Honda SP 125 vs TVS Raider 125 : In the highly competitive 125cc motorcycle segment, two models have emerged as standout contenders – the Honda SP 125 and the TVS Raider 125.
Both offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and features, catering to the needs of urban commuters.
As buyers in this segment seek the perfect balance between practicality and excitement, let’s dive deep into how these two motorcycles stack up against each other.
Design and Styling: Contrasting Approaches
The Honda SP 125 and TVS Raider 125 take distinctly different approaches when it comes to design and styling.
The SP 125 follows a more traditional, muscular aesthetic, with a prominent tiger-nose grille and sleek LED headlamps that give it a bold, commanding presence on the road.
In contrast, the Raider 125 embraces a sportier, more youthful look, with its distinctive bug-eye LED headlights and dynamic body lines.
While the SP 125 exudes a sense of maturity and refinement, the Raider 125 is aimed at attracting younger riders who appreciate a more attention-grabbing appearance.
Both motorcycles offer a range of vibrant color options, allowing buyers to express their personal style.
Feature Showdown: Packed with Tech
When it comes to features, both the Honda SP 125 and TVS Raider 125 come equipped with a host of modern amenities that elevate the overall ownership experience.
The SP 125 boasts a fully digital instrument cluster that displays a wealth of information, including real-time fuel efficiency, distance-to-empty, and service due indicators. It also offers the convenience of a side-stand engine cut-off feature for added safety.
On the other hand, the Raider 125 takes the tech game to the next level. The top-end variant comes with a full-color TFT display, a first in the 125cc segment.
This screen not only provides clear and crisp information but also enables smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth, allowing riders to access features like turn-by-turn navigation, call and message alerts, and even voice commands.
Both motorcycles also offer USB charging ports, allowing riders to keep their devices powered on the go.
However, the Raider 125’s placement of the USB port near the fuel tank lid is more conveniently located than the SP 125’s setup.
Performance and Efficiency: Balancing Power and Practicality
Under the hood, the Honda SP 125 and TVS Raider 125 employ different approaches to power delivery, each catering to a specific set of rider preferences.
The SP 125 is powered by a 124cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 10.7 PS of power and 10.9 Nm of torque.
This setup is tuned for a smooth, refined riding experience, with the engine remaining relatively vibration-free even at higher speeds.
The transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic (DCT).
In contrast, the Raider 125 boasts a 124.8cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that churns out 11.32 PS of power and 11.2 Nm of torque.
This slightly more powerful mill, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, offers a more spirited and engaging riding experience, especially in the city.
The Raider 125 also features two riding modes – Eco and Power – allowing riders to tailor the performance to their needs.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, both motorcycles excel, with the SP 125 claiming a mileage of up to 60 kmpl and the Raider 125 delivering an impressive 65.44 kmpl (as per ARAI testing).
This makes them both excellent choices for urban commuters looking to keep their running costs in check.
Ride and Handling: Agility and Stability
The Honda SP 125 and TVS Raider 125 both exhibit well-balanced ride and handling characteristics, catering to the needs of city riders.
The SP 125 features a telescopic fork suspension upfront and a 5-way adjustable monoshock at the rear, providing a comfortable and composed ride quality.
The steering is light and responsive, making the bike easy to maneuver through tight city traffic.
The Raider 125, on the other hand, boasts a similar suspension setup, but with a slightly sportier tuning.
This translates to a more engaging handling experience, with the bike feeling nimble and eager to change direction.
The steering is also well-weighted, offering good feedback to the rider.
Both motorcycles come equipped with disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear, with the Raider 125 offering the option of a front disc on higher variants.
The inclusion of combined braking systems on both models enhances safety and stability during emergency braking situations.
Safety and Connectivity: Prioritizing Protection and Convenience
In the realm of safety, the Honda SP 125 and TVS Raider 125 have taken significant strides to ensure the well-being of their riders.
The SP 125 comes standard with six airbags, a segment-first feature that sets a new benchmark for safety in the 125cc class.
It also offers ABS, EBD, and a tire pressure monitoring system for added peace of mind.
The Raider 125, while not offering airbags, does come equipped with features like a side-stand engine cut-off, helmet reminder, and synchronized braking technology.
The top-end variant also boasts a 360-degree camera system, making it easier to navigate tight spaces.
In terms of connectivity, the Raider 125 takes the lead with its Bluetooth-enabled TFT display, which allows riders to access turn-by-turn navigation, call and message alerts, and even voice commands.
The SP 125, while lacking this level of advanced connectivity, does offer a more basic set of connected features through the Suzuki Connect app.
Pricing and Variants: Something for Every Budget
The Honda SP 125 and TVS Raider 125 cater to a wide range of budgets, with both manufacturers offering multiple variants to suit different preferences.
The SP 125 is available in two variants – Drum and Disc – with prices ranging from ₹91,468 to ₹97,985 (ex-showroom, Delhi).
The Raider 125, on the other hand, starts at ₹95,439 for the base single-seat variant and goes up to ₹1,03,830 for the top-end SX variant with the TFT display and Bluetooth connectivity.
While the Raider 125 is priced slightly higher than the SP 125, it offers a more feature-rich package, especially in the top-end trim.
Buyers looking for a more affordable option may find the SP 125 Drum variant to be a compelling choice.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Fit
The Honda SP 125 and TVS Raider 125 are both excellent contenders in the 125cc commuter segment, each offering a unique set of strengths that cater to different rider preferences.
The SP 125 excels in its refined, comfortable, and practical approach, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and hassle-free daily commuter.
Its comprehensive safety features and Maruti Suzuki’s renowned after-sales support further bolster its appeal.
The Raider 125, on the other hand, is a more performance-oriented and tech-savvy offering, targeting younger riders who desire a sportier riding experience and cutting-edge features.
Its Bluetooth connectivity and customizable riding modes set it apart in the segment.
Ultimately, the choice between the Honda SP 125 and TVS Raider 125 will depend on the individual buyer’s priorities – whether they value a more traditional, refined experience or a more youthful, feature-packed motorcycle.
Both bikes offer excellent value for money and are worthy contenders in the highly competitive 125cc commuter market.