TVS is gearing up for the launch of its hot 125 cc commuter bike, the updated Raider on the 19th of October i.e. tomorrow. With this launch, TVS is aiming to target the youth towards the already sporty commuter by hosting it on its cutting-edge proprietary platform -the TVS Motoverse. The TVS Motoverse is the manufacturer’s attempt at creating a digital platform on the Metaverse wherein all its future launches would take place.
What TVS is calling the Raider’s Wicked new update will be the world’s first-ever 2-wheeler launch in the metaverse. Over the Raider’s official Instagram handle, there’s been an onslaught of teaser and promotional videos over the last 3 days hinting at what new features can we expect. As the company is targeting Gen Z with the virtual reality launch and everything, the biggest feature upgrade will be a new instrument console supporting Bluetooth connectivity via the company’s SmartXonnect Bluetooth module & voice assist function. Thanks to this new addition, the connected variant of the Raider will benefit from extra features such as turn-by-turn navigation, incoming call alerts and message notifications and also music control.
The new instrument cluster will sport a 5-inch TFT screen in place of the LCD one offered on the regular variants of the Raider which will include existing features like service reminder, low battery alert and some more information than before like range, fuel economy & top speed recorder among others. No major mechanical updates are expected to be made to the motor, chassis and underpinnings of the bike although, a price bump over the disc brake equipped variant which currently retails at Rs. 93,489 is anticipated, just like we’ve seen in the Ntorq’s SmartXonnect variant which charges the most premium out of its lot.
Presently, the commuter bike is powered by a 124.8 cc single cylinder, air-cooled, 3-valve engine churning out a total of 11.4hp at 7,500 rpm and 11.2Nm of peak torque at 6,000 rpm and comes mated to a 5-speed gearbox along with segment-first ride modes -Eco and Power. With 17-inch alloys at either end, it will retain the front telescopic fork and rear mono-shock suspension. Braking duties are handled by a petal disc on the front and a rear drum brake setup. The update will also retain the sporty style of the existing model with few or no changes in the paint options as well. The Raider 125 goes up against the likes of the Honda Shine SP 125, the Hero Glamour Xtec and the Pulsar NS125.