The TVS Raider 125 is making waves in India’s 125cc motorcycle segment. Its bold design, impressive performance, and smart features offer more than just daily commuting. However, with six variants, choosing the right one can be confusing. Let’s break it down.

TVS Raider 125 Variants

  1. Drum – The base model with drum brakes.
  2. Single Seat – Disc – Gets a front disc brake and a single-piece seat.
  3. Split Seat – Disc – Features a split-seat setup and a front disc brake.
  4. iGO – Boost Mode – Adds Idle Stop-Go technology and a Boost Mode for extra acceleration.
  5. Super Squad Edition – Marvel superhero graphics for fans.
  6. SmartXonnect – This is the top variant with a Bluetooth-enabled TFT screen.

What’s the Difference?

The base Drum variant starts at ₹85,010 (ex-showroom) and keeps things simple with drum brakes and a single seat. If stopping power matters, the Single Seat-Disc (₹96,010) adds a front disc brake. Prefer a sportier split seat? The Split Seat-Disc (₹97,850) adds under-seat storage.

For tech lovers, the iGO-Boost Mode (₹98,530) adds idle stop-go tech to save fuel and a “Boost” button for quick overtakes. Marvel fans get the Super Squad Edition (₹1.01 lakh) with Iron Man or Black Panther graphics. And the top-spec SmartXonnect (₹1.04 lakh) packs a 5-inch Bluetooth screen for navigation, calls, and music control.

Performance & Features

Regardless of the variant, the TVS Raider 125 packs a 124.8cc engine delivering 11.38 PS power and 11.2 Nm torque. The iGO variant bumps torque up to 11.75 Nm.

The Eco & Power riding modes let you tweak performance based on riding conditions. A 10-liter fuel tank ensures fewer fuel stops, and the LED headlight keeps it stylish.

Price vs. Features

The Drum variant is the cheapest, but skipping the disc brake saves you ₹11,000 at the cost of safety. The Split Seat-Disc costs just ₹1,840 more than the Single Seat. The iGO variant’s fuel-saving tech is great for stop-and-go traffic, but only in grey.

The SmartXonnect is the priciest, but that TFT screen feels futuristic. Want superhero flair? The Super Squad Edition costs ₹2,600 extra over the Split Seat—worth it if you’re into bold looks.

Should You Go for Disc Brakes?

Drum brakes are fine for city commuting, but disc brakes offer better stopping power, especially in emergencies. If safety matters, the extra ₹11,000 for a disc brake variant is worth it.

TVS Raider 125 vs. Competitors

Honda SP 125

The SP 125 has a refined engine and fuel efficiency. But the Raider 125 beats it in styling, power, and tech, especially with the SmartXonnect variant.

Hero Xtreme 125R

The Xtreme 125R is another sporty rival. It has aggressive styling but lacks the connectivity and riding modes that make the Raider 125 stand out.

Read: TVS Raider 125 Long-Term Review: After 6 Months & 5,200 kms.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

  • Drum: Cheap, but drum brakes can feel shaky in the rain.
  • Disc variants: Safer stops, but tires might slip on wet roads (swap them if you ride in rain often).
  • SmartXonnect: Cool tech, but some users report app glitches.
  • All variants: Gear shifts can be noisy, and the low seat might feel cramped for tall riders.

Which One to Buy?

  • On a tight budget? Go for the Drum variant.
  • Want better braking? The Split Seat – Disc is a solid choice.
  • Need fuel efficiency & extra performance? Pick the iGO – Boost Mode.
  • Love Marvel? The Super Squad Edition is for you.
  • Want high-tech features? The SmartXonnect variant is the best option.

Check out the TVS Apache RTX 300, showcased at the Bharat Expo Launch & Price.