Bajaj Sonic 125cc: Bajaj Sonic 125: Bajaj Auto is all set to enter the highly competitive 125cc segment with a brand-new model.
Set to be revealed next month, this two-wheeler is set to take the commuter space by storm with aggressive pricing, modern design and a feature-rich package that it can make wave in the segment and rework the price-value equation.
Table of Contents
Bajaj Sonic 125cc: Market Positioning and Anticipated Price
The company intends for the Sonic 125 to soon replace its 125cc commuter lineup, targeted at the Hero Glamour, Honda Shine and TVS Raider.
Let’s talk money: the motorcycle is slated to debut with a competitive introductory price of ₹82,000 to ₹88,000 (ex-showroom), undercutting most rival offerings by ₹3,000-5,000 while providing class-comparable (or better) features.
“Bajaj has always prided themselves on aggressive pricing when it comes to new models, and the Sonic is no exception,” says Pune-based Bajaj dealer Rajesh Kumar who has already had a look at the motorcycle at a recent dealer preview.
The base variant is at the price of around ₹82,000 which is definitely going to raise eyebrows, especially, considering the features they are offering at that price point.”
This pricing strategy seems tailored to appeal to first-time 125cc buyers migrating up from 100cc motorcycles, and potentially entice some buyers who might otherwise consider 150cc alternatives like the Bajaj’s own Pulsar 150, particularly in the more price-sensitive segment of the market.
Design and Styling
The Sonic 125 wears what Bajaj internally refers to its “Urban Commuter” styling, which is distinct from the sharper, more performance-oriented styling of the Pulsar lineup and also the utilitarian approach of the Platina range.
The spy shots that splashed across the Internet last week reveal a bike with clean lines, a beefy tank with unique shrouds and a contemporary LED headlamp assembly that makes it look higher up in price segment.
“The last thing you think of when you look at these spy images is budget commuter,” says the automotive designer Priya Sharma, who has studied the spy images.
“The proportions are well executed, and there’s a [complexity] to subtle details like the contoured seat and the alloy wheel design that contributes to the [aesthetic]. Bajaj has definitely put some thought into making this visually appealing for youngsters buyers.”
The Scepter is expected to be available in Sonic Blue, Ebony Black, Crimson Red, or a unique Matte Titanium featuring copper accent graphics—something of an oddball but attention-grabbing combination in this traditionally staid segment.
Engine and Performance
The engine stumping the Sonic 125 is a new air cooled single, with a 124.4cc capacity that helps deliver 11.5hp @ 8,500 RPM and 11Nm @ a usefully low 6,000 RPM.
Though those numbers aren’t class leading for the segment, sources tell us that the engine has been “tuned specifically for great low and mid-range torque,” prioritizing the kind of performance we’re more likely to need in real life, during our daily commutes.
The engine, according to reports, also utilises Bajaj’s DTS-i (Digital Twin Spark Ignition) technology that is aimed at enhancing the efficiency of combustion, and an advanced resonator system that reduces vibrations — a constant grievance in the segment.
There is a heel-and-toe shifter with a five-speed gearbox, while the gear pattern making it easier for speedy shifts in stop-and-go traffic.
Fuel economy, always a top priority in this segment, is expected to be class-competitive with an official claim of around 65 kilometers per litre (62 mpg) under the standard testing regime.
Mixed riding figures for real world efficiency are expected to sit around 55-60 kmpl—figures that, again, should satisfy the target audience’s practical needs.
Features and Technology
The Sonic 125’s biggest differentiator, however, is its feature set. Even the base variant is expected to get LED headlamps, a digital-analog instrument cluster, a USB charging port, and a side-stand engine cut-off function — features that still cost extra on some rivals.
The higher-end Sonic 125 DTS-i comes with a fully-digital instrument cluster as well including Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation prompts, call and message alerts, and tracking of ride statistics through a smartphone app.
Typically, connected vehicle technology has been found in their more premium segments, so this is a notable inclusion at this price point.
“They’re bringing features down from higher segments like they did with Pulsar years ago,” says motorcycle journalist Vikram Menon.
“The connected features, in particular, will interest younger, tech-savvy buyers with modern conveniences who don’t wish to stretch to a 150cc or 160cc motorcycle.”
Safety features include a combi-braking system (CBS) for the drum brake variant and single-channel ABS for the disc brake variant, as well as the hazard lamp function activated via a dedicated switch, which is a welcome addition considering the state of the roads in India.
Chassis and Ergonomics
The Sonic 125 uses a new tubular frame, which Bajaj says strikes the ideal compromise between the stiffness needed for handling, and the flex required for ride comfort.
At the front, standard telescopic forks and twin shock absorbers at the rear with 5-step preload adjustability take care of suspension duties — a setup designed for comfort over rough urban surface instead of sporty handling.
The rider triangle looks aimed at comfort, with a fairly upright seating posture, moderately rear-set footpegs, and a wide handlebar that ought to give good leverage for weaving through traffic.
The seat height is around 790mm so should fit a variety of riders, and the narrow midsection means placing your foot down at stops shouldn’t be an issue.
The ground clearance is claimed to be 165mm, which is more than enough to go over all the typical urban obstacles without having to give up on the low seat height a lot of Indian riders favour to maximise their confidence while at a stop.
Bajaj Sonic 125cc When It Launches and Its Availability
Officially, the launch is set for the third week of next month, dealers in Bajaj’s network have told us, with deliveries starting almost immediately (in metropolitans at least) post-launch.
Production ramp-up will help expand availability in Tier-2 cities and rural markets through October and November.
Bajaj will manufacture 25,000-30,000 units a month in the initial phase and will be able to ramp up production depending on the customer demand.
The company s comprehensive sales and service network—one of its major usps against competition—will keep the Sonic 125 widespread and easy to keep on the road nationally.
As the festival season approaches, the timing is just right,” says market analyst Deepak Sharma. “If they can deliver on the expected price point and features, the Sonic could be one of the surprise hits of this year’s festive season, especially if they back it up with the sort of marketing push that Bajaj are known to deliver.”
With the launch date drawing near, the anticipation only continues to rise for what could be one of the most significant 125cc entries seen in several years!
