TVS Raider: Features Explained

TVS’s new 125cc commuter is loaded with features that will make its competitors sweat

The competition in the lucrative 125cc commuter segment has been getting fiercer, and TVS has been missing out on all the action. Now, with the launch of the TVS Raider, the bike maker aims to make up for  lost time by introducing a bike that packs features on par with motorcycles a class above. Here’s a lowdown on the features that the 125cc bike packs:

Feature-loaded Instrument Console
The TVS Raider comes equipped with a negative backlit instrument cluster (segment first). In spite of its comparatively small size, the console packs features like a gear shift indicator, side-stand indicator, a helmet reminder, range, fuel economy, selected riding mode, internal starter generator indicator, and top and average speed recorder.

But the Hero Glamour X-Tec packs Bluetooth connectivity and the turn-by-turn navigation, which the TVS Raider doesn’t...well, for now. The bikemaker is already working on a top-end model that flaunts a TFT display, and comes equipped with the TVS SmartXconnect bluetooth connectivity. This variant will also get voice assist, ability to manage call, navigation, two display modes and low fuel assistance. The new variant, however, will hit the showroom later this year.

An All-new Engine
TVS developed an all-new 124.8cc 3-valve engine that develops 11.38PS and 11.2Nm, making it the torquiest engine in the segment. To maintain the optimum temperature, TVS has added some unique touches to the engine. For starters, the engine utilises the company’s patented oil-cooled combustion chamber and internal oil cooler. Furthermore, there’s a jet oil spray under the crown of the piston, similar to what Honda offers on its BS6 products.

TVS has also worked on the refinement levels by using spring-loaded rocker arms, and silent cam chain. The bike also comes equipped with an internal starter generator, that negates the need of a starter coil, and ensures a silent start.

Riding Modes FTW!
After the Apache RR 310, and more recently the Apache RTR 200 4V, TVS has equipped the Raider with the two riding modes-- a segment-first feature. The two riding modes, Power and Eco, can be switched on-the-fly. In the Eco mode, the throttle response is a bit dull, and the redline is restricted to 8,000rpm for the first four gears, instead of the 9,000rpm limit in the Power mode.  TVS claims this improves fuel efficiency by three percent and can deliver an impressive 67kmpl.

When in Eco mode, TVS’ start-stop system is also activated, which automatically kills the ignition when the bike is idling for more than a few seconds. To bring it back to life, all you need to do is pull on the clutch and roll the throttle. While the system is useful while commuting, especially when there is no kill switch, it does not work in Power mode, which is a bit of a letdown.