Best Budget Commuter Bikes 2025: When it comes to affordable daily commuters in India, the budget bike segment remains the most competitive and crowded market. Three motorcycles stand out as the leaders: the Hero Splendor Plus XTEC, TVS Raider 125, and Bajaj Platina 110. Each bike targets slightly different buyers, but all deliver exceptional fuel efficiency, reliability, and value for money. This comprehensive comparison breaks down every detail you need to make the right choice for your commuting needs.
The choice between these three ultimately depends on your priorities: if you want maximum features and modern technology at an affordable price, the Hero Splendor Plus XTEC is your answer. If you prefer sporty performance with highway comfort, the TVS Raider 125 takes the trophy. For those seeking the lowest running costs and maximum mileage, the Bajaj Platina 110 cannot be beaten.
Best Budget Commuter Bikes 2025: :Pricing & Value Analysis
Current Market Pricing (November 2025)
| Model | Ex-Showroom (Base) | On-Road Price (Approx.)* | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Splendor Plus XTEC | ₹77,428 | ₹88,000-92,000 | Feature-Rich |
| TVS Raider 125 | ₹80,500 | ₹95,000-1,00,000 | Performance-Focused |
| Bajaj Platina 110 | ₹69,284 | ₹82,000-86,000 | Most Affordable |
On-road prices vary by city based on RTO charges, insurance, and registration fees. Prices shown are approximate ranges across major cities.
The Bajaj Platina 110 is the most budget-friendly option, being ₹8,144 cheaper than the Hero Splendor XTEC ex-showroom. The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC offers premium technology at a mid-range price, making it an exceptional value proposition. The TVS Raider 125 is the most expensive of the trio, commanding a premium for its sporty character and highway performance.
Engine Performance & Specifications
Power & Displacement Breakdown
The three bikes have distinctly different engine characteristics that directly impact their riding experience and real-world performance.
Hero Splendor Plus XTEC features a 97.2cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke engine producing 7.9 bhp @ 8000 rpm and 8.05 Nm torque @ 6000 rpm. The engine utilizes xSENS FI (Fuel Injection) technology, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimal efficiency. This lightweight engine is engineered purely for maximum mileage with respectable city performance.
TVS Raider 125 is powered by a more muscular 124.8cc, air & oil-cooled engine that generates 11.38 PS @ 7500 rpm and impressive 11.2 Nm torque @ 6000 rpm (11.75 Nm in iGO variants). The larger displacement and air & oil cooling system allow it to maintain cooler operating temperatures during sustained riding, particularly beneficial for highway use. This extra power translates to quicker acceleration and better highway cruising capability.
Bajaj Platina 110 sits in the middle with a 115.45cc, air-cooled engine producing 8.48-8.6 PS @ 7000 rpm and 9.81 Nm @ 5000 rpm. The Platina’s torque is delivered lower in the RPM range, providing snappier city acceleration and better low-end response for stop-and-go traffic.
Top Speed Comparison
| Bike | Top Speed | 0-60 kmph Time | Highway Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Splendor XTEC | 87 kmph | Not specified | Moderate |
| TVS Raider 125 | 99 kmph | 5.8-5.9 seconds | Excellent |
| Bajaj Platina 110 | 90 kmph | Not specified | Good |
The TVS Raider’s 99 kmph top speed positions it as genuinely highway-capable, with acceleration figures proving its performance credentials. The Hero Splendor XTEC’s 87 kmph maximum is adequate for city riding but limits highway comfort. The Bajaj Platina 110 at 90 kmph offers a middle ground.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency – The Critical Difference
Claimed vs. Real-World Mileage
This is where the three bikes display their most dramatic differences, and accurate mileage data is crucial for calculating true ownership costs.
Hero Splendor Plus XTEC delivers the highest claimed ARAI mileage at 73 kmpl with a 9.8-liter fuel tank offering 700+ km range. Real-world testing shows users consistently achieve 60-65 kmpl in city conditions and up to 70 kmpl on highways depending on riding style and road conditions. The i3S (Idle Stop-Start) technology automatically shuts down the engine at traffic lights, contributing significantly to fuel efficiency gains.
TVS Raider 125 claims 71.94 kmpl ARAI rating with a 10-liter tank providing approximately 720 km range. Real-world figures hover between 56-60 kmpl in mixed riding conditions, with user-reported averages around 56 kmpl. While respectable, the Raider’s larger displacement and better performance come at a slight mileage penalty compared to the Splendor.
Bajaj Platina 110 is rated at 70 kmpl ARAI with an 11-liter tank (largest capacity) and a 2-liter reserve offering an impressive 770+ km range. Users report achieving 65-72 kmpl in typical city use and 70-75 kmpl on highways. The larger fuel tank provides superior range despite similar per-liter efficiency.
Real-World Running Costs
Based on ₹100 per liter petrol pricing:
Hero Splendor XTEC: ₹1.00-1.10 per km (60-65 kmpl actual)
TVS Raider 125: ₹1.15-1.30 per km (56-60 kmpl actual)
Bajaj Platina 110: ₹0.85-0.95 per km (65-72 kmpl actual)
For a 20,000 km annual commute, this translates to roughly ₹20,000-22,000 for the Splendor, ₹23,000-26,000 for the Raider, and ₹17,000-19,000 for the Platina. Over five years, the fuel savings from the Platina versus the Raider can exceed ₹15,000-20,000.
Design, Features & Technology Comparison
Digital Instruments & Connectivity
This is where the Hero Splendor Plus XTEC truly shines against its competitors. It’s the only 100cc commuter bike offering a full digital speedometer with Bluetooth connectivity, call and SMS alert capabilities, and a real-time mileage indicator to help riders optimize fuel efficiency. The LED headlamp provides modern styling and improved night visibility. Additionally, the USB charging port allows riders to charge mobile devices on long commutes.
The TVS Raider 125 responds with its own fully digital instrument cluster and the proprietary SmartXonnect app (on top variants) that provides real-time fuel efficiency data, gear position information, service reminders, and distance-to-empty calculations. This app integration makes the Raider feel contemporary and tech-forward for riders who value connectivity.
The Bajaj Platina 110 takes a minimalist approach with analogue-digital instruments (speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, and fuel gauge), sacrificing digital features for simplicity and reliability. The ABS variant features a semi-digital cluster. This traditional approach appeals to users who prefer mechanical simplicity over electronics.
Build Quality & Design Language
The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC features modern styling with sleek graphics, stylish chrome accents, and a contemporary aesthetic. The wide, well-padded seat ensures long-ride comfort, while the upright ergonomic riding position suits both short trips and extended commutes. The suspension tuning balances city responsiveness with highway stability.
The TVS Raider 125 boasts a slightly more aggressive, sport-oriented design with sharp lines and a youthful appeal. It comes with a wider, well-padded seat designed specifically for extended comfort during long rides. The 180mm ground clearance (highest of the three) navigates rough roads better, and the overall design language appeals to riders seeking a bike that looks sportier than traditional commuters.
The Bajaj Platina 110 presents a clean, traditional commuter design with body graphics that give it character without appearing flashy. The quilted, spacious seat prioritizes comfort, and the practical design focuses on functionality over aesthetics. The tallest seat height at 807mm may challenge shorter riders, while the 200mm ground clearance excels on uneven terrain.
Suspension, Handling & Ride Quality
Suspension Components
Hero Splendor Plus XTEC employs telescopic hydraulic forks at the front and 5-step adjustable hydraulic shocks at the rear. This setup is tuned for city roads, providing a pliant ride over minor imperfections while maintaining adequate highway stability.
TVS Raider 125 uses telescopic forks at the front and a gas-charged monoshock at the rear with adjustability, delivering a more sporty, responsive feel. The suspension absorbs bumps effectively while maintaining composure during spirited riding, making it more suitable for highway cruising at sustained speeds.
Bajaj Platina 110 features hydraulic telescopic forks with 135mm travel and a SOS (Stiffer Overall Suspension) rear setup with a nitrox canister and 110mm travel. This combination prioritizes comfort on rough roads, with the nitrox technology providing consistent damping performance over extended use.
Handling Characteristics
The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC, weighing just 112kg, is extremely nimble and easy to maneuver through tight city traffic. However, its lighter weight means it’s slightly more affected by crosswinds on highways.
The TVS Raider 125, at 123-125kg (variant-dependent), feels planted and confidence-inspiring during highway riding. Its heavier weight, combined with the monoshock suspension and oil cooling, provides superior highway stability and composure. The compact and agile design remains easy to handle in traffic despite the additional weight.
The Bajaj Platina 110 at 119kg strikes a balance between nimbleness and stability. Its design emphasizes predictable, stable handling characteristics neither overly nervous in traffic nor unsettled on highways. The higher ground clearance also aids stability on uneven surfaces.
Braking Systems & Safety
Brake Configuration
Hero Splendor Plus XTEC features drum brakes front and rear with Integrated Braking System (IBS). A disc brake variant is also available at a higher price point. Braking is reliable for city speeds but requires rider familiarity for progressive modulation during emergency braking situations.
TVS Raider 125 uses drum brakes on base variants and disc brakes on higher variants, with Synchronized Braking Technology. The top-end variants (SXC DD and TFT DD) feature dual disc brakes with single-channel ABS, making them the safest in terms of braking among all variants.
Bajaj Platina 110 is unique in its segment, offering a Combined Braking System (CBS) that proportionally distributes braking force between front and rear drums, improving control during hard braking situations. Select variants also feature single-channel ABS on the front wheel with a disc brake, making it one of the safest options among the three for emergency braking scenarios.
The absence of ABS on base Hero and TVS variants is worth noting in wet conditions or during panic braking, CBS or ABS-equipped Bajaj Platina provides measurably better stability for inexperienced riders.
Comfort & Practicality Assessment
Seat & Ergonomics
All three bikes prioritize rider comfort with well-designed seating, though each has distinct characteristics.
The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC’s seat is wide, well-cushioned, and maintains comfort during extended rides. The seat height of 785mm suits average Indian riders well. The upright riding position minimizes strain during stop-and-go city traffic.
The TVS Raider 125’s seat is slightly wider and more generously padded, specifically engineered for longer rides. The 780mm seat height is slightly lower than the Splendor, suiting shorter riders better. The upright position with slightly more forward body angle appeals to highway riders.
The Bajaj Platina 110’s quilted seat offers excellent cushioning but sits at 807mm height, the highest of the three bikes. Riders below 5’6″ may struggle with flat-footed standover, though the seat design itself is exceptionally comfortable.
Pillion Comfort
The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC provides good pillion comfort with adequate grab rail placement and a well-designed seat section for passengers.
The TVS Raider 125 earns marks for excellent pillion comfort, with its wider seat and better grab rail positioning making it the best choice for two-up commuting.
The Bajaj Platina 110 offers good pillion support with spacious seating and wider footpads for improved pillion comfort on longer rides.
Service, Maintenance & Reliability
Service Network & Availability
Hero’s service network is the largest and most accessible in India, with dealerships in virtually every town and city. The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC benefits from this extensive ecosystem, ensuring quick service access and availability of spare parts.
TVS has respectable coverage, particularly strong in southern India but less ubiquitous than Hero in rural areas. Service costs for the TVS Raider tend to run slightly higher than competitors.
Bajaj maintains excellent service coverage with strong presence in both urban and rural areas. Spare parts for the Platina are widely available and significantly cheaper than Hero or TVS components due to the Platina’s market dominance in the budget segment.
Service Costs & Maintenance Intervals
| Bike | First Service | Avg. Service Cost | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Splendor XTEC | 500 km/1 month | ₹2,500-3,000 | 5 Years/70,000 km |
| TVS Raider 125 | 750-1000 km/30-45 days | ₹2,500-3,500 | 5 Years/60,000 km |
| Bajaj Platina 110 | 750 km/30-45 days | ₹900-1,200 | 5 Years/75,000 km |
The Bajaj Platina 110 emerges as the clear winner for maintenance affordability with service costs approximately one-third to half those of the Hero Splendor. The Platina’s maintenance cost averages just ₹0.30-0.35 per km, making it exceptionally economical over the bike’s lifetime.
The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC offers reasonable service costs at around ₹2,500-3,000 per service. Regular maintenance costs approximately ₹0.50-0.60 per km over the bike’s lifespan.
The TVS Raider 125 incurs slightly higher service charges, making ownership costs higher than the Splendor and Platina.
Long-Term Reliability
All three bikes are proven, reliable machines with millions of units on the road. The Hero Splendor family is India’s best-selling commuter motorcycle with an exceptional track record spanning over 30 years. The Bajaj Platina 110 consistently receives excellent user ratings (4.5-5.0/5) based on long-term ownership feedback, indicating exceptional reliability with minimal issues reported after warranty expiry. The TVS Raider 125, while newer to the segment, comes from a trusted manufacturer with strong engineering credentials.
Comparative Analysis: Who Should Buy What?
Choose the Hero Splendor Plus XTEC if:
- You prioritize modern technology and connectivity without breaking the bank
- You want the largest service network for peace of mind
- You seek maximum mileage among feature-rich bikes (60-65 kmpl real-world)
- You value Bluetooth connectivity and digital instruments
- You’re an office-going commuter who wants contemporary styling
- Your budget is around ₹88,000-92,000 on-road
- You ride primarily in city conditions with occasional highway use
The Splendor XTEC represents the sweet spot between features and price. Its i3S technology provides tangible fuel-saving benefits, while the digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth makes it feel premium compared to segment competitors. The 73 kmpl ARAI efficiency ensures low running costs, and Hero’s after-sales support is unmatched. However, the lower top speed (87 kmph) limits highway suitability.
Choose the TVS Raider 125 if:
- You regularly take highway/long-distance commutes
- You value performance and sportiness over maximum economy
- You want superior acceleration and top-end capability (99 kmph)
- You appreciate connectivity through SmartXonnect app (top variants)
- You’re willing to spend ₹95,000-1,00,000+ for highway comfort
- Your riding style involves varied terrain and speeds
- You want the best pillion comfort among the three
The TVS Raider 125 is genuinely highway-capable, delivering composed riding at sustained speeds. The 11.38 PS power and 11.2 Nm torque make it feel brisk compared to peers. Its gas-charged monoshock provides highway stability, and the SmartXonnect app offers modern convenience. The trade-off is accepting lower real-world mileage (56-60 kmpl) than competitors, resulting in slightly higher monthly fuel costs. User satisfaction remains high due to its balanced character.
Choose the Bajaj Platina 110 if:
- Lowest running costs are your absolute priority
- You want maximum fuel tank capacity (11 liters)
- You seek best-in-class reliability and durability
- You appreciate CBS braking and ABS safety features (on select variants)
- You plan to keep the bike for 5+ years
- Your budget is under ₹86,000 on-road
- You value affordable spare parts and service (₹900-1,200 per service)
- You ride primarily on rough/uneven roads (200mm ground clearance)
The Bajaj Platina 110 is the ultimate value proposition for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing longevity and low operating costs. Its 5-year/75,000 km warranty, affordable maintenance (₹900-1,200 per service), and consistent real-world performance (65-72 kmpl) make it the ultimate budget buy. The trade-off is sacrificing digital instruments and connectivity—the Platina is refreshingly mechanical and simple. For pure commuting duties with zero fancy features, it’s unbeatable.
Real-World Running Cost Comparison Over 5 Years
Assuming 20,000 km annual usage (100,000 km total), ₹100/liter petrol:
| Cost Factor | Hero Splendor XTEC | TVS Raider 125 | Bajaj Platina 110 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price (On-Road) | ₹90,000 | ₹98,000 | ₹84,000 |
| Fuel Cost (100,000 km) | ₹16,000-18,000 | ₹20,000-23,000 | ₹14,000-16,000 |
| Maintenance Cost (5 years) | ₹50,000-60,000 | ₹60,000-75,000 | ₹30,000-35,000 |
| Total 5-Year Cost | ₹1,56,000-1,68,000 | ₹1,78,000-1,96,000 | ₹1,28,000-1,35,000 |
| Cost Per Month | ₹2,600-2,800 | ₹2,967-3,267 | ₹2,133-2,250 |
| Cost Per Km | ₹1.56-1.68 | ₹1.78-1.96 | ₹1.28-1.35 |
The Bajaj Platina 110 costs ₹28,000-40,000 less to own over five years compared to the Hero Splendor XTEC, and a massive ₹50,000-68,000 less than the TVS Raider 125. This enormous difference comes from lower maintenance costs (₹30,000-35,000 vs. ₹50,000-75,000+ for others) and better fuel efficiency.
Detailed Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Hero Splendor Plus XTEC | TVS Raider 125 | Bajaj Platina 110 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 97.2cc | 124.8cc | 115.45cc |
| Max Power | 7.9 bhp @ 8000 rpm | 11.38 PS @ 7500 rpm | 8.48-8.6 PS @ 7000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 8.05 Nm @ 6000 rpm | 11.2 Nm @ 6000 rpm | 9.81 Nm @ 5000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 4-Speed | 5-Speed | 5-Speed |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection (xSENS FI) | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection/Carb |
| Cooling | Air-Cooled | Air & Oil-Cooled | Air-Cooled |
| ARAI Mileage | 73 kmpl | 71.94 kmpl | 70 kmpl |
| Real-World Mileage | 60-65 kmpl | 56-60 kmpl | 65-72 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 9.8 liters | 10 liters | 11 liters |
| Top Speed | 87 kmph | 99 kmph | 90 kmph |
| Kerb Weight | 112 kg | 123-125 kg | 119 kg |
| Seat Height | 785 mm | 780 mm | 807 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm | 180 mm | 200 mm |
| Front Brake | 130mm Drum/Disc* | 240mm Disc/Drum | 130mm Drum/240mm Disc* |
| Rear Brake | 110mm Drum | 130mm Drum | 110mm Drum |
| ABS/CBS | IBS | SBT/ABS (top variants) | CBS/ABS* |
| Digital Cluster | Yes (Full Digital) | Yes | Semi-Digital |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes (SmartXonnect*) | No |
| USB Charging | Yes | Yes | No |
| i3S/Start-Stop | Yes | Yes (iGO variants) | No |
| Warranty | 5 Years/70,000 km | 5 Years/60,000 km | 5 Years/75,000 km |
| Ex-Showroom Price | ₹77,428 | ₹80,500 | ₹69,284 |
*Available on select variants
Verdict & Final Recommendation
The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC stands out as the all-rounder choice for modern, feature-conscious commuters wanting the best balance of technology, efficiency, and brand reliability. Its digital instruments, Bluetooth connectivity, and i3S technology justify the price for buyers who value these conveniences. Real-world mileage of 60-65 kmpl keeps running costs reasonable, while Hero’s unmatched service network provides peace of mind.
The TVS Raider 125 is the uncompromising choice for highway riders who prioritize performance, comfort, and long-distance capability over maximum mileage. The superior power delivery, highway stability, and SmartXonnect integration make it worth the extra investment for those regularly traveling beyond city limits.
The Bajaj Platina 110 is the no-nonsense champion for pure economics and reliability. If your sole priority is minimizing ownership costs while maintaining absolute dependability, no bike in India delivers better value. Its proven track record, 5-year/75,000 km warranty, affordable maintenance (₹900-1,200 per service), and consistent real-world performance (65-72 kmpl) make it the ultimate budget buy. Save ₹50,000-68,000 over 5 years compared to the Raider.
For most Indian buyers, the choice depends on three simple questions:
- Do you need modern features and connectivity? → Choose Hero Splendor Plus XTEC
- Do you regularly travel highways (60+ kmph sustained)? → Choose TVS Raider 125
- Is minimizing total cost of ownership paramount? → Choose Bajaj Platina 110
All three bikes will serve you exceptionally well as daily commuters, proving that India’s budget bike segment offers remarkable value, quality, and choice in 2025.
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