Top 5 Stylish And Feature-rich 125cc bikes in India

The TVS Raider tops the list in terms of features and premium appeal 

• The KTM 125 Duke comes off as an extremely premium and quite powerful 125cc bike
• That said, what TVS did with the Raider was something that even bet the mad KTM 125 Duke
• Even the newest entrant in this segment, the Hero Xtreme 125R was a bike that quite impressed us

125cc motorcycles represent a balanced option between the affordable yet basic 100cc commuter bikes and the thrilling albeit costly 150-200cc entry-level motorcycles. Therefore, for individuals seeking a blend of performance and style without sacrificing on quality, we present a compilation of the five most feature-rich and stylish 125cc motorcycles currently available for purchase in India: 

KTM 125 Duke

Back when KTM came to India, it was quite a premium brand. Yes, it still is, but it was even more so back then. But the only issue was, the likes of the KTM 200 Duke and the 390 Duke were quite expensive for most Indian buyers. So when the brand finally announced that it would be making an affordable 125cc bike, us Indians were quite happy. Yes, the 125 Duke is expensive but it boasts of being one of the most powerful in the segment. In fact, it is also the only one in the segment to have a liquid cooled engine as well as an upside down front fork. 

So if you are looking for a way to get into the KTM family, there is no better option than the KTM 125 Duke. 

TVS Raider

The TVS Raider changed the way we think about 125cc motorcycles. When it came out a couple of years ago, we rode it at TVS’ test track in Chennai and were pleasantly surprised. Be it its aggressive and modern-day looks, exciting performance or even an incredible amount of features, the TVS Raider is sure to stand out in the crowd that is bland 125cc commuters. In fact, the Raider’s top-end variant is the only bike in the entire segment that gets a TFT console.

And in typical TVS manner, that console is loaded to the T with features, to a point where you can literally check cricket scores on the TVS Raider while you ride it. Not even 125cc bikes, this segment is unheard of in a lot of much bigger bikes as well. 

Hero Xtreme 125R

The Hero Xtreme 125R was another bike that pleasantly surprised us. When we rode it around Hero’s test track in Jaipur, we were surprised by how smooth the bike felt and just how punchy and torquey that engine was. Any gear, any speed, if you picked up the throttle, the acceleration was smooth and the punch was delightful. All of it wrapped in the rather aggressive styling means you will stand out in a crowd full of bikes with the Xtreme 125R.

Now while its design resembles the Ducati Streetfighter’s design, is a matter of discussion. But even if it does, it isn’t really a bad thing, for the Streetfighter itself is a very handsome-looking motorcycle. 

Bajaj Pulsar NS125

Those wanting a dialled-down version of the KTM 125 Duke could seriously have a look at the Bajaj Pulsar NS125. If the TVS Raider didn’t exist, the Pulsar NS125 would be a fantastic sporty 125cc bike for those who can’t make the stretch to the pricey 125 Duke. The NS125 is light and fun to ride, while retaining the iconic NS design language. Even though it has not been updated in quite a while, this design looks muscular and will definitely make you stand out with your bike. 

KTM RC 125 

Remember all the good things I told you about the KTM 125 Duke? Picture all of that but with a beautiful fairing put around it. Sports bikes are incredibly appealing and if you want an entry-level one, the RC 125 is a very nice option. So if the 125 Duke is a bit meh for you in terms of design, do have a look at the RC 125. It’s sharp, aggressive and even a bit polarizing. But what is guaranteed, is that it’ll ensure it grabs a lot of attention and makes you look like a professional racer when you ride it.