By For someone who follows the motorbikes market, especially in the commuter class, I realize the 125cc segment is very interesting. Why? Well, this is the part where utilitarianism, economy, and accessible fuel economy are found—making it popular among many Indians. The motorcycle sales data of India for January 2024 revealed some interesting trends in respect of Honda Shine, Bajaj Pulsar, TVS Raider, Hero Splendor, and Hero Glamour motorcycle brands. Okay, let’s go one step further and find out what is actually happening with these bicycles, and why one of them is standing its ground, and the other one is falling flat on its face?
The January 2024 Sales Race: Who’s Leading?
When we look at the sales numbers for these five bikes, Honda Shinecontinues to be the front-runner. It’s no surprise, really. Shine has consistently delivered a blend of reliability, fuel efficiency, and just enough power for daily commutes. As someone who’s ridden a Shine myself, I can tell you it’s one of those bikes that just works—no drama, no fuss, just reliable. It’s often the bike you recommend when someone asks, “What’s a good commuter bike under 125cc?”
Hero Splendor follows closely, but it has a slightly different market pull. While it’s not as powerful as the Shine, Splendor’s been a household name for decades. Its simplicity and bulletproof reliability are what draw people in. There’s a reason you see Splendors everywhere, from rural roads to urban streets—it’s the workhorse of Indian roads. I’ve had neighbors swear by their Splendors, riding them for years without major issues.
But what about the more flashy entries? Bajaj Pulsar and TVS Raider bring some much-needed spice to the 125cc segment. Pulsar has always been a favorite for those who want a commuter bike with a bit of an edge, a little more sporty and aggressive in its design. I’ve always appreciated Pulsar for not being just another vanilla commuter bike—it has personality.
On the other hand, TVS Raider is the underdog that’s quickly gaining ground. With its sharp looks and tech-packed features, it’s pulling in younger riders who want more than just point A to point B travel. Raider stands out with features like a digital display and riding modes that are usually reserved for more expensive bikes. It’s impressive how TVS has managed to pack so much into this bike. I took a Raider for a spin recently, and honestly, it’s a fun little machine that doesn’t feel like your typical commuter.
Hero Glamour, meanwhile, sits somewhere in the middle. It’s a solid bike that doesn’t make a lot of noise but gets the job done. I find Glamour to be a decent pick if you want a balance between practicality and style without going too extreme in either direction. Its i3S tech helps with fuel efficiency, which is a big plus if you’re commuting long distances.
Comparing Shine, Pulsar, Raider, Splendor, and Glamour: What’s Each Bike Got?
Honda Shine: The All-Rounder
Shine is the bike you choose when you want a hassle-free experience. Its 124cc engine puts out a smooth 10.7 bhp, which isn’t exactly adrenaline-pumping but gets you through city traffic effortlessly. Plus, the refinement of Honda engines is something I always appreciate—it’s a bike that doesn’t make a fuss. Shine also excels in fuel efficiency, which is key for daily riders. It’s no wonder it continues to top the charts in sales month after month.
Bajaj Pulsar 125: Sporty Yet Practical
Now, Pulsar has always been the bike that’s just a little bit more than a commuter. The Pulsar 125 with its 12 bhp engine feels punchier than its competition, and that’s exactly what draws in riders who want a bit more excitement in their daily ride. The design is classic Pulsar—muscular and aggressive. What I love about the Pulsar is how it bridges the gap between being a practical commuter and a fun weekend ride. It’s like a bike with dual personalities, and I dig that.
TVS Raider: The Tech-Savvy Option
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—TVS Raider is the dark horse here. The Raider comes with a 124.8cc engine producing 11.2 bhp, but it’s not just the numbers that make it stand out. It’s the extra features—riding modes, a digital console, and even a silent start system. If you’re someone who likes your bike to feel modern and tech-forward, Raider is the way to go. It’s what you’d expect from a premium bike, packed into a commuter. For someone like me who enjoys gadgets, Raider feels refreshing in this segment.
Hero Splendor: The Time-Tested Legend
There’s really no introduction needed for the Hero Splendor. With its 97.2cc engine (yes, it’s technically below 125cc, but it still competes in this space), Splendor offers simplicity and reliability at its finest. It’s not for thrill-seekers—it’s for people who just want to get to work, day in and day out, without any surprises. Splendor’s mileage is legendary, and its maintenance costs are rock bottom. I’ve seen some of the older models still running strong today, and that says a lot about its staying power.
Hero Glamour: The Style Meets Substance
Glamour, with its 124.7cc engine, is Hero’s attempt at making a commuter bike that looks a bit more stylish. It comes with i3S technology, which helps with fuel efficiency by automatically switching off the engine at stops. I like the fact that Glamour tries to be more than just a commuter bike—it wants to look good too. It’s for the rider who wants practicality but doesn’t want to look like they’re riding a purely utilitarian machine.
Final Thoughts: What’s My Pick?
So we have the best bike for you. Well, that folding beach chair really depends on what you require. For one thing, if you want to make certain you won’t be up for any shocks, Honda Shine is the one bike to go with. But if you are like me and looking for something which makes your daily ride look and feel a little less mundane, Bajaj Pulsar 125 or TVS Raider could be the ones for you. To summarize, if you’re one who prefers minimalistic design and durability Hero Splendor will last you years. And if you are keen on buying a bike that has good looks and utility Hero Glamour will serve the purpose.
But, as always, I would like to get your opinion… Would you prefer a ‘real world’ bike, one that will take you to work and back, or are you seeking a commuter bike with a little flair? Let me know in the comments!