New TVS Raider 125 Flex Fuel Launched: Ethanol Mileage & Performance Explained in India

TVS Motor Company has officially introduced the TVS Raider 125 Flex Fuel in India — the country’s first 125cc motorcycle capable of running on petrol-ethanol blends (E20 to E85). As India moves toward cleaner and cost-effective mobility, this launch marks a major milestone in the two-wheeler segment.

For buyers in November 2025, this new variant promises lower emissions, flexible fuel options, and better long-term savings — without compromising the performance or reliability TVS is known for.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how the Raider 125 Flex Fuel compares with regular petrol bikes in terms of mileage, engine feel, and ownership experience.

Engine and Performance

The Raider Flex Fuel uses the same 124.8cc single-cylinder engine found in the standard Raider but adapted to handle varying ethanol levels. Ethanol has different combustion characteristics, so TVS engineers have fine-tuned ignition timing, compression ratio, and injectors to deliver consistent performance.

Verdict: The Flex Fuel variant delivers near-identical performance, with smoother throttle response when using ethanol blends up to E85.

What Is Flex Fuel and Why It Matters

Flex fuel refers to a system where the engine can run on a blend of ethanol and petrol in any proportion up to a certain limit — in this case, up to 85% ethanol.

Ethanol, derived from sugarcane and biomass, burns cleaner and reduces dependency on imported crude oil. India’s government has been promoting E20-compliant vehicles and now encourages E85-capable engines to reduce pollution.

Verdict: The Raider Flex Fuel is a step toward India’s self-reliant fuel ecosystem — a win for both environment and wallet.

Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

One common concern about ethanol-based fuels is mileage. Ethanol has lower energy density than petrol, but the Raider compensates with engine optimization.

Verdict: The slight mileage drop is offset by cheaper ethanol pricing, leading to similar or better running costs overall.

Riding Experience and Refinement

TVS has tuned the Raider’s 125cc engine to ensure smooth operation even with higher ethanol blends. Test rides reveal a slightly deeper exhaust note and minimal vibration changes.

Rider impressions:

• Smooth power delivery at low and mid RPMs

• Crisp throttle response even in higher ethanol blends

• Clutch and gearbox remain light and precise

• Better heat management with ethanol’s cooler combustion

Verdict: The Flex Fuel Raider retains its commuter-friendly character while adding a refined, new-age riding feel.

Design and Features

The Raider Flex Fuel edition maintains the sporty design language of the original Raider but gets distinct green-yellow graphics that reflect its eco-friendly character.

Key features include:

• Fully digital instrument cluster with fuel blend compatibility alert

• LED headlamp and tail-lamp setup

• USB charging port

• Engine start-stop switch

• Under-seat storage (first-in-segment)

• Split seat with soft cushioning

Verdict: The Flex Fuel model feels youthful and premium, keeping its appeal intact for younger riders.

Emissions and Environmental Benefits

Running on ethanol blends drastically reduces harmful exhaust gases.

Verdict: The Raider Flex Fuel aligns with India’s green mobility goals, offering measurable pollution reduction without switching to full EVs.

Price and Availability (India, November 2025)

The Raider Flex Fuel is priced competitively to appeal to mass-market buyers.

Verdict: For a price difference of under ₹10,000, buyers get future-ready technology with long-term fuel flexibility.

Maintenance and Ownership Cost

Flex-fuel vehicles have slightly different maintenance cycles due to ethanol’s properties. However, TVS has used corrosion-resistant materials in fuel lines and injectors to ensure durability.

Maintenance expectations:

• Oil change every 5,000 km

• Fuel system check every 10,000 km

• No special maintenance for regular ethanol use

Verdict: Maintenance costs remain close to the petrol version — under ₹800 per service on average.

Daily Fuel Savings

Let’s estimate the savings for a daily commuter covering 30 km per day.

Verdict: Savings of around ₹400–₹500 per month, translating to nearly ₹6,000 a year.

Target Buyers

The TVS Raider 125 Flex Fuel is ideal for riders who want eco-friendly mobility without switching to electric bikes.

Perfect for:

• Daily commuters covering 25–40 km/day

• Students and office-goers looking for long-term fuel savings

• Riders in cities where ethanol-blended fuel is widely available

Verdict: A practical and future-proof commuter for eco-conscious Indians.

Final Verdict

The TVS Raider 125 Flex Fuel blends sustainability with everyday convenience. Its ability to run on multiple fuel blends ensures flexibility, cost savings, and reduced emissions — all without sacrificing performance.

TVS has successfully created a model that bridges the gap between petrol bikes and electric mobility, making it one of India’s smartest 125cc offerings in 2025.

Verdict Summary:

• Mileage: 55–65 km/l (depending on blend)

• Price: ₹1.05 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Monthly savings: ₹400–₹500 on fuel

• Eco impact: 30–35% lower emissions

• Best for: City riders and long-term users

FAQs

What is a flex-fuel motorcycle?

It’s a bike that runs on both petrol and ethanol blends in any ratio, reducing dependency on petrol.

What is the mileage of the TVS Raider Flex Fuel?

Between 55–65 km/l, depending on ethanol blend and riding conditions.

Does ethanol affect the bike’s performance?

Not significantly — the Raider’s engine is tuned for smooth power even with 85% ethanol.

Is ethanol fuel easily available in India?

Yes, E20 fuel is now available in most cities, and E85 rollout is expanding rapidly.

Is maintenance higher for Flex Fuel bikes?

No, TVS uses corrosion-resistant materials, keeping service costs nearly identical to petrol models.