Hero Xtreme 125R vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125

The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 aims to disrupt the 125cc segment with its sporty design and engaging performance. But can it dethrone latest segment favourite Hero Xtreme 125R? Let's find out.

• The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 boasts a sharper, big bike-inspired design compared to the Hero Xtreme 125R
• The fuel-injected 124.4cc motor of the NS125 produces marginally higher peak power and torque
• With better equipment like USD forks and radial rear tyre, the Pulsar NS125 promises enthusiastic performance

In terms of styling, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 looks more dynamic and aggressive. The Xtreme 125R also has an athletic stance but the NS125's sharper styling helps it grab more eyeballs.

Hero Xtreme 125R vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Design & Features

The 2024 Hero Xtreme 125R showcases a sporty design highlighted by its LED headlamp, muscular fuel tank, stubby exhaust and sharp body panels. For 2024, it gets new colour options and refreshed graphics.

The motorcycle is equipped with a digital-analog instrument cluster, LED taillight and alloy wheels. It also features side stand engine cut-off and auto sail function for convenience.

In comparison, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 sports an evocative big bike-inspired design that turns heads. It is defined by the aggressive wolf-inspired LED headlamp, chiselled 14-litre fuel tank, step-up split seat and wolf-themed graphics on the fairing.

The NS125 is equipped with a fully-digital instrument cluster with gear shift indicator, lap timer and more. Other features include LED lighting, engine kill switch and split grab rails.

Hero Xtreme 125R vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Engine & Performance

The 2024 Hero Xtreme 125R continues using the 124.6cc single-cylinder fuel-injected engine producing 10.2hp and 10.4Nm torque, paired to a 5-speed gearbox.

Hero has optimized the engine for stronger low and mid-range grunt. The motor feels refined with improved acceleration and efficiency.

Powering the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is a 124.4cc single-cylinder fuel-injected motor developing 12hp and 11Nm torque, connected to a 5-speed gearbox. This engine offers higher peak power and torque compared to the Xtreme 125R.

The NS125's engine delivers stronger acceleration and a responsive throttle feel. Bajaj has tuned it for max performance in the high RPM range. The fuel-efficiency is rated around 58kmpl.

Hero Xtreme 125R vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Underpinnings & Brakes

The Hero Xtreme 125R uses telescopic forks up front and an adjustable monoshock at the rear. Braking duties are handled by a 240mm front disc and 130mm rear drum brake. The disc variant gets a 190mm rear disc brake.

The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 benefits from beefier suspension - USD forks at the front and gas-charged twin shocks at the back. It gets a 300mm front petal disc and 230mm rear petal disc with dual-channel ABS.

The NS125's superior equipment like USD forks, radial rear tyre and bigger disc brakes give it an advantage in terms of dynamics and handling prowess over the Xtreme 125R.

Hero Xtreme 125R vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Dimensions & Weight

The Hero Xtreme 125R has an overall length of 2020mm, width of 780mm and height of 1087mm. The wheelbase measures 1270mm. It has a kerb weight of 122kg and 10.2 liters fuel tank capacity.

The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 measures 2055mm in length, 805mm in width and stands 1105mm tall with a 1355mm wheelbase. It tips the scales at 140kg and has a 12-litre fuel tank.

Both bikes have evenly matched dimensions. But the Pulsar NS125 gives a bigger bike feel due to its bigger fuel tank, wider rear tyre and added visual bulk. The Xtreme 125R weighs 18kg lesser, giving it an advantage in terms of agility.

Hero Xtreme 125R vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Pricing

The drum variant of Hero Xtreme 125R is priced at Rs. 95,000/- while the disc model retails for Rs. 99,500/- (ex-showroom).

In comparison, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is priced at Rs. 99,000/- for the drum version and Rs. 1.05 lakh for the disc model (ex-showroom).

Verdict

The Hero Xtreme 125R banks on its refined engine, nimble handling and competitive pricing to maintain its popularity. The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 aims to disrupt it with aggressive styling, enthusiastic performance and better equipment.

For buyers prioritizing sporty looks and engaging dynamics, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 makes a strong case as an exciting 125cc motorcycle. However, the well-rounded Hero Xtreme 125R with its maturity and value quotient remains a formidable opponent in this segment.