The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 and Hero Xtreme 125R are two of the most exciting 125cc motorcycles in the Indian market. Both offer a combination of style, performance, and affordability, making them ideal choices for entry-level riders and those seeking a daily commuter with a sporty edge. While Bajaj’s Pulsar NS125 is known for its aggressive design and power-packed performance, Hero’s Xtreme 125R is lauded for its fuel efficiency and modern features. This article delves into the key features, specifications, price, and differences between these two bikes, providing a comprehensive comparison to help buyers make the right choice.
1. Engine and Performance
- Bajaj Pulsar NS125:
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is powered by a 124.4cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 11.99 hp at 8,500 rpm and 11 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox, offering smooth and efficient gear transitions. This bike is known for its peppy performance, especially in city conditions, with a top speed of around 105 km/h. The Pulsar NS125 is built for riders who want a blend of power and efficiency in a compact package. - Hero Xtreme 125R:
The Hero Xtreme 125R, on the other hand, is powered by a 124.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that generates 10.7 hp at 7,500 rpm and 10.6 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. This engine is also paired with a 5-speed gearbox. Although the Xtreme 125R doesn’t match the Pulsar NS125 in terms of power output, it makes up for it with a more refined and fuel-efficient engine, catering to daily commuters who prioritize mileage over speed.
2. Design and Styling
- Bajaj Pulsar NS125:
The Pulsar NS125 retains the signature aggressive styling of the Pulsar NS series, with sharp lines, a muscular fuel tank, and a sporty stance. The split seat design, tank shrouds, and angular headlamp give the bike a bold look. The NS125 also features a semi-digital instrument cluster, offering a mix of analog tachometer and digital speedometer with essential readouts like fuel level, trip meter, and odometer. - Hero Xtreme 125R:
The Hero Xtreme 125R adopts a more modern and minimalist approach in its design. It comes with a stylish LED headlamp, a sleek tail section, and sporty graphics. The Xtreme 125R’s design appeals to young riders looking for a bike that blends elegance with sportiness. The bike also features a fully digital instrument cluster, providing a cleaner and more futuristic layout compared to the Pulsar NS125. This digital console displays speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip information.
3. Features and Technology
- Bajaj Pulsar NS125:
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 comes with basic yet essential features such as a front disc brake, rear drum brake, tubeless tyres, and CBS (Combined Braking System) for enhanced safety. However, the bike misses out on features like LED lighting or a fully digital display, which could be seen as a drawback for tech-savvy riders. - Hero Xtreme 125R:
The Hero Xtreme 125R offers a more feature-rich package. It comes with full-LED lighting, including an LED headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators, which not only improve visibility but also add a premium touch to the bike. Additionally, the bike is equipped with a fully digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity for notifications, and smartphone pairing, giving it a tech advantage over the Pulsar NS125. The bike also features a side-stand engine cut-off for added safety.
4. Suspension and Brakes
- Bajaj Pulsar NS125:
The Pulsar NS125 is equipped with telescopic front forks and a Nitrox mono-shock at the rear, which offer decent ride comfort and handling. For braking, it features a 240mm front disc and a 130mm rear drum, combined with CBS. The suspension setup is tuned for a balance between comfort and sportiness, making it suitable for both city and occasional highway rides. - Hero Xtreme 125R:
The Hero Xtreme 125R features telescopic front forks and a mono-shock rear suspension, which provide a comfortable ride over city roads. In terms of braking, the Xtreme 125R comes with a 240mm front disc and a 130mm rear drum, similar to the Pulsar NS125, and also includes CBS for improved braking efficiency. The Xtreme 125R’s suspension setup is more focused on comfort and ease of handling, making it ideal for urban commuters.
5. Fuel Efficiency and Mileage
- Bajaj Pulsar NS125:
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 offers a fuel efficiency of around 50-55 km/l under standard riding conditions, making it a reasonably fuel-efficient option in the 125cc segment. The 12-liter fuel tank ensures that the bike has a decent range for daily commuting without frequent refueling stops. - Hero Xtreme 125R:
The Hero Xtreme 125R is more focused on delivering better fuel efficiency and offers a mileage of around 60-65 km/l, making it a better choice for riders who prioritize economy. The bike comes with an 11-liter fuel tank, which, coupled with its higher mileage, provides an extended range for long commutes.
6. Price and Variants
- Bajaj Pulsar NS125:
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is priced at approximately ₹1.05 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the more affordable options in the sporty 125cc segment. It is available in a single variant but offers multiple color options such as Burnt Red, Beach Blue, Pewter Grey, and Fiery Orange. - Hero Xtreme 125R:
The Hero Xtreme 125R is expected to be priced around ₹1.00 lakh (ex-showroom), slightly undercutting the Pulsar NS125. The Xtreme 125R is available in a single variant as well, but with trendy color options like Red, Blue, and Black to appeal to younger riders.
7. Conclusion: Which Bike to Choose?
The decision between the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 and Hero Xtreme 125R comes down to what you prioritize in a motorcycle. The Pulsar NS125 is the better option for those looking for a more powerful engine, sportier design, and a slightly more aggressive ride. It caters to riders who seek both performance and style.
On the other hand, the Hero Xtreme 125R is an excellent choice for commuters looking for a more refined ride, superior fuel efficiency, and modern features like full-LED lighting and a fully digital instrument cluster. Its slightly lower price tag and better mileage make it a practical and economical choice for daily city riders.
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