At 21Motoring, our team has extensively ridden both the TVS Raider 125 and Honda SP 125 across city traffic, highways, and varied Indian road conditions throughout 2025 and 2026. We tested them back-to-back with different riders, pillion loads, and riding styles to evaluate real-world performance, comfort, mileage, features, and long-term ownership experience.
These two 125cc motorcycles target budget-conscious buyers seeking a blend of sporty appeal and everyday practicality. The TVS Raider 125 positions itself as a youthful, feature-rich performer, while the Honda SP 125 emphasises reliability, refinement, and superior fuel efficiency. This in-depth comparison helps you decide the better choice for your needs in 2026.
Engine, Performance and Riding Dynamics
We tested both bikes on the same routes for fair assessment. The TVS Raider 125 features a 124.8 cc air-oil cooled engine producing 11.38 PS at 7500 rpm and 11.2 Nm torque at 6000 rpm. It feels peppy with good mid-range punch, making overtakes easier in city and highway conditions. Riding modes (Eco and Power) and iGO variants with boost mode add versatility.
The Honda SP 125 comes with a 123.94 cc air-cooled engine delivering around 10.72-10.87 PS and 10.9 Nm torque. It offers smoother, more linear power delivery and exceptional refinement with minimal vibrations, ideal for long commutes.
In our acceleration tests, the Raider feels quicker off the line and more engaging for enthusiasts. The Honda excels in effortless cruising and overall smoothness.
Mileage and Efficiency: Real-World Figures
Honda holds the edge in fuel efficiency. ARAI claims for the SP 125 hover around 60-65 kmpl, with our real-world mixed riding returning 55-63 kmpl. The Raider claims 56-71 kmpl depending on variant and mode, but we observed 50-60 kmpl in typical use, dropping further in Power mode.
For riders covering 1,000-1,500 km monthly at current 2026 petrol prices (around ₹100/litre), the Honda offers noticeable savings on fuel.
Design, Features and Practicality
The TVS Raider 125 adopts a sporty streetfighter design with sharp lines, LED headlamp, and premium graphics. Higher variants include digital TFT displays, Bluetooth connectivity (SmartXonnect), navigation, call/SMS alerts, and dual disc brakes with ABS options.
The Honda SP 125 has a clean, premium commuter look with modern graphics. It offers a fully digital instrument cluster in top variants, LED lighting, and Honda’s reliable build. It provides slightly better pillion comfort due to a wider seat.
Key Specifications Comparison Table
| Parameter | TVS Raider 125 | Honda SP 125 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 124.8 cc, air-oil cooled | 123.94 cc, air-cooled |
| Power | 11.38 PS @ 7500 rpm | 10.72-10.87 PS @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | 11.2 Nm @ 6000 rpm | 10.9 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| ARAI Mileage | 56-71 kmpl | 60-65 kmpl |
| Real-World Mileage | 50-60 kmpl | 55-63 kmpl |
| Brakes | Drum / Disc (ABS in top) | Drum / Disc |
| Features | TFT, Bluetooth, Riding Modes | Digital Cluster, Eco Indicator |
| Kerb Weight | 123-125 kg | 117 kg |
| Price Range (Ex-showroom, May 2026) | ₹85,000 – ₹99,000 | ₹89,000 – ₹96,000 |
Safety and Handling
Both bikes handle well in Indian conditions with good stability up to 80-90 kmph. The Raider offers better braking performance in higher variants with disc brakes and ABS. The Honda provides confident, progressive braking and lighter weight for easier manoeuvrability in traffic. Ground clearance is adequate on both for bad roads.
Variant-Wise Pricing and Recommendations
TVS Raider 125 starts at around ₹85,000 for the drum variant and goes up to ₹99,000 for TFT ABS models. We recommend mid to higher variants (Single Seat Disc or iGO) for the best balance of features and performance.
Honda SP 125 ranges from ₹89,000 to ₹96,000. The Disc variant is worth considering for better stopping power and modern console.
Real-World Ownership Insights
In our long-term testing:
- TVS Raider: More fun to ride with sportier character, modern features, and strong brand appeal among younger riders. Service is widespread and improving.
- Honda SP 125: Superior refinement, proven reliability, better resale value, and lower overall running costs. Honda’s vast service network ensures peace of mind.
Maintenance costs are low for both (₹1,500-3,000 annually), with Honda traditionally edging out in longevity.
Pros and Cons
TVS Raider 125 Pros:
- Sportier performance and design
- Feature-loaded higher variants
- Engaging ride with riding modes
- Competitive pricing
TVS Raider 125 Cons:
- Slightly lower real-world mileage
- More vibrations at higher rpm compared to Honda
Honda SP 125 Pros:
- Excellent fuel efficiency and refinement
- Proven reliability and strong resale
- Comfortable for daily long commutes
- Smooth and vibration-free engine
Honda SP 125 Cons:
- Less exciting performance
- Fewer modern features than top Raider variants
21Motoring Verdict and Buying Recommendation
After thousands of kilometres of real-world testing, the TVS Raider 125 emerges as the better budget sports motorcycle for enthusiasts and younger riders who want style, features, and peppy performance. It delivers more excitement without significantly compromising practicality.
However, if your priority is maximum mileage, refinement, reliability, and long-term stress-free ownership, the Honda SP 125 is the wiser choice for most daily commuters.
We recommend test-riding both extensively. For budgets under ₹1 lakh on-road and sporty aspirations, go with the Raider. For pure efficiency and Honda trust, choose the SP 125. Calculate your annual mileage and preferences before finalising.
