KATHMANDU: Competition has increased in the 125cc premium commuter segment with the launch of Pulsar N125 – the smallest Pulsar model from Bajaj stable – in the Nepali market. The new Pulsar variant distinguishes itself on several fronts in this highly competitive segment.
TVS, Hero and Honda are competing aggressively in this segment. On the basis of its power, performance, features and pricing, the N125 is positioned as a direct rival to the TVS Raider 125.
MeroAuto has have compared these two bikes across six key areas to understand how these two contenders stack up.
Design
Both bikes feature a naked, sporty design aimed at young riders. They come equipped with a straight handlebar, muscular fuel tank, aggressive styling, split seats and bold headlight setups. Visually, the Pulsar N125 appears slightly bulkier and more aggressive than the Raider, especially when it comes to its graphics and front profile.
Engine
The TVS Raider is powered by a 124.8cc single-cylinder, three-valve, air- and oil-cooled, fuel-injected engine that delivers 12.9 brake horsepower and 11.5 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Pulsar N125 features a 124.59cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, BS6-compliant fuel-injected engine producing 12 PS of power and 11 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles come with a 5-speed gearbox.
Mileage
The Raider comes with a 10-liter fuel tank, while the N-125 has a slightly smaller 9.6-liter capacity. According to company claims, both motorcycles offer a mileage of approximately 50 to 60 kilometers per liter.
Suspension, Tires and Dimensions
The Pulsar N125 is fitted with an RSU telescopic fork with a cover at the front and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. It uses a disc brake at the front and a drum brake at the rear. The TVS Raider also features a telescopic fork and monoshock suspension, and is available with a front disc brake. Both motorcycles come with tubeless tires, alloy wheels and a combined braking system.
In terms of dimensions, the Bajaj N125 weighs 125 kg, has a seat height of 795 mm and a ground clearance of 198 mm. The TVS Raider weighs 120 kg and offers a ground clearance of 181 mm and a seat height of 780 mm.
Features
Both motorcycles, which target premium commuter segment, are packed with modern features and sporty looks. The Pulsar N125 includes LED lighting, Z-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs), an LED tail light, a USB charging port, start-stop assist, a single-piece pillion grab rail, chunky tires and a large digital LCD TFT screen. The screen displays information such as Bluetooth connectivity, trip meter, speedometer, fuel gauge, tachometer and time.
The TVS Raider comes equipped with an LED headlamp with C-shaped DRLs, a 5-inch color LCD TFT instrument cluster, ride modes, a silent start system, a single-piece grab rail and a USB charging port.
Price
Hansraj Hulaschand & Company, the official distributor of Bajaj Auto in Nepal, has priced the Pulsar N125 at Rs 297,900. The TVS Raider 125 is available for Rs 296,900. Jagdamba Motors represent TVS in Nepal.
