Top 125 cc bikes in India -A clear guide (2025)

Here’s the thing: the 125 cc segment is the sweet spot for many Indian riders. It’s affordable, frugal on fuel, easy to ride in city traffic, and offers enough punch for highway runs. Whether you want a sporty commuter or a comfortable daily rider, there’s a 125 for you. In this article I’ll break down the best options in India, what to look for, and how the main models compare—with real specs, prices, and numbers so you can decide fast.

Why 125 cc makes sense for India

125 cc bikes sit between the tiny 100 cc commuters and the heavier 150+ cc machines. What this means in practice:

• Better mid-range power for overtakes and short highway hops.

• Still very economical—many 125s return 55–70 kmpl in real use.

• Insurance, maintenance, and loan EMI stay reasonable compared with larger bikes.
  These qualities keep the 125cc among the most competitive segments in India. Recent launches and updates show manufacturers keep investing here because demand remains strong.

How I picked the Top 125 cc bikes in India

I prioritized bikes that combine:

• real-world fuel economy and sensible power,

• modern features (digital console, LED lights, braking systems),

• strong dealer/after-sales network,

• competitive pricing for India in 2025.
  Below are the bikes that consistently score well on those points.

1. TVS Raider 125—best for all-rounders

Why it stands out: sharp styling, peppy engine, and good feature list for the money. TVS highlights the Raider’s riding modes, modern digital display, and strong acceleration for the class. Claimed mileage is impressive, and the company positions it as a rider-friendly sporty commuter. Price (ex-showroom Delhi) sits under ₹1.05 lakh in most trims.

Quick facts

• Engine: 124.8 cc

• Power: ~11.2 PS

• Notable: ride modes and a reverse LCD cluster in the segment

• Price: around ₹87k–₹1.03 lakh (ex-showroom) depending on variant.

Real-life note: many riders who switch from 100–110 cc bikes notice a clear improvement in mid-range pickup without a huge fuel penalty.

2. Bajaj Pulsar 125 / Pulsar NS125—best for performance-minded buyers

Why it stands out: The Pulsar badge still means sporty intent. Bajaj’s 125s are tuned for stronger performance and sharper handling than basic commuters. The NS125 especially pushes power figures higher in the segment. If you want a 125 that feels livelier on open roads, this is a top pick.

Quick facts

• Engine: ~124.4–124.45 cc

• Power: up to 12 PS (NS125)

• Claimed mileage: 60+ kmpl in many official figures; real-world varies with riding style.

Real-life note: Owners praise the Pulsar for stable dynamics and reliable build—at a slightly higher price than basic commuters.

Must Read: Aprilia SR 175: India’s most powerful scooter? Know features, price and everything

3. Hero Xtreme 125R—sporty look, strong value

Why it stands out: Hero’s attempt to give buyers a sporty 125 with a strong mileage claim. It’s lightweight, sharp-looking, and competitively priced—a sensible option if you want style without the expense of a 150.

Quick facts

• Engine: 124.7 cc

• Power: ~11.4 bhp

• Claimed mileage: the manufacturer quotes high figures (mid-60s kmpl).

• Price: generally in the ₹99k–₹1.03 lakh band depending on the variant.

4. Honda SP 125—best for long-term reliability and resale

Why it stands out: Honda’s SP 125 is intentionally refined. It’s not the most exciting bike on paper, but it’s reliable, comfortable, and cheap to run. Honda also prices it attractively to bite into commuter buyers. If you plan to keep a bike for years or care about resale, the SP 125 is a calm, sensible choice.

Quick facts

• Engine: 123.94 cc

• Power: around 10–11 PS

• Price: Drum and disc trims are available; pricing is competitive (varies by city).

5. Yamaha RayZR 125 / NTorq family (scooters)—best if you want a 125 scooter

Why it stands out: not everyone wants a motorcycle. 125cc scooters like Yamaha’s RayZR or the NTorq line deliver scooter convenience with enough performance for city plus occasional highway. Yamaha keeps prices competitive and offers hybrid/fuel-saver tech on some trims.

Quick facts

• Engine: 125 cc class scooters

• Features: hybrid tech in some trims, strong urban practicality

• Price: generally ₹79k–₹92k ex-showroom for many Yamaha 125 scooters.

6. Hero Super Splendor XTEC—best commuter balance

Why it stands out: many commuters want maximum mileage and low running costs. Hero’s Super Splendor XTEC gives a modern feature set on a tried-and-tested platform, delivering strong fuel economy with a 125cc engine. It’s an everyday workhorse.

Quick facts

• Engine: 124.7 cc

• Power: ~10.7 bhp

• Price: launched around mid-80k to 92k ex-showroom for 2025 updates.

Short comparison table (high-level)

Real-life buying tips

1. Test-ride first. A 125 that feels lively to one rider might feel nervous to another. Test the real-world low-end punch and comfort.

2. Check service network. In Indian cities, access to quick service and spare parts matters more than a small spec advantage.

3. Think long-term costs: tire size, fuel efficiency, insurance class, and typical replacement parts.

4. If you ride two-up often, choose a bike with a comfortable seat and stable chassis, even if it costs a little more.

Final verdict—how to choose

• Want a sporty feel and better mid-range? Look at the Pulsar NS125 or Xtreme 125R.

• Want a mmodern,feature-packed commuter? TVS Raider 125 is a great all-rounder.

• Want rock-solid reliability and resale? Honda SP 125 or Hero Super Splendor XTEC.

• Prefer scooter convenience? Yamaha RayZR/NTorq 125 options make sense.

125 cc is a practical, cost-effective package for city riders who still want usable power. Prices and small feature changes happen often, so use the numbers here to shortlist and then confirm the latest showroom price and available variants in your city before you buy. For the most accurate local details, check official dealer sites or trusted portals—I used manufacturer and industry sources to write this summary.