TVS Raider: It’s hard for one small, safe commuter motorcycle to stand out in a sea of sensible 125cc options in India. But TVS had other ideas.
Here’s where the TVS Raider 125 comes in—a bike that not only gets you to A from B, but in a manner that’s not yawn-inducing.
With its aggressive styling, digital technology and performance to match, the Raider isn’t just another km- focused machine. It injects a sporty note to the commuter category — without busting the bank.
Then, is the Raider all show and no go, or is there something there? Let’s find out.
Design & Styling: Above anything else in 125cc segment
Let’s face it: the Raider doesn’t look like any commuter bike you’ve ever seen. Sharp lines, sculpted tank, split seat, LED headlamp with eyebrow DRLs—it wouldn’t be amiss to think it’s a 150cc or a 160cc motorcycle. It’s youthful, bold and made to target Gen Z riders.
The sporty nature is further enhanced by beefy tank shrouds and an American flat track-inspired, slightly upswept exhaust. It feels more like an infantile Apache than a mild-mannered commuter.
And yes, you do get the digital display with gear shift indicator and riding modes (in the top-end variant) to top it all up.
Engine & Performance: Peppy Without the Coarseness
The Raider is powered by a 124.8cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled, SOHC, fuel-injected engine that puts out 11.2 bhp and 11.2 Nm of torque.
Those figures may not set the world on fire, but the Disco feels plenty peppy on the road.
It’s a bike designed to perform fast in the low- and mid-range so you can enjoy zipping around, city-style. Throttle response is fantastic and you can hardly feel gear changes through the 5-speed gearbox.
Whether you are passing cars or blasting through gaps in the traffic, the Raider feels spirited and self-assured.
Top speed is about 100-105 km/h, what’s more important is it’s not gasping at 70-80 km/h.
Rider Comfort & Handling: Confident & Comfortable
TVS has got the suspension setup bang-on here. The front telescopic forks and rear monoshock are sporty yet comfortable. Bad roads, potholes, speed breakers are simply gobbled up.
The riding position is upright, with slightly rear-set foot pegs and a wide handlebar—great for around town and for weekend riding.
It’s got very light handling, comes in at 123 kg, and that lightness makes it flickable in city traffic.
Braking is provided by a front disc and rear drum (a rear disc is an option) and although you’d wish it had ABS (it doesn’t, only CBS), it’s pleasing and reassuring under normal braking.
Features: Loaded for Its Category
TVS didn’t skimp on features. The Raider comes with:
All digital instrument cluster
Real-time mileage indicator
Gear position indicator
Side-stand engine cut-off
Ride modes: Eco, Power (in SmartXonnect variant)
Optional SmartXonnect for Bluetooth connectivity
And for a 125cc commuter, this is segment-leading tech. No boring analog meters here!
Mileage & Price: Wallet-conscious Fun
The Raider has an excellent balance of performance and economy. You can expect figures between 55-65 km/l, depending on how you psyche up your throttle. For the daily rider, that’s a significant win with petrol where it is.
As of mid-2025, the TVS Raider 125 is available in the price range of ₹95,000 to ₹1.05 lakh (ex-showroom) based on the variant selected. For what it is, it’s an amazing value.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Sporty and unique styling
Peppy and refined engine
Comfortable ride quality
Excellent mileage
Feature-rich for the price
Cons:
No ABS (only CBS)
A little snug for taller riders
No bite in rear drum brake version
Not made for those long stints on the highway
Decree: Commuting just became cool
TVS Raider:
TVS Raider 125 is a joy in the 125cc space. It offers traffic-stopping style, sporting performance and up-to-date tech — while being fuel-efficient and relatively affordable.
No sting by the goliath any longer, Raiders taking the saying, so I guess heres the deal, if you’re a student, 1st time buyer or just a punctual commuter, to unleash hot-blooded fun you’ve found exactly the thing.
If your daily grind requires a bit more flash, the Raider is prepared to answer.