Quick Analysis
Bajaj CT125x
10.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Nightster
24.5 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
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Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air‑cooled | Liquid‑cooled |
| Displacement | 124.45 cc | 975 cc |
| Engine Type | 4 stroke, Air cooled Single cylinder, SOHC, DTSi | Revolution Max 975T V‑twin (DOHC, VVT) |
| Power | 10.9 PS @ 8000 rpm | 89 HP (66 kW) @ 7,500 rpm |
| Torque | 11 Nm @ 5500 rpm | 95 Nm @ 5,750 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 L | 11.7 L |
| Mileage | 59.6 Kmpl | 18.18 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 130 | 221 |
| Seat Height | 810 | 705 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | — | Dual‑channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 130 mm Disc/Drum | Disc |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic (125 mm travel) | 41mm SHOWA® Dual Bending Valve conventional forks. Aluminum fork triple clamps. |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum | Disc |
| Rear Suspension | SNS with Nitrox (100 mm travel) | Rear suspension is dual outboard, direct-acting (no linkage) emulsion technology shock absorbers with coil springs and a threaded collar for pre-load adjustment. |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 80/100–17 Tubeless | 100/90‑19 Dunlop® Harley‑Davidson Series bias |
| Rear Tyre | 100/90–17 Tubeless | 150/80-16 Dunlop® Harley‑Davidson Series bias |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Bias‑ply tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Halogen | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ebony-green.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Black-2.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ebony-red-1.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Snake-venom.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Whiskey-fire-2.avif |
| Cluster | — | Semi‑digital (Std), Digital (Special) |
| Color Options | Ebony Black with Red Decals | #111111, #A00000 Ebony Black with Blue Decals | #111111, #2456A6 Ebony Black with Green Decals | #111111, #2F6B3D | Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Dark Billiard Gray | #5F6366 Whiskey Fire | #A64B22 Snake Venom | #4F5A3D |
| Cons | Despite the larger engine, performance remains commuter-oriented and does not feel particularly exciting at higher speeds. The motorcycle uses a front disc and rear drum brake setup, but braking performance is still tuned more for regular commuting than aggressive riding. The design is functional rather than premium, and some buyers may find the styling too utilitarian compared to modern 125cc commuters. The instrument cluster is basic and lacks features such as Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, or advanced digital displays. Engine vibrations can become noticeable when the motorcycle is ridden near its top speed for extended periods. The suspension is comfort-focused, which means handling feels stable but not especially sharp during fast cornering. Highway cruising ability is better than smaller commuter bikes, but the motorcycle is still primarily designed for daily transportation rather than long-distance touring. Since the model has been discontinued in India, availability of certain body panels, graphics, or model-specific cosmetic parts may become more limited over time compared to current-production motorcycles. | Fuel Tank Capacity Is Relatively Small – The 11.7-litre fuel tank is smaller than what many riders expect from a cruiser, which can reduce the distance between fuel stops. Limited Wind Protection – With no fairing or windscreen as standard, riders are exposed to wind pressure at higher speeds. Passenger Comfort Is Basic – The motorcycle is primarily designed around the rider, and pillion accommodation is fairly limited in stock form. Suspension Can Feel Firm on Rough Roads – Broken surfaces and larger potholes are transmitted more directly to the rider than on some larger cruisers. Doesn't Have the Traditional Harley Sound and Feel – Riders expecting the slow-revving character of a classic air-cooled Harley may find the Revolution Max engine noticeably different. Storage Space Is Non-Existent – There are no integrated luggage solutions or practical storage options as standard. Highway Touring Isn't Its Main Focus – The motorcycle is capable of longer rides, but its compact dimensions and lack of touring equipment make it less suited to extended highway journeys than models such as the Heritage Classic. Engine Heat Can Be Felt in Slow Traffic – Like many high-performance liquid-cooled engines, heat becomes more noticeable during prolonged stop-and-go riding. Feature Set Depends on Variant – Some markets receive different levels of equipment, meaning certain technology features may not be available on every version. Premium Brand Means Premium Ownership Costs – Servicing, insurance, accessories, and replacement parts can cost more than comparable middleweight motorcycles from mainstream manufacturers. |
| Detailed Overview | The Bajaj CT 125X is a commuter motorcycle that has been developed with an emphasis on practicality, durability, and everyday usability. While it shares the basic purpose of most commuter bikes, providing economical transportation, it introduces several design elements that make it stand apart from conventional city-focused commuters. Features such as a metal bash plate, fork gaiters, crash guards, and semi-knobby tyres give the motorcycle a more rugged appearance and highlight its focus on handling rough road conditions alongside regular urban commuting. Powering the motorcycle is a 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine is tuned to deliver usable low and mid-range performance rather than aggressive acceleration. This tuning allows the motorcycle to respond smoothly in city traffic and makes it easier to ride at everyday speeds. Compared to smaller 100cc commuter motorcycles, the additional engine capacity provides improved pulling power, which can be useful when carrying a pillion rider, transporting luggage, or riding on inclines. The 5-speed transmission also helps maintain a more relaxed engine speed during longer rides and moderate highway usage. Fuel efficiency remains an important part of the motorcycle’s overall character. Real-world mileage generally falls in the range of approximately 55–65 km/l depending on riding habits, traffic conditions, and maintenance. Combined with its 11-litre fuel tank, the motorcycle offers a riding range that suits riders who cover substantial distances as part of their daily routine. The riding posture is designed around comfort and control. A wide handlebar, upright seating position, and neutral footpeg placement create a natural riding triangle that does not place excessive strain on the rider. The seat is long and reasonably spacious, allowing both rider and pillion to sit comfortably during daily commutes. These ergonomics make the motorcycle suitable for prolonged periods of use in urban environments and on mixed road surfaces. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. The setup is tuned primarily to absorb uneven surfaces and reduce the impact of potholes, speed breakers, and damaged roads. This suspension configuration works together with the motorcycle’s relatively high ground clearance, allowing it to travel over rough patches without frequent contact between the underside of the bike and the road surface. The semi-knobby tyre pattern further contributes to the motorcycle’s ability to maintain grip on mixed terrain, including gravel roads and less-developed routes. Visually, the CT 125X follows a straightforward and functional design philosophy. The bodywork remains simple, but the addition of protective elements and contrasting graphics creates a tougher appearance than a typical commuter motorcycle. Alloy wheels, tank pads, and practical utility-focused components contribute to the overall design theme without significantly increasing complexity. Braking performance varies depending on the variant, with front disc and drum brake options offered during its production run. The motorcycle uses Combined Braking System (CBS), which distributes braking force between the wheels to improve stability during braking. Tubeless tyres add another practical element by reducing inconvenience in the event of minor punctures. The feature list remains focused on essential functionality. The instrument cluster provides basic riding information in a simple and easy-to-read format, while electric start functionality improves convenience during daily use. Unlike premium motorcycles, the CT 125X does not rely heavily on advanced electronics or connected technologies, instead maintaining a straightforward mechanical setup aimed at routine transportation and ease of ownership. | The Nightster is one of the motorcycles that illustrates how much Harley-Davidson’s approach to motorcycle design has changed in recent years. Although it still carries familiar cruiser proportions, the motorcycle shares very little mechanically with the air-cooled Sportsters that many riders associate with the name. Its compact dimensions, liquid-cooled engine, and modern electronics package place it closer to contemporary middleweight motorcycles than to Harley-Davidson’s traditional heavyweight cruisers. The most significant component is the Revolution Max 975T engine. This 975cc liquid-cooled V-twin serves as more than just a power source, as it also forms a structural part of the motorcycle. Instead of being housed within a conventional frame, the engine acts as a stressed member, with the chassis attached directly to it. This design helps reduce weight while contributing to overall rigidity. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox and electronic throttle control, allowing the motorcycle’s rider-assistance systems to operate alongside the powertrain. Unlike Harley-Davidson’s older air-cooled V-twins, the Revolution Max engine delivers its performance across a broader rev range. The engine is comfortable operating at higher RPMs, and its liquid-cooling system helps maintain consistent operating temperatures under varying riding conditions. Fuel injection manages throttle response and fuel delivery, while electronic systems monitor and adjust performance depending on the selected ride mode. One of the less obvious engineering details is the motorcycle’s fuel storage arrangement. The component that resembles a traditional fuel tank is actually an airbox cover. Fuel is stored lower in the chassis beneath the seat area. By relocating the fuel mass closer to the centre of the motorcycle, Harley-Davidson alters weight distribution and contributes to the Nightster’s compact feel. The fuel capacity is 11.7 litres, which is relatively modest compared with many larger cruisers. The chassis itself follows a straightforward design. Conventional telescopic forks are used at the front, while twin rear shock absorbers handle suspension duties at the rear. This differs from Harley-Davidson’s Softail models, which conceal the rear suspension beneath the motorcycle. Suspension travel and geometry are designed around everyday road use, balancing comfort, stability, and manoeuvrability. The relatively compact wheelbase further separates the Nightster from Harley-Davidson’s larger cruiser models. Braking duties are handled by a single front disc brake and a rear disc brake. Modern electronic rider-assistance systems are integrated into the package, including ABS, traction control, drag-torque slip control, and selectable ride modes. Depending on the variant, riders may also have access to additional electronic features and connectivity functions through the instrument display. The riding position combines elements of both cruisers and standard motorcycles. The low seat height of approximately 705 mm places the rider close to the ground, while mid-mounted foot controls create a more neutral leg position than the forward controls commonly found on larger cruisers. The handlebar position keeps the upper body relatively upright, resulting in a riding posture that differs noticeably from both traditional Harley-Davidson cruisers and sporty naked motorcycles. A round instrument display sits ahead of the handlebar, with higher variants receiving a TFT screen capable of displaying navigation and smartphone connectivity functions. LED lighting is used throughout the motorcycle, reflecting the Nightster’s modern design approach. Taken as a whole, the Nightster combines a liquid-cooled Revolution Max engine, a chassis that uses the engine as a structural component, modern electronic rider aids, and compact cruiser-inspired ergonomics. Its specifications reflect Harley-Davidson’s move toward lighter, more technologically advanced motorcycles while retaining visual elements that connect it to the company’s broader lineup. |
| Expert Review | The Bajaj CT 125X feels like a motorcycle developed for riders who need something tougher than a typical city commuter without moving into a larger or more expensive segment. Its 124.4cc engine provides a noticeable improvement in pulling power over most 100cc commuters, making daily riding with a pillion or luggage feel less demanding. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort, and the higher ground clearance, bash plate, fork gaiters, and semi-knobby tyres give the bike a practical advantage on broken roads and rural routes. The riding posture remains upright and relaxed, which helps during long hours of commuting. Rather than focusing on modern technology or sporty performance, the CT 125X prioritizes durability, simplicity, and ease of ownership. Features remain basic and highway performance is limited by commuter-bike standards, but the motorcycle is clearly aimed at riders who value robustness and everyday usability above everything else., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The Nightster occupies an unusual position within Harley-Davidson's range because very little about it follows the formula traditionally associated with the brand. The Revolution Max 975T engine defines much of the experience. It builds revs more freely than Harley-Davidson's older air-cooled V-twins and encourages a riding style that involves using more of the rev range rather than relying solely on low-end torque. Around town, the motorcycle feels relatively compact, and its low seat height makes frequent stops straightforward. The riding position combines an upright upper body with forward-set controls, creating an ergonomics package that feels different from both a conventional roadster and a traditional cruiser. Suspension tuning is on the firmer side, which becomes more noticeable on broken urban roads than on smoother surfaces. At highway speeds, the lack of a windscreen leaves the rider exposed to airflow, while the 11.7-litre fuel tank places practical limits on long-distance range. The TFT display and electronic rider aids introduce a level of technology not commonly associated with earlier Sportster-derived models. Viewed as a whole, the Nightster feels less like a continuation of Harley-Davidson's previous entry-level cruisers and more like a motorcycle developed around a different engineering philosophy, with the liquid-cooled engine and compact chassis influencing nearly every aspect of the riding experience., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: Is the Bajaj CT 125X discontinued in India? A: Yes. Bajaj has discontinued the CT 125X from its current India lineup, although used models are still available in the pre-owned market. Q: What engine does the Bajaj CT 125X use? A: It is powered by a 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. Q: What mileage does the Bajaj CT 125X deliver? A: Real-world mileage generally ranges between 55–65 km/l depending on riding conditions and maintenance. Q: What is the top speed of the CT 125X? A: The motorcycle can reach an approximate top speed of around 95–100 km/h. Q: What makes the CT 125X different from the CT 110X? A: The CT 125X gets a larger 124.4cc engine, a 5-speed gearbox, and stronger performance while retaining the rugged commuter design. Q: Does the Bajaj CT 125X have a front disc brake? A: Yes. Higher variants were offered with a front disc brake, while some versions used a drum brake setup. Q: Does the CT 125X have ABS? A: No. The motorcycle does not offer ABS and instead uses CBS (Combined Braking System). Q: What suspension setup does the CT 125X use? A: It uses telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the CT 125X? A: The motorcycle comes with an 11-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight of the CT 125X? A: Depending on the variant, kerb weight is approximately 130 kg. Q: Does the CT 125X use tubeless tyres? A: Yes, it comes equipped with tubeless tyres mounted on alloy wheels. Q: Is the CT 125X suitable for rough roads? A: Yes. The higher ground clearance, semi-knobby tyres, bash plate, and comfort-oriented suspension help it handle rough surfaces more effectively than many standard commuters. Q: Does the CT 125X have electric start? A: Yes, electric start was available on the motorcycle. Q: Is the Bajaj CT 125X beginner-friendly? A: Yes. The upright ergonomics, predictable power delivery, and manageable weight make it easy for new riders to handle. | Q: Which engine powers the Nightster? A: It uses Harley-Davidson's 975cc Revolution Max 975T liquid-cooled V-twin engine. Q: Is the Nightster air-cooled? A: No. Unlike many traditional Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the Nightster uses a liquid-cooled engine. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Nightster? A: The fuel tank capacity is approximately 11.7 litres. Q: Does the Nightster have ride modes? A: Yes. Depending on the variant, the motorcycle includes selectable ride modes such as Road, Rain, Sport, and Custom. Q: Does the Nightster have cruise control? A: Cruise control is available on higher-spec variants such as the Nightster Special. Q: What is the seat height of the Nightster? A: The seat height is approximately 705 mm. Q: Is the Nightster suitable for beginners? A: While it is smaller and lighter than many Harley-Davidson cruisers, the performance and engine response make it more suitable for riders with some prior experience. Q: How is the Nightster different from the Sportster S? A: The Nightster uses the smaller Revolution Max 975T engine and adopts a more accessible, less aggressive setup, while the Sportster S focuses more heavily on performance and uses the larger 1250T engine. Q: Does the Nightster have traction control and cornering ABS? A: Yes. Modern versions include traction control, ABS, and multiple electronic rider-assistance systems. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Nightster? A: The motorcycle weighs around 221–225 kg, depending on the variant. Q: Does the Nightster support smartphone connectivity? A: The Nightster Special includes a TFT display with smartphone connectivity and navigation-related functions. Q: Is the Nightster comfortable for long-distance touring? A: It can cover longer distances, but its compact fuel tank, lack of wind protection, and limited luggage options mean it is not designed primarily as a touring motorcycle. Q: What body type does the Nightster belong to? A: It is most commonly categorized as a performance cruiser, though some publications also describe it as a cruiser-roadster crossover because of its chassis layout and engine characteristics. Q: Is the Nightster sold in India through Hero MotoCorp's Harley-Davidson network? A: Yes. Harley-Davidson motorcycles in India are sold and supported through the Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp partnership network. |
| Fuel System | Carburetor | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Drum | 73702 Disc | 76902 | STD | 1454000 Special | 1538000 |
| Pros | The 124.4cc engine offers noticeably stronger pulling power than typical 100–110cc commuter motorcycles, making overtakes, pillion riding, and carrying luggage easier in everyday use. The motorcycle is built with rough-road practicality in mind. Features such as the metal bash plate, fork gaiters, crash guards, and higher ground clearance help it cope better with broken roads and rural routes. Ride comfort is a strong point. The suspension setup absorbs potholes, speed breakers, and uneven surfaces reasonably well, making long daily commutes less tiring. Fuel efficiency remains impressive for a 125cc motorcycle, with real-world mileage often ranging between 55–65 km/l depending on riding conditions. The upright riding posture, wide handlebar, and spacious seat create a comfortable riding position for both city commuting and longer daily journeys. The motorcycle feels mechanically simple, which helps keep maintenance costs affordable and servicing straightforward even in smaller towns. The rugged design gives it a tougher visual identity than most conventional commuter motorcycles in the segment. Tubeless tyres and electric start improve convenience for everyday ownership. | The Engine Feels Modern Without Losing Character – The Revolution Max 975T engine behaves very differently from Harley-Davidson's traditional air-cooled V-twins. It revs more freely, responds quickly to throttle inputs, and feels comfortable both in city traffic and on open roads. Manageable Size Compared to Larger Harleys – The Nightster is one of the more approachable motorcycles in Harley-Davidson's lineup. Its dimensions and weight make it easier to handle than the company's heavyweight cruisers and touring models. Low Seat Height Inspires Confidence – The seat position allows most riders to place their feet comfortably on the ground, which can be reassuring in traffic and at stops. Easy to Ride in Urban Conditions – The combination of a compact chassis, lighter weight, and responsive engine makes the motorcycle feel more at home in cities than many traditional cruisers. Modern Electronics Package – Ride modes, traction control, ABS, and a range of rider-assistance systems bring contemporary technology to the riding experience. Strong Mid-Range Performance – The engine delivers useful acceleration where riders typically spend most of their time, making overtakes and everyday riding feel effortless. Minimalist Styling – The compact fuel tank, exposed engine, and blacked-out components give the motorcycle a clean and uncluttered appearance. More Agile Than Traditional Cruisers – The Nightster changes direction more willingly than larger Harley-Davidson models, especially on winding roads. |
| Starter | Kick and Self Start | Electric |
| Transmission | 5‑speed | 6‑speed manual |
