The 125cc motorcycle space has become quite progressive in the past few years. The segment has seen new entrants that not only pack the commuter essence one would expect but also a dash of youthfulness in the overall package. Two of the most recently launched 125cc bikes in India are the Hero Xtreme 125R and the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS125. We have compared them on paper and here is the result.
Design
With the Xtreme 125R, Hero MotoCorp has introduced a wave of freshness in the 125cc segment. The bike has a distinctive and eye-catching design with its sharp and futuristic fascia, muscular fuel tank carved with cuts, and a sleek side profile. It looks very appealing and enticing. On the other hand, the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS125 has carried over the design of the previous iteration. However, the Chakan-originated commuter has been refreshed with a new headlight setup that comprises thunder-shaped LED DRLs with low and high beams in the centre.
Features
Hero has loaded its latest commuter bike with all-LED illumination and a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity for call and message alerts. Similarly, with its new update, the Pulsar NS125 also gets a fully digital console with smartphone connectivity for calls/SMS alerts, battery level, and other details. It too gets full LED illumination now.
Hardware
Both motorcycles ride on conventional telescopic front forks and a monoshock, while the braking is done by a front disc and rear drum setup. These are mounted on 17-inch wheels. However, the Xtreme takes a point here since it gets a larger front and rear tyre. It comes with a 90/90 front and 120/80 rear tyre, while the NS rides on 80/100 front and 100/90 rear tyre. This means the Xtreme will not only offer more stability but also more traction overall.
Engine
Powering the Hero Xtreme 125R is a 125cc, single-cylinder engine with a five-speed gearbox. It makes 11.8bhp and 11Nm. On the other hand, the NS125 uses a 124.7cc, air-cooled engine that develops 11.4bhp at 8,250rpm and 10.5Nm at 6,000rpm. It comes mated to a five-speed gearbox. As seen above, the Xtreme makes marginally more power and torque.
Price
The asking price for the Hero Xtreme 125R is Rs. 95,000 for the base model and Rs. 99,500 for the ABS trim. Meanwhile, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is priced at Rs. 1,04,922 (ex-showroom, Delhi) and is Rs. 5,000 more expensive than the top-spec Hero Xtreme 125R.