Top 125cc Motorcycles in India for Daily Commuting 2026

The best 125cc motorcycles in India for daily commuting in 2026 include the TVS Raider 125, Honda SP 125, and Hero Xtreme 125R. These bikes strike the ideal balance between fuel efficiency (55–66 kmpl), modern features, and affordable pricing, making them perfect for city traffic and daily office travel.

With ex-showroom prices ranging from ₹82,000 to ₹1.05 lakh, the 125cc segment has become the preferred choice for riders upgrading from 100cc motorcycles while avoiding the higher running costs of 150cc bikes.

125cc Motorcycle Market Overview (India 2026)

The Indian 125cc commuter motorcycle segment continues to grow steadily in 2026, now accounting for nearly 30% of total two-wheeler sales. Buyers are increasingly shifting away from entry-level 100cc bikes in favor of more powerful and better-equipped 125cc models.

Key market highlights:

• Rising demand for sporty styling with commuter efficiency
• Price increase of 3–5% year-on-year due to updated safety norms
• High demand in Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities because of traffic congestion
• Focus on low running costs and reliable daily performance

Key Trends in the 125cc Segment

Several trends define the 125cc motorcycle market in India for 2026:

• Digital & Smart Features:
  Over 65% of buyers now prefer fully digital instrument clusters, LED headlamps, Bluetooth connectivity, call alerts, and navigation support.
• Improved Safety:
  Single-channel ABS is becoming more common, led by models like the Hero Xtreme 125R, pushing competitors to enhance braking systems.
• E20 Fuel Compatibility:
  All major manufacturers now offer E20-compliant engines to meet upcoming emission regulations.
• Sporty Commuter Design:
  Buyers want aggressive styling without sacrificing mileage or comfort.

Best 125cc Motorcycles in India (2026)

TVS Raider 125

• Engine: 124.8cc
• Mileage: 60 kmpl
• Price: ₹97,500 (ex-showroom)
• Best For: Tech-focused urban commuting
• Highlights: Ride modes, digital console, sporty design

Honda SP 125

• Engine: 123.9cc
• Mileage: 65 kmpl
• Price: ₹89,400
• Best For: Reliable daily office commuting
• Highlights: Smooth engine, strong resale value

Hero Xtreme 125R

• Engine: 124.7cc
• Mileage: 66 kmpl
• Price: ₹99,200
• Best For: Safety-focused riders
• Highlights: Single-channel ABS, wide tyres, sporty looks

Bajaj Pulsar NS125

• Engine: 124.4cc
• Mileage: 55 kmpl
• Price: ₹1.05 lakh
• Best For: Performance-oriented commuters
• Highlights: Pulsar branding, aggressive styling

Honda Shine 125

• Engine: 123.9cc
• Mileage: 65 kmpl
• Price: ₹82,000
• Best For: Conservative, long-term usage
• Highlights: Comfort, low maintenance, reliability

Buyer Guide – Which 125cc Bike Should You Choose?

• Maximum mileage & reliability:
  Choose Honda Shine 125 or Honda SP 125
• Modern features & sporty feel:
  Go for TVS Raider 125
• Better braking & safety:
  Pick Hero Xtreme 125R
• Brand image & performance styling:
   Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is the best fit

Advantages and Limitations of 125cc Bikes

Advantages

• Better power-to-weight ratio than 100cc bikes
• Easier overtaking in city traffic
• Comfortable riding posture
• Low maintenance with service intervals of 4,000–6,000 km

Limitations

• Limited top-end power for highways above 90 kmph
• Narrow rear tyres on most models
• Higher upfront cost (₹15,000–₹20,000 more than 100cc bikes)

Final Verdict

The TVS Raider 125 stands out as the best overall 125cc motorcycle in India for 2026, thanks to its feature-rich package and balanced performance.
For buyers prioritizing long-term reliability and resale value, the Honda SP 125 remains the safest choice.
Safety-conscious riders should opt for the Hero Xtreme 125R, while performance-oriented commuters may prefer the Bajaj Pulsar NS125.

Despite slightly higher prices, the improvements in technology, safety, and build quality make 125cc motorcycles a smart investment for daily urban commuting.