TVS Apache RTR 125 LC leads on engine in 125cc sporty bike comparison

Sporty 125cc motorcycles are growing in popularity in India's two-wheeler market. TVS, Hero, Bajaj and Honda are competing hard in the segment. TVS has unveiled the new Apache RTR 125 LC at EICMA 2026, posing a fresh challenge to the Hero Xtreme 125R, Bajaj Pulsar 125 and Honda CB125 Hornet. Here is how the four bikes differ in features, engine and colours.

On colours, the TVS Apache RTR 125 LC was shown at EICMA 2026 in a lime green and grey dual-tone shade. The company has not given details of other colours. The Hero Xtreme 125R Stealth Edition comes in midnight black with pearl red accents. The Honda CB125 Hornet is offered in three dual-tone and one single-tone colour options. The Bajaj Pulsar 125 comes in five dual-tone colours.

On features, the TVS Apache RTR 125 LC gets a 5-inch TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, map mirroring, turn-by-turn navigation, dual-channel ABS and an emergency brake light. The Hero Xtreme 125R has a 4.2-inch TFT display, navigation, call and message alerts, music control, TPMS and cruise control. It also gets three riding modes named Rain, Road and Sport.

The Bajaj Pulsar 125 gets a TFT display, Google Maps mirroring, connected technology, call and message alerts and three riding modes. The Honda CB125 Hornet gets a 4.2-inch TFT display, a USB Type-C charging port, single-channel ABS and golden USD front suspension.

On the engine, the TVS Apache RTR 125 LC is ahead. It has a 125cc liquid-cooled engine that produces 14.7 bhp of power and 12 Nm of torque. It comes with a 6-speed gearbox and a slipper-assist clutch.

The Hero Xtreme 125R has a 125cc engine producing 11.4 bhp and 10.5 Nm of torque. The Bajaj Pulsar 125 has a 124.58cc engine that makes 11.8 bhp and 11 Nm. The Honda CB125 Hornet's 123.94cc engine produces 11 bhp and 11.2 Nm. All three come with a 5-speed gearbox. On power, therefore, the TVS Apache RTR 125 LC appears ahead.