Both Hero and TVS now offer dual-disc variants, though only one gets the added safety of dual-channel ABS.
The sporty-commuter segment is a relatively new space, pioneered by the TVS Raider. Following its success, Hero joined the bandwagon with the Xtreme 125R. To keep things competitive, TVS recently introduced a new top-spec dual-disc variant of the Raider, while Hero has gone a step further with a dual-disc version that also gets dual-channel ABS – a first for the segment. Here’s how these two sporty 125cc commuters stack up on paper.
Hero Xtreme 125R vs TVS Raider: Engine and output
| Engine and output |
|---|
|
| Engine | 124.7cc, single cylinder, air-cooled | 124.8cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled |
| Power | 11.5hp at 8,250rpm | 11.4hp at 7,500rpm |
| Torque | 10.5Nm at 6,500rpm | 11.2Nm at 6,000rpm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Power-to-weight ratio | 84.5hp/tonne | 91.2hp/tonne |
Raider offers more torque and a better power-to-weight ratio
Both motorcycles produce similar levels of power, but the Raider edges ahead with a higher torque figure. Like the Jupiter, the Raider also features a boost mode that delivers an additional 0.5Nm of torque when needed for quicker overtakes. It also benefits from a better power-to-weight ratio.
Hero Xtreme 125R vs TVS Raider: Weight and dimensions
| Weight and dimensions |
|---|
| Hero Xtreme 125R | TVS Raider | |
| Seat height | 790mm | 780mm |
| Kerb weight | 136kg | 125kg |
| Wheelbase | 1319mm | 1326mm |
| Fuel tank capacity | 10 litres | 10 litres |
| Ground clearance | 180mm | 180mm |
The Xtreme 125R has a 10mm taller seat
The Xtreme 125R has a higher kerb weight, which remains the same across all its variants. On the flipside, the Raider’s dual-disc variant weighs 2kg more than the rest of the line-up. The Raider also has a 10mm lower seat height, though the Xtreme’s seat is equally accessible in real-world terms.
Hero Xtreme 125R vs TVS Raider: Tyres, suspension and brakes
| Tyres, suspension and brakes |
|---|
| Hero Xtreme 125R | TVS Raider |
| Tyres (F/R) | 90/90 - 17 / 120/80 - 17 | 90/90-17 / 110/80-17 |
| Suspension (F/R) | Telescopic fork / monoshock | Telescopic fork / monoshock |
| Brakes (F/R) | 276mm / NA | 240mm / 200mm |
The Xtreme 125R gets a wider rear tyre across its range
The top two variants – TFT and SXC – come equipped with wider-section tyres, while the lower variants use an 80/100-section (F/R) setup. Even so, the Xtreme 125R still has a wider rear tyre, a specification consistent across the entire Xtreme range. In terms of suspension, both bikes are closely matched on paper, each offering preload adjustability for the monoshock. As of this writing, Hero hasn’t updated its website with details on the rear disc diameter, although the Xtreme’s front disc is larger, in line with its higher kerb weight. The Xtreme 125R also remains the only motorcycle in the sporty 125cc commuter segment to feature dual-channel ABS, while the Raider continues with single-channel ABS.
Hero Xtreme 125R vs TVS Raider: Features
The Raider’s top-spec variant features a TFT display with smartphone connectivity
Along with dual-channel ABS, Hero has equipped the Xtreme 125R with a ride-by-wire throttle that enables cruise control and rider modes – Power, Road and Eco – all operated via a new segmented colour LCD screen shared with the Glamour X. The Raider, meanwhile, misses out on these features but now offers dual disc brakes on the top-spec variant. Apart from the CB125 Hornet, the Raider also remains the only bike in this segment to feature a TFT display on its top variant with connected features and voice-assistance.
Hero Xtreme 125R vs TVS Raider: Price
| Price |
|---|
| Hero Xtreme 125R | TVS Raider |
| Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) | Rs 1.04 lakh | Rs 95,600 |
The Xtreme 125R’s top-spec variant costs more than the Raider’s
The Xtreme 125R is over Rs 8,000 more expensive than the Raider, but it justifies the premium with a host of features, some unheard of even on bikes in a segment or two above. These additions enhance the overall feel-good factor while improving safety, thanks to the inclusion of dual-channel ABS. That’s a major advantage in emergency situations and particularly relevant in a market where riders tend to rely more on the rear brake than necessary. To further set this variant apart, Hero has introduced a fresh set of exclusive colours – red, silver and green – each accented with subtle stripes.
The Raider, on the other hand, remains the more affordable option and continues to offer features like a TFT display with smartphone connectivity, which helps elevate its perceived value. TVS also offers the Raider at a much lower starting price, although the base variants miss out on several features offered on the higher trims, including a front disc brake.
Also see:
Honda CB125 Hornet performance tested and explained