Both the bikes have striking looks, a decent set of features, and comparable performance; all of which can make the choice between the two confusing. That's exactly what we will help you with in this detailed comparison.

Price & Variants

• The Hero Xtreme 125R is clearly the more affordable bike in this comparison.

• While the Xtreme is available in 4 variants at different prices, the N125 keeps things simple with just 1 variant.

Dimensions & Design

• With a slightly higher ground clearance, the N125 should be able to better handle speedbumps and potholes.

• Both the bikes have similar and accessible seat height, which shouldn't be a problem for shorter riders.Due to its lighter kerb weight, the Bajaj Pulsar N125 should be easier to handle in tight parking scenarios.

• The Hero Xtreme 125R looks more aggressive with the sharp twin-pod LED headlight design and the tank extensions.

• The Bajaj Pulsar N125 has bold and striking looks with the sharp design lines. The headlight is an immediate attention-grabber and the tank design makes the bike look quite slim.

• In terms of colour options, the Hero Xtreme 125R gets a lot of colour options with matching graphics that highlight the aggressive design language quite well.

• The colour schemes on offer complement the sharp and bold design of the Bajaj Pulsar N125 very well. The Ebony Black - Cocktail Wine Red colour scheme's red paint scheme along with the black and white graphics on the fuel tank and tail section look vibrant.

• The Ebony Black - Purple Fury colour scheme is the most understated one on offer. The subtle shade of purple ensures the bike doesn't look loud.

• The Pewter Grey - Citrus Rush is the most vibrant colour scheme on offer. The citrus green colour screams for attention and will be liked by those who want their bike to turn heads wherever it goes.

Underpinnings

• Both the Hero Xtreme 125R and the Bajaj Pulsar N125 have a conventional telescopic fork and monoshock suspension setup, which is more than apt for a bike to have good sporty riding dynamics.

• The Bajaj Pulsar N125 is only available with a rear drum brake while the Hero Xtreme 125R has the option of a rear disc brake with dual-channel ABS. This gives the Xtreme 125R superior stopping power and makes it safer in emergency situations.

• Both bikes get 17-inch wheels, which suits their sporty commuter character. But the Hero Xtreme 125R gets a slightly wider tyre, which should provide better grip in theory.

Features

• The Bajaj Pulsar gets an LCD instrument console that shows speedometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge and clock readouts. It misses out on a tachometer and a gear position indicator. It has Bluetooth connectivity for call and SMS alerts.

• The Hero Xtreme 125R gets a colour LCD instrument console that has a speedometer, odometer, tachometer, tripmeter, gear position indicator, fuel gauge and clock readouts. It also gets Bluetooth connectivity for call and SMS alerts and turn-by-turn navigation.

• The Xtreme 125R also gets three riding modes and cruise control, making it the clear winner in this segment. The cruise control is especially beneficial if your everyday commutes include long stints on the highway where you'd want to ride at a constant speed without the need for constant gear changes and throttle modulation.

Performance

• Both bikes have good low-end and mid-range grunt, making them easily rideable at low speeds in a higher gear and quite fun when ridden in a spirited manner.

• But the Bajaj Pulsar N125 develops more power and torque at the same rpm as the Hero Xtreme 125R and thus, it should offer sportier performance of the two on paper. It's also lighter than the 125R.

• In our real-world tests, we found the Pulsar N125's engine to be more refined than that of the Xtreme 125R. Power delivery was smoother and overall.

• The gearbox on the Hero Xtreme 125R feels a bit more rough as compared to the N125, which has smooth gearshifts.

Verdict

The Bajaj Pulsar N125 is the bike for you if you want your first bike to be nimble, have a decent features list and have an engine that's very refined and smooth to operate.

The Hero Xtreme 125R is suitable for you if you are looking for an aggressive looking bike with sporty handling dynamics, is loaded with practical features and has an engine that can handle city as well as highway speeds with ease.

Other Rivals:

• The TVS Raider 125 currently dominates the sporty 125cc commuter category, while the Hero Xtreme 125R enters the segment as a fresh new challenger.
• While the Honda CB125 Hornet sits at the premium end of the segment, the Hero Xtreme 125R delivers similar hardware and features at a noticeably more accessible price.
• The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 appeals to riders who like the aggressive design of the NS200 in a smaller 125cc package, while the Hero Xtreme 125R feels like a more refined streetfighter with edgier styling.
• The Honda SP 125 is aimed at buyers seeking a stylish yet dependable daily commuter, whereas the Hero Xtreme 125R targets enthusiasts with its streetfighter styling and sportier intent.
• Although both the Hero Glamour X 125 and the Xtreme 125R offer a strong list of features, the Glamour X125 focuses on practical commuting while the Hero Xtreme 125R delivers a more dynamic ride with agile handling.
• For riders prioritising the smoothness and reliability associated with Honda's engines, the Honda Shine 125 fits the bill, while the Hero Xtreme 125R caters to those looking for a sportier riding experience.
• The Bajaj Pulsar 125 continues to attract buyers with its classic Pulsar design language, whereas the Hero Xtreme 125R presents itself as a newer and more powerful alternative.
• The Hero Super Splendor 125 is designed for riders who want a dependable everyday commuter, while the Hero Xtreme 125R is positioned as a sporty commuter aimed at younger riders.