Powered by a 124.45cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder DTS-i engine, the Pulsar NS125 produces 11.83 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 11 Nm at 7,000 rpm, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. It achieves a top speed of 103 kmph and a mileage of 46.9-64.75 km/l, ideal for city commuting. The engine offers peppy low-end torque but lacks the refinement of the Hero Xtreme 125R in the top-end. Its BS6 compliance ensures cleaner emissions.

The 2025 Pulsar NS125 features full LED lighting, a side-stand cut-off sensor, and a front disc brake (240 mm) with CBS. The top variant offers single-channel ABS, enhancing safety. However, it lacks traction control, available on the Hero Xtreme 125R. The sturdy frame and tubeless tires ensure reliability.

Hero Xtreme 125R - The Hero Xtreme 125R (124.7cc, 11.4 bhp, 10.5 Nm) is cheaper (₹96,425 vs ₹1,00,000), offers marginally better mileage (66 km/l vs. 64.75 km/l), a premium build with full LED lighting and a fully digital console with Bluetooth and navigation. Its Sprintex suspension enhances comfort. The Xtreme 125R is also lighter at 136 kg. The Pulsar NS125 offers better agility and acceleration, and its 103 km/h top speed edges out the Xtreme’s 100 kmph.

TVS Raider 125 - The TVS Raider 125 is more affordable (₹87,0000 vs 1,00,000), with a 124.8cc engine (11.69 bhp, 11.2 Nm) and two riding modes (Eco, Power). Its SmartXonnect console with Bluetooth, voice assist, and navigation outshines the NS125’s basic display. The Pulsar NS125 offers a slightly higher top speed (103 km/h vs. 99 km/h) and optional single-channel ABS, a safety edge over the Raider’s base variants. 

How Pulsar NS125 is Better: Bajaj Pulsar 125 - The Pulsar 125 (₹92,320) is cheaper, but gets a simpler, commuter-focused design. Its softer suspension offers better comfort for long rides, and the build quality feels slightly more robust. The Pulsar NS125 offers a sportier design, similar power (12 bhp vs. 11.8 bhp), and a marginally higher top speed of 103 km/h vs 99 km/h. Its optional ABS and LED DRLs enhance safety and style over the Pulsar 125’s basic setup.

Bajaj Pulsar N125 - The Pulsar N125 is more affordable (₹99,213 vs 1,00,000), with a modern single-piece handlebar, similar mileage, and a fresher design. Its lighter 125 kg frame and refined console enhance its appeal. The Pulsar NS125 has a sportier split-seat design and a slightly higher top speed (103 kmph vs. 100 kmph). Its established NS platform appeals to riders familiar with the Pulsar legacy, and the optional ABS adds safety.

The 2025 Bajaj Pulsar NS125, starting at ₹1,00,000 is a strong contender in the 125cc segment, offering sporty styling, peppy performance (11.83 bhp), and agile handling for urban riders. Its optional ABS, and LED DRLs make it a value-for-money choice, backed by Bajaj’s extensive service network. However, its plasticky build, heavy frame, and dated platform trail rivals like the Hero Xtreme 125R, TVS Raider 125, and its own sibling - the N125, which offer superior mileage, refinement, and modern features. For budget-conscious riders seeking a sporty commuter, the NS125 delivers, but those prioritizing tech or comfort may prefer alternatives.