section, culminating in a unique LED tail lamp.
- Premium Touches: Blacked-out alloy wheels, aluminium grab handles, and a brushed-metal tip on the exhaust add to its upmarket, athletic persona.
- Digital Instrumentation: All variants get a reverse LCD digital cluster, while higher trims offer a 5-inch full-colour TFT display with advanced SmartXonnect functions.
This contemporary design is crafted for India’s young urban population, aiming for both visual impact and functional daily use.
Colour Options and Variants
TVS offers the Raider in a class-leading palette of vibrant and stylish colourways, designed to suit a range of personalities:
- Wicked Black(SX)
- Fiery Yellow
- Forza Blue(SX)
- Iron Man Red (Super Squad Edition)
- Black Panther(Super Squad Edition)
- Striking Red
- Nardo Grey
- Blazing Blue
The TVS Raider family caters to varied commuter needs in India with a robust line-up of six major variants:
- Drum
- Single Seat
- Split Seat
- iGO
- Super Squad Edition
- SmartXonnect
All variants are powered by the same refined 124.8cc engine and share key features like LED lighting and a digital display, but range from essential commuter models to fully connected, tech-forward editions. This widespread ensures there’s a Raider for every kind of Indian commuter—pragmatic or performance-inclined.
Value for Money and Pricing
The TVS Raider is a competitively priced option in India’s 125cc commuter segment, starting at ₹ 87,010 for the Base (Drum brake) variant. It features a 5-speed gearbox, a full-colour TFT display with Bluetooth and SmartXonnect (in top variants), multiple riding modes (Eco, Power, Boost in iGO), voice assist, USB charging, and under-seat storage—features not typically found in competitors.
Powered by a 124.8cc 3-valve engine, it delivers 11.38PS and 11.2Nm, providing real-world mileage of 60-65kmpl, with acceleration from 0-60km/h in just 5.8-5.9 seconds. The Raider’s design features striking streetfighter looks, split seats, an aggressive LED DRL headlamp, and Marvel-inspired Super Squad editions, offering a premium appearance for under ₹1 lakh.
With TVS’s extensive service network, a 5-year warranty, low service costs, and good resale value, the Raider combines practicality with attractive features. The highest variant costs under ₹1.15 lakh on-road, making it a viable upgrade for those moving from basic 100–110cc bikes. It competes with several notable models, including:
- Honda SP125
- Bajaj Pulsar NS125/N125
- Hero Xtreme 125R
- Hero Glamour Xtec
- Honda Shine 125
VERDICT
The TVS Raider redefines the 125cc commuter motorcycle segment in India with its impressive features, bold design, and city-friendly performance, all at an affordable price for urban riders. Key advantages include advanced technology (digital display, connectivity, ride modes), strong build quality, high fuel efficiency, and everyday usability—qualities not commonly found in this category.
Minor drawbacks, like the lack of a rear disc brake and a firmer rear suspension, are insignificant in comparison. For Indian riders seeking a premium, enjoyable, and practical daily motorcycle within their budget, the Raider is a standout option, reinforcing TVS’s reputation in the urban commuter market.
PROS
- Outstanding Feature Set: The Raider comes with a full-colour TFT display (top variant), Bluetooth connectivity, voice assist, turn-by-turn navigation, ride analytics, underseat storage, and USB charging. Entry trims include a reverse LCD digital cluster and ride modes, making it unique within the ₹1 lakh segment in India.
- Sporty Styling: With an aggressive LED headlamp, muscular tank extensions, and a split/stepped seat, the Raider stands out as a bold choice for young urban riders.
- Quick Acceleration: Its 124.8cc engine produces 11.38PS and 11.2Nm (11.75Nm with iGO Assist), enabling a 0–60km/h time of around 5.8–5.9 seconds, leading in the 125cc commuter segment.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The upright riding posture, 780mm seat height, and well-padded seating ensure comfort for both rider and passenger. The suspension is tuned for Indian roads.
- Agile Handling: Weighing just 123kg, the Raider offers easy manoeuvrability in the city and stable highway handling for all rider experience levels.
- Fuel Efficiency: Expect real-world mileage of 60-65 kmpl, and even better results in eco mode, which suits Indian traffic conditions. well
- Robust Build Quality: Owners appreciate the tight panel fit, durable construction, and reliable performance. It comes with a 5-year/60,000km warranty and extensive service support.
- Affordability: Fully loaded variants, including SmartXonnect and Super Squad Edition, are priced under ₹1.15 lakh on-road, offering premium features at accessible prices.
CONS
- No Rear Disc Brake: The rear features a drum brake, which may limit braking performance compared to competitors that offer disc brakes on both the front and rear.
- Possible Minor Rattles: Some owners may notice minor panel rattles or noises over time, especially after rough use. However, these are rare with proper maintenance.
- Pillion Comfort on Split Seat: The sporty split seat may lack sufficient space and comfort for larger passengers on long trips. At the same time, the single-seat option offers more comfort but sacrifices style.
- Slightly Firm Ride Quality: The suspension generally performs well, but some users find it a bit firm at certain speeds or over larger bumps, especially with additional weight.
- Not the Most Powerful: While it accelerates quickly and is fuel-efficient, its power and top speed (just under 100 km/h) are closely matched or surpassed by newer models in the 125cc segment, like the Bajaj Pulsar.
- No ABS Offered: The bike comes with Synchronised Braking Technology (SBT), which is standard for this class but less advanced than ABS found in some competitors’ premium models.
OTHER RELATED LINKS FROM BIKELEAGUE INDIA
LIST OF ALL TVS BIKES
APACHE RR 310
312.2cc, 30-37km/l,
38PS @ 9,800rpm,
29Nm @ 7,900rpm
Price – ₹ 2,77,999 Onwards
TVS X
4.4 kWh, 140km/charge,
11,000W, —
105km/h
Price – ₹ 2,49,990 Onwards
APACHE RTR 310
312.2cc, 27-35km/l,
35.6PS @ 9,700rpm,
28.7Nm @ 7,700rpm
Price – ₹ 2,39,990 Onwards
APACHE RTR 200 4V
197.75cc, 33-38km/l,
20.82PS @ 9,000rpm,
17.25Nm @ 7,250rpm
Price – ₹ 1,48,620 Onwards
RONIN
225.9cc, 37-42.95km/l,
20.4PS @ 7,750rpm,
19.93Nm @ 3,750rpm
Price – ₹ 1,35,500 Onwards
APACHE RTR 180
177.4cc, 40-47km/l,
16.7PS @ 8,500rpm
15.5Nm @ 7,000rpm
Price – ₹ 1,35,020 Onwards
APACHE RTR 160 4V
159.7cc, 40-50km/l,
17.55PS @ 9,250rpm,
14.73Nm @ 7,250rpm
Price – ₹ 1,24,870 Onwards
APACHE RTR 160
159.7cc, 49-54km/l,
15.53PS @ 8,400rpm,
13.9Nm @ 7,000rpm
Price – ₹ 1,20,420 Onwards
IQUBE
3.04kWh, 100km/charge,
4,400W, 117.2KG
78km/h
Price – ₹ 94,434 Onwards
RAIDER
124.8cc, 57-65km/l,
11.38PS @ 7,500rpm,
11.2N.m @ 6,000rpm
Price – ₹ 87,010 Onwards
NTORQ
124.8cc, 40-45km/l,
9.4PS @ 7,000rpm,
10.5Nm @ 5,500rpm
Price – ₹ 0 Onwards
JUPITER 125
124.8cc, 45-50km/l,
8.15PS @ 6,500rpm,
10.5Nm @ 4,500rpm
Price – ₹ 81,090 Onwards
STAR CITY PLUS
109.7cc, 68-86km/l,
8.08PS @ 7,350rpm,
8.7NM @ 4,500rpm
Price – ₹ 78,286 Onwards
ZEST 110
109.7cc, 45-50km/l,
7.8PS @ 7,500rpm,
8.8Nm @ 5,500rpm
Price – ₹ 76,591 Onwards
JUPITER
109.7cc, 55-60km/l,
7.8PS @ 7,500rpm
8.8Nm @ 5,500rpm
Price – ₹ 78,631 Onwards
RADEON
109.7cc, 64-69km/l,
8.08PS @ 7,350rpm,
8.7Nm @ 4,500rpm
Price – ₹ 59,880 Onwards
SPORT
109.7cc, 70-80km/l,
8.08PS @ 7,350rpm,
8.7Nm @ 4,500rpm
Price – ₹ 59,800 Onwards
XL 100
99.7cc, 55-67km/l,
4.35PS @ 6,000rpm,
6.5Nm @ 3,500rpm
Price – ₹ 44,999 Onwards
ABOUT TVS BIKES
TVS Motor Company, a prominent player in the Indian two-wheeler industry, has a rich innovation and strategic growth history. TVS Motor manufactures a wide range of two-wheelers, including mopeds, scooters, commuter motorcycles, and racing-inspired bikes like the TVS Apache series and the TVS Apache RR310. The company’s diverse product portfolio caters to various segments, ensuring options for different customer preferences and needs.
Early Beginnings and Foundation
- 1911: TVS was founded by T.V. Sundaram Iyengar as a transportation company. Initially, it operated buses between Madurai and Theni under the name Southern Roadways.
- 1962: TVS’s journey in the automotive sector began with the establishment of Sundaram Clayton, which manufactured automotive parts in collaboration with Clayton Dewandre Holdings, UK.
Entry into Two-Wheelers
- 1976: TVS set up a manufacturing plant to produce mopeds, marking its entry into the two-wheeler segment.
- 1980: The TVS 50, India’s first two-seater moped, was launched, revolutionizing personal mobility in India.
Strategic Collaborations and Innovations
- 1982: TVS entered into a technical collaboration with Suzuki Motor Corporation, leading to the establishment of Indo Suzuki Motorcycles Ltd. This partnership introduced 100cc Indo-Japanese motorcycles in India.
- 1989: TVS Motor began manufacturing motorcycles, significantly expanding its product offerings.
- 1994: The launch of the TVS Scooty, a light scooter, further solidified TVS’s presence in the two-wheeler market.
Growth and Technological Advancements
- 2001: TVS ended its collaboration with Suzuki and was renamed TVS Motor Company, focusing on indigenous development.
- 2002: TVS Victor, India’s first fully indigenously developed motorcycle, was launched, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation.
- 2006: TVS introduced the Apache series, which became India’s first bike to feature an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Expansion and Global Reach
- 2016: TVS began manufacturing the BMW G310R, a model co-developed with BMW Motorrad, highlighting its global partnerships.
- 2020: TVS acquired Norton Motorcycle Company, expanding its footprint in the international market.
- 2022: TVS announced a significant investment in Norton Motorcycle, further strengthening its global presence.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
- 2024: TVS continues to innovate, introducing vehicles like the TVS iQube and investing in electric vehicle startups.
- Current: TVS Motor Company is the third-largest motorbike manufacturer in India and the second-largest two-wheeler exporter, with a presence in over 60 countries.
TVS Motor Company has evolved from a transportation service provider to a leading two-wheeler manufacturer known for its innovation, quality, and strategic growth. The company’s journey reflects its ability to adapt to changing market dynamics and consumer preferences, ensuring its continued success in the competitive automotive industry.
