Explained Hero Xtreme 125R vs Bajaj Pulsar NS 125: Budget Bikes Comparison (2024)

Hero Xtreme 125R vs Bajaj Pulsar NS 125: In the thrilling arena of budget 125cc motorcycles, two titans duke it out for dominance – the Hero Xtreme 125R and the Bajaj Pulsar NS 125. Both hailing from Indian motorcycle giants, these sporty steeds promise exhilaration, practicality, and style at an entry-level price. But for the discerning rider, the question burns – who wears the crown?

Engine and Performance:

Under their hoods, both bikes house pulsating 125cc single-cylinder engines, each with distinct personalities. The Hero Xtreme 125R’s 11.4bhp and 10.5Nm offer a balanced, refined ride, ideal for daily commutes. The Pulsar NS 125, on the other hand, unleashes a slightly wilder 11.99bhp and 11Nm, translating to punchier acceleration and an adrenaline rush for spirited rides. However, fuel efficiency tilts towards the Xtreme 125R, claiming an ARAI mileage of 70.15 kmpl compared to the NS 125’s 56.46 kmpl.

Ride and Handling:

Both bikes boast telescopic forks upfront and mono-shock suspensions at the rear, ensuring a comfortable and controlled ride. The Xtreme 125R’s slightly longer wheelbase offers a touch more stability at high speeds, while the NS 125’s agility shines in tight city spaces. Ultimately, handling is a matter of personal preference, so a test ride is recommended to feel which suits your riding style better.

Braking and Safety:

This is where the Hero Xtreme 125R takes the lead again. While both bikes come equipped with disc brakes at both ends, the Xtreme 125R boasts standard single-channel ABS, a significant safety advantage over the NS 125’s drum brakes. The NS 125 can be upgraded to ABS, but it comes at an additional cost.

• ABS: Hero Xtreme 125R comes equipped with standard single-channel ABS, offering a significant safety advantage over the Pulsar NS 125’s drum brakes. ABS improves control and prevents wheel lockup during emergency braking, especially on wet roads.
• Rear Brake: Both bikes have disc brakes at the front, but the Pulsar NS 125 comes with a drum brake at the rear as standard. However, an optional disc brake with ABS is available for the NS 125 at an additional cost.
• Headlight: Hero Xtreme 125R boasts a brighter and more efficient LED headlight compared to the Pulsar NS 125’s halogen headlight.
• Both bikes offer tubeless tires, which are more resistant to punctures and easier to repair.
• Both bikes feature digital instrument clusters that provide information such as speed, fuel level, trip meter, and odometer.

Hero Xtreme 125R vs TVS Raider 125: Budget Bikes Comparison (2024)

Features and Design:

The Xtreme 125R dons a sporty streetfighter-inspired design with sharp lines and aggressive angles, appealing to riders who crave a bold presence. The Pulsar NS 125 showcases a muscular, youthful aesthetic with prominent bodywork and LED headlamps, catering to those who value style and modernity. In terms of features, both bikes offer digital instrument clusters and LED tail lamps, but the Xtreme 125R edges ahead with its smartphone connectivity feature and adjustable brightness instrument cluster.

• The Hero Xtreme 125R’s design features sharp lines and aggressive angles, appealing to riders who prefer a bold presence.
• The Bajaj Pulsar NS 125 showcases a muscular, youthful aesthetic with prominent bodywork and LED headlamps, catering to those who value style and modernity.
• Both bikes offer digital instrument clusters that provide essential information. The Xtreme 125R’s cluster has the added benefit of adjustable brightness.
• The Hero Xtreme 125R offers optional features like a USB charging port and smartphone connectivity, which are not available on the Pulsar NS 125.

Price and Availability:

The Hero Xtreme 125R kicks off at ₹95,000 (ex-showroom) for the single-channel ABS variant, while the Bajaj Pulsar NS 125 starts at ₹99,571 (ex-showroom). This slightly higher price point for the NS 125 includes features like split seats and hazard lamps, which are absent in the base Xtreme 125R variant. In terms of availability, both bikes are fairly widespread across India.

Choosing between the Hero Xtreme 125R and Pulsar NS 125 is a close call, as both bikes offer compelling arguments. Consider these factors for your decision:

• Performance and Efficiency: Xtreme 125R for refinement and mileage, NS 125 for raw power.
• City Riding: Both are agile, but NS 125 might be slightly easier to maneuver.
• Safety: Xtreme 125R wins with standard ABS.
• Budget: Xtreme 125R starts slightly cheaper, but NS 125 base variant offers more features.
• Design: A matter of personal preference between sporty (Xtreme) and muscular (NS).

Ultimately, the champion 125cc motorcycle for you depends on your individual priorities and riding style. Take both bikes for a spin, analyze your needs, and choose the one that resonates with your inner rider. Remember, in the arena of budget 125cc battles, both the Hero Xtreme 125R and Bajaj Pulsar NS 125 are valiant contenders, each ready to claim the crown for the perfect riding partner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)