Bajaj CT 125X: Real World Mileage And Performance Explained

Is the basicness in features justified by the on-road performance?

Bajaj has launched the CT 125X at Rs 74,554 (ex-showroom Delhi), making it the most affordable 125cc bike in the country and the workhorse of its segment. It looks simple and retro and comes with basic features. But, is the performance and rideability enough to justify the lack of razzle-dazzle on this bike? We explore.

While it is the slowest in terms of outright acceleration, which is also down to its kerb weight of 131.5kg, the CT 125X does excite us with its in-gear acceleration, courtesy the short third and fourth gears. This really helps it pick up pace at any point, which is also seen in our roll-on acceleration tests. This makes it vividly tractable, so much so that it can even ride at 25kmph in the fourth and fifth gears and pick up speed without much hassle.

Braking hardware on the CT 125X impressed us. Equipped with a front disc brake and combi-braking system, the CT managed to cover the shortest stopping distance amongst its rivals. And, Bajaj’s mechanical CBS is tuned perfectly, ensuring that the rear wheel does not lock up and that there is not much drama even under hard braking.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the CT 125X is way behind the current 125cc champion, the TVS Raider. Agreed that a daily commuter should be able to offer good fuel efficiency, but the 60kmpl mark is not bad at all, and that too with such excellent tractability. So, we can be a little accommodating.

Do the performance and price of the CT 125X justify the lack of features? Yes. The CT 125X is a dependable workhorse with impressive on-road performance and is more affordable than many 125cc scooters and even the Hero Splendor Plus Xtec.