The Hero Xtreme 125R has entered a highly competitive segment that already includes proven performers like the TVS Raider 125, Bajaj Pulsar 125, and Honda SP 125. Each bike has its own strengths — from sporty design to fuel efficiency or long-term reliability.
So, how does Hero’s latest 125cc streetfighter fare against its closest rivals? Let’s take a detailed look at engine specs, performance, mileage, comfort, and ownership experience to see which of these bikes truly dominates India’s sub-₹1.2 lakh commuter-sport category.
1. Quick Comparison Table — Specs and Pricing
| Model | Engine (cc) | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | Mileage (km/l) | Kerb Weight (kg) | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Xtreme 125R | 124.7 | 11.4 @ 8,250 rpm | 10.5 @ 6,500 rpm | 59–60 | 136 | 95,000 – 1,05,000 |
| TVS Raider 125 | 124.8 | 11.2 | 11.2 | 56–58 | 123 | 95,000 – 1,00,000 |
| Bajaj Pulsar 125 | 124.4 | 11.9 | 11.0 | 52–55 | 140 | 93,000 – 1,05,000 |
| Honda SP 125 | 123.9 | 10.8 | 10.9 | 60–65 | 118 | 92,000 – 99,000 |
Summary:
Hero hits a sweet balance between power and mileage. The Xtreme 125R offers more refinement and torque than the Raider while outperforming the Pulsar in fuel efficiency. The Honda SP 125 remains unbeatable for pure economy, but it lacks the Xtreme’s dynamic feel.
2. Engine and Performance Comparison
All four bikes use 125cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engines — but their tuning philosophies differ drastically.
Hero Xtreme 125R:
- Power delivery is linear and smooth, ideal for both new riders and experienced commuters.
- The 11.4 hp output makes it one of the strongest in the class.
- Gear shifts are crisp, and clutch feel is light, reducing fatigue in daily commutes.
- Top speed: 105 km/h.
TVS Raider 125:
- Feels more eager off the line with a sportier throttle response.
- Vibrations creep in at high revs, but acceleration is quicker up to 60 km/h.
- Top speed: 104 km/h.
Bajaj Pulsar 125:
- Offers the punchiest low-end torque, giving it the best pickup among all.
- However, refinement isn’t its strength — vibrations and roughness are common at higher RPMs.
- Top speed: 107 km/h.
Honda SP 125:
- Prioritizes smoothness and relaxed riding over outright performance.
- Acceleration is gradual but incredibly refined.
- Top speed: 103 km/h.
Verdict:
If you want a refined yet lively engine, the Hero Xtreme 125R is the most balanced — smoother than the Raider, more polished than the Pulsar, and more fun than the SP 125.
3. Mileage and Efficiency
Fuel efficiency remains the top deciding factor in the 125cc class. Here’s how the contenders compare:
| Model | City (km/l) | Highway (km/l) | Overall (km/l) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Xtreme 125R | 58–60 | 61–63 | 59–60 |
| TVS Raider 125 | 56 | 58 | 57 |
| Bajaj Pulsar 125 | 52 | 55 | 53 |
| Honda SP 125 | 62 | 65 | 63 |
Insight:
The SP 125 still holds the mileage crown, but Hero’s i3S stop-start system makes the Xtreme 125R the most fuel-efficient “sporty” 125cc bike on the market. Its 10-litre tank gives a real-world range of nearly 600 km.
4. Ride Comfort and Ergonomics
Each bike offers a distinct riding posture and comfort level:
| Bike | Riding Posture | Seat Comfort | Suspension Setup | Pillion Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Xtreme 125R | Upright sporty | Medium-firm | Telescopic + Monoshock | Supportive |
| TVS Raider 125 | Relaxed, neutral | Soft | Telescopic + Monoshock | Comfortable |
| Bajaj Pulsar 125 | Slightly aggressive | Medium | Telescopic + Twin Shocks | Average |
| Honda SP 125 | Commuter upright | Plush | Telescopic + Twin Shocks | Excellent |
Verdict:
For daily commuting, the Raider and SP 125 score highest in ride comfort, but the Xtreme 125R offers the best balance between sportiness and practicality — comfortable enough for city rides yet engaging on twisty roads.
5. Features and Technology
| Feature | Xtreme 125R | Raider 125 | Pulsar 125 | SP 125 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lighting | Full LED setup | LED headlamp | Halogen | LED headlamp |
| Instrument Cluster | Digital (gear indicator, trip, eco mode) | Digital (SmartXonnect on top trim) | Semi-digital | Fully digital |
| Connectivity | No | Bluetooth (optional) | No | No |
| Start-Stop Tech (i3S) | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Brakes | Disc/Drum + ABS | Disc/Drum + CBS | Disc/Drum + CBS | Disc/Drum + CBS |
Observation:
Hero keeps things simple yet effective — full LED lighting, ABS safety, and idle stop-start tech at this price point are standout inclusions. TVS Raider edges ahead only if you opt for the costlier connected variant.
6. Build Quality and Reliability
The Xtreme 125R inherits its solid frame and fit quality from the Xtreme 160R. Panels feel tight, switchgear has good tactile response, and paint finish looks premium.
- Hero Xtreme 125R: Well-built, refined, long-term reliability expected.
- TVS Raider: Light and modern, but plastics can feel flimsy in older batches.
- Bajaj Pulsar 125: Tough chassis, but vibrations and paint fade over time.
- Honda SP 125: Flawless finish and unmatched refinement — though not sporty.
Verdict: Hero and Honda lead in durability, while Pulsar remains rugged but unpolished.
7. Ownership Cost and Maintenance
| Bike | Average Annual Service Cost (₹) | Fuel Cost/Month (₹) | Insurance Renewal (₹) | Total Monthly Ownership Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Xtreme 125R | 900–1,200 | 1,200 | 1,200 | ≈ ₹2,400/month |
| TVS Raider 125 | 1,000–1,300 | 1,250 | 1,250 | 2,500/month |
| Bajaj Pulsar 125 | 1,400–1,600 | 1,350 | 1,300 | 2,800/month |
| Honda SP 125 | 1,000–1,200 | 1,150 | 1,200 | 2,350/month |
Insight:
Hero and Honda continue to offer the lowest running costs, thanks to wide service networks and affordable spares. Pulsar maintenance remains slightly higher, and Raider parts are pricier due to newer tech components.
8. Which Bike Suits Which Type of Rider?
| Rider Type | Best Choice | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Young urban commuter (18–25 years) | Hero Xtreme 125R | Sporty looks, refined engine, low running cost |
| Performance-oriented rider | TVS Raider 125 | Fastest acceleration, sporty handling |
| Mileage-focused commuter | Honda SP 125 | Segment-leading efficiency and comfort |
| Tough daily rider / rural use | Bajaj Pulsar 125 | Rugged engine and strong service reach |
Conclusion:
The Hero Xtreme 125R stands as the most versatile — stylish, frugal, reliable, and balanced between fun and function.
9. Final Verdict — Hero’s Most Balanced 125cc Yet
When compared head-to-head, the Hero Xtreme 125R strikes the perfect middle ground:
- More refined than the Pulsar,
- More efficient than the Raider,
- More exciting than the SP 125.
Hero’s effort clearly shows in design, tuning, and overall value. It may not lead every single metric, but as an all-rounder, it’s the most complete 125cc motorcycle you can buy in 2025 — affordable, feature-rich, and effortlessly practical.
FAQs
Q1. Which bike is faster — Hero Xtreme 125R or TVS Raider 125?
The Raider accelerates slightly quicker off the line, but the Xtreme 125R offers better refinement and mid-range punch.
Q2. Which gives better mileage — Xtreme 125R or SP 125?
The Honda SP 125 has the edge in fuel efficiency, but the Xtreme 125R isn’t far behind, delivering 59–60 km/l in mixed riding.
Q3. Which bike is most comfortable for daily use?
Both the Xtreme 125R and Raider 125 offer a good mix of sporty and comfortable ergonomics.
Q4. What’s the best 125cc bike under ₹1.1 lakh?
For overall value and balance, the Hero Xtreme 125R tops the list in 2025.
Q5. Which has the lowest running cost?
Hero Xtreme 125R and Honda SP 125 are the most affordable to maintain and refuel.
