Quick Analysis
Bajaj CT125x
9.5 pts
Unweighted: 11 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TVS Apache RTR 165 RP
21.0 pts
Unweighted: 12 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air‑cooled | Oil-cooled |
| Displacement | 124.45 cc | 164.9 cc |
| Engine Type | 4 stroke, Air cooled Single cylinder, SOHC, DTSi | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 4-valve, SOHC |
| Power | 10.9 PS @ 8000 rpm | 19.2 PS @ 10,000 rpm |
| Torque | 11 Nm @ 5500 rpm | 14.2 Nm @ 8,750 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 L | 12 litres |
| Mileage | 59.6 Kmpl | 45 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 130 | 148 |
| Seat Height | 810 | 800 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | — | Single-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 130 mm Disc/Drum | 270 mm Disc |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic (125 mm travel) | Showa Race-Tuned Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum | 240 mm Disc |
| Rear Suspension | SNS with Nitrox (100 mm travel) | Showa Race-Tuned Monoshock |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 80/100–17 Tubeless | 90/90 – 17 (Tubeless) |
| Rear Tyre | 100/90–17 Tubeless | 130/70 – 17 (Tubeless, Radial) |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Halogen | LED with DRL |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12V, 8Ah MF |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ebony-green.avif | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ebony-red-1.avif | — |
| Cluster | — | Fully digital |
| Color Options | Ebony Black with Red Decals | #111111, #A00000 Ebony Black with Blue Decals | #111111, #2456A6 Ebony Black with Green Decals | #111111, #2F6B3D | Racing White | #F2F2EE, #C40000 |
| 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. | The aggressive tuning also means vibrations become more noticeable at higher RPMs and highway cruising speeds. The suspension setup is firmer than regular commuter motorcycles, so rough roads and potholes can feel harsher during everyday riding. Long-distance comfort is not one of the strongest areas because the riding posture and sporty seat setup can feel tiring after extended hours. Since it was launched as a limited-production model, availability of specific body parts and graphics may be more difficult compared to standard Apache variants. Fuel efficiency is lower than the regular RTR 160 because of the performance-oriented tuning and shorter gearing. The motorcycle focuses more on sporty riding than relaxed commuting, so riders looking mainly for comfort and refinement may find it slightly too aggressive for daily use. Some riders expected even more power considering the “Race Performance” branding, especially when compared to larger 200cc motorcycles. |
| 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. | Some motorcycles are designed mainly for broad mass-market appeal, while others are built to showcase what a platform can do when performance becomes the priority. The TVS Apache RTR 165 RP belongs to the second category. Developed under the company’s “Race Performance” program, the motorcycle takes the familiar Apache RTR formula and pushes it toward a more aggressive and track-inspired direction. Although it shares its foundation with the RTR 160 4V, several mechanical and cosmetic changes give the 165 RP a noticeably sharper personality on the road. The motorcycle is powered by a 164.9cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. TVS revised the engine tuning to increase output to around 19.2 bhp, which made it one of the most powerful motorcycles in its segment during its launch period. The engine feels noticeably more responsive than the standard RTR 160 4V, especially in the mid and top-end range where acceleration becomes quicker and more energetic. Throttle response feels immediate, and the shorter gearing further adds to the bike’s aggressive nature during city riding and overtakes. The oil-cooling system helps maintain performance consistency during longer rides and high-RPM usage. The RTR 165 RP also includes three riding modes — Sport, Urban, and Rain. These modes change throttle sensitivity and ABS calibration depending on riding conditions. Sport mode allows the motorcycle to deliver its sharpest response and full performance output, while Urban and Rain modes make acceleration smoother for everyday traffic or slippery roads. This feature gives the bike more adaptability while still maintaining its performance-focused identity. One of the biggest differences between the 165 RP and regular Apache models lies in the chassis setup. The motorcycle feels more focused and sharper while cornering, partly because of the revised suspension tuning. The front uses telescopic forks, while the rear receives a preload-adjustable monoshock setup tuned for more aggressive riding. The suspension feels firmer than standard commuter motorcycles, helping the bike remain stable during quick direction changes and fast cornering. However, rough roads and potholes are felt more clearly because comfort is not the primary focus of the setup. Braking hardware includes petal disc brakes at both ends supported by dual-channel ABS. The braking feel remains progressive and confidence-inspiring, especially during spirited riding. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, while red wheel accents and race-inspired graphics add to its distinctive appearance. TVS also added several visual upgrades including sporty decals, contrasting body graphics, and golden fork detailing that separate the bike from the standard Apache lineup. Technology and features are another important part of the package. The fully digital instrument console supports TVS SmartXonnect connectivity with Bluetooth pairing, navigation assist, call alerts, ride analytics, and race-oriented information. Adjustable clutch and brake levers, a slipper clutch, and LED lighting further add to the premium and performance-focused nature of the motorcycle. The riding posture remains sporty but manageable enough for regular road use. The split-seat layout, rear-set footpegs, and slightly forward-leaning ergonomics help the bike feel more engaging without becoming too extreme for daily riding. Fuel efficiency usually stays around 35–45 km/l depending on riding style and traffic conditions. Unlike regular Apache models, the RTR 165 RP was launched as a limited-production motorcycle in India and was never intended to become a permanent mass-market offering. Overall, the motorcycle combines sharper engine tuning, race-inspired upgrades, sporty handling, and modern electronic features into a street bike designed primarily around rider engagement and performance-oriented road riding. |
| 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 TVS Apache RTR 165 RP feels more like a factory-tuned special edition than just a slightly upgraded Apache. The engine responds sharply, the gearing feels shorter and more aggressive, and the motorcycle reacts quickly to throttle inputs in a way that immediately feels sportier than the standard RTR 160 4V. What stands out most is how light and eager the bike feels while cornering — the chassis remains agile, and the suspension setup gives the motorcycle a much more focused riding character. TVS also added several race-inspired touches like adjustable suspension, slipper clutch, riding modes, and cosmetic upgrades that make the motorcycle feel closer to a track-oriented street bike rather than a regular commuter. At the same time, the firmer setup and aggressive tuning also mean vibrations and ride stiffness are more noticeable during longer rides or rough roads. The RTR 165 RP mainly appeals to riders who enjoy sharp handling and a more energetic riding feel rather than relaxed commuting comfort., 4.6, 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: Is the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP discontinued in India? A: Yes, the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP was launched as a limited-production “Race Performance” model and is no longer part of the regular TVS lineup in India. TVS produced the motorcycle in limited numbers, which is why it was available only for a short period. Q: Can the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP still be purchased in India? A: New units are generally unavailable through official dealerships now, but used models may still be found in the pre-owned motorcycle market. Q: What is the engine capacity of the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 164.9cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine. Q: What is the power output of the RTR 165 RP? A: The bike produces around 19.2 bhp and approximately 14.2 Nm of torque. Q: What makes the RTR 165 RP different from the RTR 160 4V? A: The RTR 165 RP gets a more powerful engine tune, slipper clutch, adjustable suspension, red alloy wheels, race-inspired styling, and performance-focused upgrades. Q: What mileage does the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP give? A: Real-world mileage generally stays around 35–45 km/l depending on riding style and traffic conditions. Q: What is the top speed of the RTR 165 RP? A: The motorcycle has an approximate top speed of around 125 km/h. Q: Does the Apache RTR 165 RP have riding modes? A: Yes, the bike offers Sport, Urban, and Rain riding modes. Q: Does the RTR 165 RP get Bluetooth connectivity? A: Yes, it supports TVS SmartXonnect with navigation, call alerts, and ride analytics. Q: What type of brakes does the RTR 165 RP use? A: The motorcycle uses petal disc brakes at both ends along with dual-channel ABS. Q: What suspension setup does the RTR 165 RP use? A: It gets telescopic front forks and preload-adjustable rear monoshock suspension. Q: Does the RTR 165 RP have a slipper clutch? A: Yes, the motorcycle comes with a slipper clutch for smoother downshifts during aggressive riding. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the RTR 165 RP? A: The motorcycle comes with a fuel tank capacity of around 12 litres. Q: What is the kerb weight of the RTR 165 RP? A: The kerb weight of the bike is approximately 145 kg. Q: Was the RTR 165 RP a limited edition motorcycle? A: Yes, TVS launched the RTR 165 RP as a limited-production Race Performance model. Q: Is the RTR 165 RP suitable for highway riding? A: Yes, the strong acceleration and sporty chassis make it suitable for highway use and spirited riding. Q: What type of tyres does the RTR 165 RP use? A: The motorcycle uses tubeless tyres mounted on alloy wheels. |
| Fuel System | Carburetor | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Drum | 73702 Disc | 76902 | STD | 145000 |
| 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 biggest highlight of the RTR 165 RP is its engine tuning. The motorcycle feels noticeably more aggressive and quicker than the standard RTR 160 4V, especially in the mid and top-end range where acceleration feels sharp and immediate. The bike feels very light and responsive while cornering. Direction changes happen quickly, and the chassis gives the rider a confident and sporty feel during fast riding. TVS added several race-inspired upgrades like adjustable suspension, red alloy wheels, racing graphics, and a slipper clutch, which make the motorcycle feel more performance-focused than a regular commuter bike. The exhaust note sounds deeper and sportier compared to the standard Apache models, adding more character to the riding experience. Ride modes, Bluetooth connectivity, adjustable levers, and the fully digital display give the bike a feature-rich setup for its segment. The shorter gearing and aggressive throttle response make the motorcycle especially enjoyable in city riding and quick overtakes. Braking performance feels strong and predictable, with dual-channel ABS improving confidence during hard braking situations. |
| Starter | Kick and Self Start | Electric |
| Transmission | 5‑speed | 5-speed manual |
