TVS Raider Review: Still the Undisputed King of the 125cc Segment in 2026?

When TVS first dropped the Raider a few years ago, it didn’t just enter the 125cc segment; it reinvented it. Fast forward to 2026, and while the competition has become “Xtreme,” the Raider remains the go-to choice for Gen-Z riders and office commuters alike. It’s no longer just a “fuel-saver” bike; it’s a style statement. With the introduction of the iGO assist and the SmartXonnect variants, TVS has ensured that this bike feels more like a tech gadget on two wheels than a basic commuter.

The starting ex-showroom price for the TVS Raider currently sits at ₹83,650, scaling up to ₹96,500 for the top-of-the-line TFT variant. But the big question is: with new rivals breathing down its neck, does the “Wicked” Raider still have the edge?

QUICK SPECS TABLE (Key Highlights)

Feature	Specification
Engine	124.8 cc, Air & Oil Cooled, Single Cylinder
Max Power	11.38 PS @ 7500 rpm
Max Torque	11.2 Nm @ 6000 rpm (11.75 Nm with iGO)
Transmission	5-Speed Manual
Brakes	Disc (Front) / Drum (Rear) with SBT/ABS options
Ground Clearance	180 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity	10 Litres
Kerb Weight	123 kg

EXTERIOR DESIGN & ROAD PRESENCE

The TVS Raider is easily one of the most handsome bikes in the 125cc category. The robot-style LED headlamp with its unique DRL signature gives it an aggressive face that looks much larger than a 125cc bike. The fuel tank is muscular, featuring sharp shrouds that make it look like a baby streetfighter.

One thing I love is the color palette. Whether it’s the Fiery Yellow or the Super Squad editions (Deadpool/Wolverine), the paint quality is top-notch. The 17-inch alloy wheels and the sleek LED tail lamp ensure it turns heads at every red light. Does it have road presence? Absolutely. In fact, most people often mistake it for a 150cc or 160cc machine.

INTERIOR, COMFORT & FEATURES

Sitting on the Raider feels natural. The 780 mm seat height is a blessing for shorter riders, making it incredibly easy to manage in heavy traffic.

• Dashboard: The 5-inch TFT console on the top variant is a game-changer. It offers turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and even weather updates. Even the base LCD version is crisp and readable under direct sunlight.
• Space & Comfort: The split-seat setup is surprisingly comfortable. While the pillion seat isn’t massive, it’s adequate for city runs. Plus, you get a first-in-segment under-seat storage space for your phone or documents.
• Missing Bits: While it’s loaded, I would have loved to see a slightly larger fuel tank (12L would have been perfect) and better plastic quality on the switchgear, which feels a bit tactile but slightly “budget” compared to the rest of the bike.

ENGINE PERFORMANCE & DRIVING DYNAMICS

• City Drive: This is where the Raider shines. The 124.8cc engine is incredibly refined. The Glide Through Technology (GTT) allows you to crawl in traffic by just releasing the clutch—no throttle needed. It makes the “stop-and-go” of Mumbai or Bangalore traffic much less tiring.
• Highway Drive: It can comfortably cruise at 75-80 kmph. While it can hit a top speed of around 99 kmph, you’ll feel some minor vibrations in the footpegs once you cross the 85 kmph mark.
• Suspension: The gas-charged 5-step adjustable monoshock is a rarity in this segment. The suspension absorbs potholes easily, and unlike its rivals with twin shocks, the Raider feels much more composed when you lean into a corner.

Read more : Speed 400 MY25

SAFETY: The New Standard

For 2026, safety has taken a front seat. Higher variants now come equipped with Single-Channel ABS, which is a massive upgrade over the older Sync Braking System (SBT). The build quality feels solid, and the bike feels planted even during hard braking. However, the rear drum brake still feels a bit “wooden”—you really have to rely on the front disc for urgent stops.

REAL WORLD MILEAGE (The Truth)

TVS claims a staggering 71.94 kmpl, but as we know, real-world conditions in India are different.

• ARAI Claimed Mileage: 71.94 kmpl
• Real World City Mileage: 55 – 58 kmpl
• Real World Highway Mileage: 62 – 65 kmpl

If you ride mostly in Eco Mode, you can easily see the fuel efficiency hover around the 60 kmpl mark. Switch to Power Mode, and while the throttle response gets punchy, the mileage will drop to around 52-54 kmpl.

THE COMPETITION: TVS Raider vs Rivals

Feature	TVS Raider	Hero Xtreme 125R	Honda SP 125
Power	11.38 PS	11.55 PS	10.8 PS
Tech	TFT + Bluetooth	LCD + ABS	Digital Console
Suspension	Monoshock	Monoshock	Twin Shock
Starting Price	₹83,650	₹89,000	₹86,700

Winner: If you want pure tech and refinement, the TVS Raider wins. However, if you want a slightly more aggressive “big bike” feel and better safety (ABS as standard on more variants), the Hero Xtreme 125R is a very close second.

FINAL VERDICT

Buy it if:

• You want the best-looking 125cc bike in India.
• You love tech features like TFT displays and Bluetooth.
• You want a refined, vibration-free engine for city commuting.

Skip it if:

• You are taller than 6 feet (the bike might feel a bit small).
• You frequently carry heavy pillions on long highway trips.
• You prefer the classic “Pulsar” raw feel over modern refinement.

FAQs (People Also Ask)