I’ve been using a 125 cc Bajaj Discover 125 ST since 2012. However, its braking and narrow tyres make me nervous when riding on the highway. In 2018, I bought an Apache RTR 200 4V. Though I liked its crisp performance and strong brakes, it felt too heavy for me. A couple of near accidents made me sell it the next year, and since then I’ve been using only the Discover 125 ST. Now I want to upgrade to another 125 cc bike with better braking, slightly wider tyres, similar kerb weight, and a kick starter.

•30w

If you want wider tyres in the 125cc sporty commuter space, you'll have to go for one of the sporty-looking, feature-loaded options like the TVS Raider, Hero Xtreme 125R and Honda CB125 Hornet. All have at least single-channel ABS on the higher variants and tyres that are grippy enough to handle all sorts of road conditions you might encounter, both of which should help you stop in a controlled manner.

You've mentioned that having a kick starter is a priority for you, and of the bikes listed above, only the Hero has it as standard. However, these bikes are thoroughly modern, and their electric starters will work in just about every situation you find yourself in. So we'd advise you not to restrict yourself and potentially miss out on a high-quality product because of an antiquated notion like that.

Explore bikes mentioned

TVS

Raider

from ₹91,333

Hero MotoCorp

Xtreme 125R

from ₹1.00 Lakh

Honda Bikes

CB125 Hornet

from ₹1.27 Lakh

•30w•

Bajaj Pulsar 125 is one of the better pick in such category.

•29w•

Apache rtr 200 is really a good choice u can also look for tvs raider

•30w•

very great information.

•30w•

Bajaj Pulsar 125 is one of the better pick in such category.

•30w•

Informative article. kudos to the team

•30w•

Great answer, really appreciate it

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•2d

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•6d

Hi, I currently own a Hero Duet BS3 model. My current weekly running is around 80 km, most of which is within the city. Due to the current petrol prices, my weekly fuel bill is around Rs 400. Would it be financially viable for me to switch to an electric scooter given my usage?

•3d

From what you have told us, it seems that your Hero Duet's engine is consuming an unusually large amount of fuel for the distance you are covering. Our first suggestion would be to get it serviced properly and see if this changes anything. If it doesn't, given your low weekly run, getting a new petrol scooter like a Jupiter, Access or Activa would make more sense than switching to a more expensive electric bike. The high initial cost you shell out for the e-scooter will take years to recoup with your limited use. Nevertheless, if your next vehicle must be an EV, then choose from proven brands like TVS, Bajaj, Ather and Hero.

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