The 125cc motorcycle segment in India is fiercely competitive, with brands like Bajaj (Pulsar) and TVS (Apache) dominating the market. But Hero MotoCorp has stepped up its game with the all-Hero Xtreme 125R Launched, promising 66 km/l mileage, a 95 km/h top speed, and sporty styling.
The big question is: Does the Hero Xtreme 125R have what it takes to outperform rivals like the Bajaj Pulsar 125 and TVS Apache RTR 125? Let’s dive deep into its design, performance, features, mileage, and pricing to find out if it’s the best choice in the 125cc segment.
1. Hero Xtreme 125R Launched: Design & Styling
The Xtreme 125R borrows its aggressive looks from its bigger sibling, the Xtreme 160R, making it one of the most stylish bikes in the 125cc category.
Key Design Highlights:
✔ LED Headlamp & DRLs – Sharp, modern look
✔ Sporty Split Seat – Comfortable for rider and pillion
✔ Muscular Fuel Tank – Adds a premium feel
✔ Aero Winglets – Inspired by sportbikes for better aerodynamics
✔ Dual-Tone Color Options – Bold and youthful appeal
Verdict: The Xtreme 125R stands out with its premium, sporty design, easily competing with the Pulsar 125’s naked streetfighter look and the Apache RTR 125’s sharp styling.
2. Engine & Performance: 66 km/l Mileage & 95 km/h Top Speed
The Hero Xtreme 125R is powered by a 124.7cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces:
✔ 11.4 bhp @ 8,750 rpm
✔ 11 Nm torque @ 6,500 rpm
✔ 5-speed gearbox
Performance Comparison (125cc Segment)
| Bike | Power | Torque | Mileage (Claimed) | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Xtreme 125R | 11.4 bhp | 11 Nm | 66 km/l | 95 km/h |
| Bajaj Pulsar 125 | 11.8 bhp | 11 Nm | 55-60 km/l | 100 km/h |
| TVS Apache RTR 125 | 12 bhp | 11.2 Nm | 55-60 km/l | 105 km/h |
Real-World Ride Experience:
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Acceleration: Smooth and linear, best suited for city rides.
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Top Speed: Comfortably cruises at 85-90 km/h, with a max of 95 km/h.
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Mileage: Delivers 60-65 km/l in city conditions and 65-70 km/l on highways.
Verdict: The Xtreme 125R prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright power, making it ideal for daily commuters. The Pulsar 125 and Apache RTR 125 offer slightly better performance, but the Xtreme 125R wins in mileage.
3. Features & Technology
Hero has loaded the Xtreme 125R with some impressive features for a 125cc bike:
Key Features:
✔ Full-LED Lighting (Headlamp, Taillamp, DRLs)
✔ Digital Instrument Cluster (Speedometer, Gear Indicator, Fuel Gauge)
✔ Side Stand Engine Cut-Off (Safety Feature)
✔ Single-Channel ABS (For Better Braking)
✔ Tubeless Tyres (Puncture-Resistant)
Comparison with Rivals:
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Pulsar 125 offers a semi-digital console but misses LED lighting.
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Apache RTR 125 gets Glide Through Technology (GTT) and a fully digital display.
Verdict: The Apache RTR 125 leads in features, but the Xtreme 125R offers a good balance of tech and affordability.
4. Ride & Handling: Comfort vs Sportiness
The Xtreme 125R gets a diamond-type frame, offering a stable ride.
Suspension & Braking:
✔ Front: Telescopic forks
✔ Rear: Monoshock (Better than Pulsar’s twin shocks)
✔ Brakes: 276mm front disc + 130mm rear drum (Single-channel ABS)
Handling Comparison:
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Hero Xtreme 125R: Well-balanced, comfortable for city rides.
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Bajaj Pulsar 125: Slightly stiffer suspension, sportier feel.
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TVS Apache RTR 125: Best handling, thanks to its RTR race-inspired setup.
Verdict: The Apache RTR 125 is the most agile, while the Xtreme 125R offers a smoother ride.
5. Price & Variants: Is It Worth the Money?
The Hero Xtreme 125R is priced competitively:
✔ Hero Xtreme 125R (Drum): ₹95,000 (ex-showroom)
✔ Hero Xtreme 125R (Disc): ₹1,00,000 (ex-showroom)
Price Comparison (Ex-Showroom):
| Bike | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Hero Xtreme 125R | ₹95,000 |
| Bajaj Pulsar 125 | ₹90,000 |
| TVS Apache RTR 125 | ₹1,02,000 |
Verdict: The Pulsar 125 is the cheapest, while the Apache RTR 125 is the most expensive. The Xtreme 125R sits in the middle, offering better features than the Pulsar at a lower price than the Apache.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Hero Xtreme 125R Over Pulsar & Apache?
Buy the Hero Xtreme 125R If:
✔ You want best-in-class mileage (66 km/l)
✔ You prefer premium styling with LED lights
✔ You need a comfortable commuter with sporty looks
Choose Bajaj Pulsar 125 If:
✔ You want a more affordable 125cc bike
✔ You like the Pulsar brand’s streetfighter appeal
Go for TVS Apache RTR 125 If:
✔ You want the best performance & handling
✔ You prefer a fully digital console & GTT
Conclusion: The Best 125cc Bike?
The Hero Xtreme 125R is a strong contender in the 125cc segment, offering a perfect mix of style, mileage, and features. While the Apache RTR 125 is more performance-oriented, and the Pulsar 125 is more affordable, the Xtreme 125R strikes a great balance.
Final Answer: If mileage and looks are your priority, the Hero Xtreme 125R is the best pick. But if you want sheer performance, the Apache RTR 125 is better, and if you’re budget-conscious, the Pulsar 125 makes sense.