We compared both the bikes on paper and this is how it turned out
Bajaj Auto launched a new variant of the Pulsar NS125 called the LED BT ABS and it is priced at Rs 1,06,739 (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Pulsar NS125 ABS directly rivals the top-end SX variant of the TVS Raider 125 in the sporty commuter segment. We compared both the bikes on paper and here’s how it turned out:
Design:
As far as the design is concerned, both the bikes have a hint of sportiness to their design. The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 ABS retains the silhouette of the Pulsar NS200. This particular design has been around for a long time and compared to its rivals in the segment, the bike is in need of a makeover. It is available in four distinctive colour schemes: Black, Blue, Orange and Red.
On the other hand, the TVS Raider 125 SX gets a modern and sporty design with sharp bodylines and is available in three colour schemes: Fiery Yellow, Forza Blue and Wicked Black. We personally like the TVS Raider 125’s modern design more.
Engine:
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is powered by a 124.4cc, air-cooled single cylinder engine producing 11.8PS and 11Nm. The TVS Raider 125 is powered by a 124.8cc,air-cooled, single cylinder engine producing 11.38PS and 11.2Nm, which is 0.42PS less than the NS125 but produces a little bit more torque. Both bikes are paired to a 5-speed gearbox.
Features:
The Bajaj Pulsar gets an LCD display with readouts of the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, instantaneous fuel economy and is equipped with smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth for call and SMS alerts. The TVS Raider 125 on the other hand gets a TFT display with smartphone connectivity for call and SMS alerts, sports and weather updates, and turn-by-turn navigation with voice assist. Both the bikes get LED headlamps but the TVS Raider gets all-LED lighting setup with LED indicators and taillamp too.
The TVS Raider 125 does get some additional features like underseat storage, side-stand cut-off, silent start system and a USB charging port too. The Raider also gets two riding modes that allow the user to modulate the engine’s performance.
Underpinnings:
Both bikes get a telescopic fork and a 5-step preload adjustable monoshock. They get a 240mm front disc and a 130mm rear drum brake and have 17-inch alloy wheels at both ends with tubeless tyres. The TVS Raider is equipped with SBT (Synchronised Braking Technology) while the Pulsar NS125 gets a single-channel ABS for an increased safety quotient. The Pulsar gets a higher seat height of 805mm as opposed to the Raider’s more accessible 780mm of seat height. The Pulsar weighs 144kg while the Raider only weighs around 123kg, making it easier to manoeuvre the bike in city traffic conditions.
Verdict:
While the Raider looks more modern and is more feature-loaded, it lacks one important safety feature the Pulsar has – ABS. But it offers exciting performance and features more commonly seen in higher capacity bikes.
The Pulsar’s design seems a little bit outdated but it is still a desirable bike with good power, torque and fuel economy. If you prefer a performance-oriented and a feature-loaded bike instead of safety features, you can opt for the Raider. If you are a fan of the NS200-inspired styling and want a capable sporty commuter for daily use, then you can opt for the Pulsar NS125.
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