Design and Build Quality:
While launching the Raider 125 model, TVS launched it as a sporty commuter. In other words, TVS’s plan is a commuter bike with some sporty features. Although TVS claims to be launching this bike with youth in mind, the Raider 125 bike has a design and features that will appeal to all segments. The Raider 125 has a slightly different design from the Commuter.
On the other hand, the design of the Extreme 125R model is completely aggressive. Taking the youth bike very seriously, Hero has designed the Xtreme 125R bike just for the youth. From the front headlamp to the rear grab rail, the Hero Extreme 125R looks like a smaller version of a bigger bike.
As far as the build quality is concerned, both the bikes are okay. In both, it is seen that the respective companies have shown cost-cutting measures in terms of structural quality
Facilities:
The Raider 125 comes with a 5-inch color TFT screen, TVS Smart Connectivity, two riding modes and LED lighting throughout.
The Extreme 125R model also gets mobile connectivity, start-stop switch, 7-step adjustable Showa monoshock suspension setup and single channel ABS.
The answer to the Raider is the Extreme 125R, which weighs 13 kg more. But this bike is designed in such a way that you don’t feel that weight during use. The Raider 125 model has a seat height of 780mm and the Extreme 125R model has a seat height of 792mm.
TVS has given the Raider 125 bike a sporty riding position. However, the Extreme 125R model has a neutral riding position. Here too both the bikes are pretty much the same. However, it is worth noting here that the Raider 125 has some additional technical features.
Engine and Performance:
The Raider is powered by a 124.8cc, single cylinder, air and oil cooled engine that produces 11.2hp of power and 11.2Nm of torque. The Raider is great for long distance journeys as well as city trips. But, it has a low gear ratio so you need to change gear frequently while traveling in the city.
On the other hand, the Extreme 125R model is powered by a 124.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 11.4hp of power and 10.5Nm of torque. Although this engine doesn’t provide instant power compared to the Raider, it is better than the Raider for long distance journeys. Also, its gear ratio is slightly higher so there is no need to change gear frequently within the city.
Price and Which is the Best Bike:
The Raider 125 model with single piece seat, without 5 inch TFT display is priced at Rs 95,000 and the Raider model with split seat and TFT display is priced at Rs 1.03 lakh ex-showroom in India.
Similarly, the Xtreme 125R model without ABS is priced at Rs 95,000 and the Xtreme 125R bike model with ABS is priced at Rs 99,500 ex-showroom.
Hero claims that the Raider model will get a mileage of 67 kmpl and the Extreme 125R model will give a mileage of 66 kmpl.
Each bike is better in every aspect so that it is impossible to say which of the two bikes is better. Hero Xtreme 125R is a bike with good design and good handling and Raider 125 is a bike that is full of technical features and a bit luxurious.
Overall, the Raider 125 model is the best choice in terms of practicality, daily use, mileage and all-round performance.