TVS Raider : TVS has been pushing hard to disrupt the commuter bike market, and now it’s aiming straight at the Hero Splendor India undisputed mileage king. With the Raider, TVS is not just targeting style-conscious youth, but also fuel-savvy riders looking for an everyday machine that doesn’t demand frequent fuel stops.
Raider brings a refreshing design, a feature-loaded package, and impressive real-world mileage. In a market where every kilometer per litre counts, Raider positions itself as the first real threat to the Splendor’s long-standing dominance. But how close can it really get to knocking Hero off the mileage throne? Let’s break it down from all angles.
Street-Ready Design with a Youth Twist
Unlike the traditional commuter look of the Splendor, the TVS Raider shows up with a streetfighter-inspired design. It features LED DRLs, a sculpted fuel tank, and a split seat that screams sport.
This bold, youthful look targets younger riders who want mileage without looking boring on the road. From city rides to small-town highways, the Raider’s appeal comes from looking like a premium bike while priced within reach of daily commuters.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency in Balance
The Raider runs on a 124.8cc air- and oil-cooled single-cylinder engine that delivers 11.2 bhp and 11.2 Nm of torque. It comes mated with a 5-speed gearbox, giving it more cruising ease than some of its 4-speed rivals. It feels smooth during low-speed rides and doesn’t hesitate when pushed to 70–80 km/h.
TVS claims a real-world mileage of 67 km/l, which puts it right in Splendor territory. More importantly, the Raider offers two ride modes Eco and Power making it the first in the category to do so. This gives the rider some control over performance vs economy.
Specifications Snapshot
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
Engine | 124.8cc, air and oil cooled |
Power | 11.2 bhp |
Torque | 11.2 Nm |
Gearbox | 5-speed manual |
Fuel Efficiency | 67 km/l (claimed) |
Seat Height | 780 mm |
Kerb Weight | 123 kg |
Fuel Tank | 10 litres |
Brakes | Front disc/drum, rear drum |
Smart Features That Actually Help
- Fully digital LCD cluster with gear position, real-time mileage, clock, and trip meters
- USB charger for phones and gadgets on the go
- Side-stand engine cut-off for safety
- Optional SmartXonnect Bluetooth system in top variants
- LED headlamp and tail lamp setup for better visibility
These are not gimmicks they actually make daily commutes easier and more informed.
Comfort for the Long Commute
Riders will feel the difference right away. The Raider has better cushioning, wide handlebars, and a well-sprung suspension setup that absorbs potholes better than the average commuter bike.
Even the pillion seat is wide and comfortable, making it viable for regular two-up rides. Its riding triangle is upright yet relaxed, and footpeg placement supports longer journeys without fatigue.
Price Tag and Buyer Strategy
The Raider is priced between INR 95,000 and INR 1.03 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant. This makes it slightly more expensive than the Hero Splendor, which starts closer to INR 75,000.
But for that premium, buyers get better design, higher performance, more features, and still excellent mileage. It’s aimed at younger office-goers and college students who want efficiency with personality.
Comparing the Giants
While Splendor rules rural India and budget buyers, Raider is capturing the urban and aspirational segment. Here’s how they differ.
- Mileage: Splendor leads slightly on paper (around 70–72 km/l), Raider follows closely at 67 km/l
- Design: Splendor is plain and simple, Raider is sharp and sporty
- Performance: Raider offers more power and a 5-speed gearbox
- Features: Raider packs more tech and real utility
- Comfort: Raider wins on ride quality and seat comfort
Tech Appeal and Trend Factor
One big edge Raider has is its modern appeal. It looks like it belongs in 2025. Digital meters, USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity all these things matter more to today’s buyers than a few extra kilometers per litre. Raider knows that and delivers. It’s becoming a trend in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, especially among first-time buyers.
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Launch Impact and Market Buzz
Since its launch, Raider has seen strong demand. TVS is expanding its supply chain to meet rising bookings.
Online searches for “TVS Raider mileage” and “Raider vs Splendor” have spiked, especially in South and West India. The buzz is real, and it’s cutting into Hero’s long-standing monopoly.
TVS Raider Conclusion
TVS Raider is not trying to be the next Splendor. It’s trying to be the better choice for today’s rider. It combines efficiency, style, tech, and comfort into one compact package.
For urban and semi-urban buyers, it’s a statement. Yes, Hero Splendor still holds the mileage crown by a small margin, but Raider delivers where the future is headed. In a commuter market full of copy-paste bikes, Raider stands tall with a clear identity.
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TVS has shown that mileage and modern features can go hand in hand and that makes the Raider a real rival in every sense.