2014 new Bajaj Discover 125M India first ride

Bajaj has rolled out a new Discover 125. This one uses the 100M's frame with a 125cc engine. We rode the motorcycle to find out what the newest Discover is all about.

Another Discover?

Yes, we know the feeling. The entry-level motorcycle segment has been flooded with Discos of all shapes and displacements. The new Bajaj Discover 125M is based on the 100M's platform and the wheelbase is 50mm shorter than 125ST. The smaller wheelbase ensures flickability.

The 125M is Bajaj's product for the entry level 125cc segment customer

Bajaj says that the 125ST and the 125T are premium products and in our highly sensitive price conscious market, customers wanted a more affordable 125cc motorcycle. The 125M is Bajaj's product for the entry level 125cc segment customer. They further add that customers still prefer stylish products and the 125M is not only stylish but also bang for the buck.

Is the engine new?

This four-valve engine is already in use in the 125ST and T but has been detuned to make 11.5PS (1PS and 1.5PS less than the 125T and ST respectively)

This four-valve engine is already in use in the 125ST and T but has been detuned to make 11.5PS (1PS and 1.5PS less than the 125T and ST respectively). Interestingly the torque still stays at a high 10.8Nm and is available at 1,000rpm lower than the other motorcycles mentioned. The rationale behind detuning the engine is that Bajaj says many customers found the ST and T's power to be too much to handle. The new power figure is closer to but higher than the competition - this is what Bajaj aimed for. The claimed on-road fuel efficiency has naturally increased in the process. It now stands at 60-65kmpl as opposed to the 55-60kmpl of the 125ST.

Okay, how is it to ride?

The engine pulls cleanly from 25kmph in top gear all the way to a speedo indicated 100kmph

The moment you thumb the starter, you might feel that the engine is perhaps not as refined as the competition. However, once on the move, the motorcycle does feel quick with an all-up shift pattern close ratio 4-speed gear box which makes light work of traffic. The engine is very torquey and rarely in the Pune traffic did we feel the need to downshift from the third gear that we were trundling along in. The engine pulls cleanly from 25kmph in top gear all the way to a speedo indicated 100kmph. That being said, progress slows a bit after 60kmph. The engine also sounds louder and less comfortable nearing its top speed. It isn't designed for these speeds and is more focused at being an urban commuter. The seat is also flatter as compared to the 125ST and Bajaj claims that this brings in an ideal seating position and comfort to the rider.

The chassis is new?

The entire package is so light that flicking it through traffic is quite effortless

The 125M borrows its chassis from the Discover 100M. The kerb weight of the bike is just 118kg and it feels light. It is very easy to  pop on the main stand. The entire package is so light that flicking it through traffic is quite effortless. The Eurogrip tyres offer reasonable grip for everyday riding but some more grip would (always) have been welcome. The front disc (optional) works exactly like the 125ST's- soft and friendly and it does the job. The rear is, as usual, a drum brake. The suspension felt pliant and instead of the advanced monoshock at the rear from the ST, Bajaj have put in the regular gas charged Nitrox shockers.

Worth the money?

Bajaj have priced the 125M at Rs 46,699 for the drum version and Rs 48,619 for the disc, ex-Pune. It is nearly Rs 3-5,000 less than the competition (Honda CB Shine and Hero Glamour). The Discover 125M will appeal to those on a tight budget but want a reliable 125cc machine which promises decent real world fuel efficiency. This 125M will replace the old Discover 125, the production of which has now stopped.

Things which separate the 125M from the other 125cc Bajaj motorcycles are a shorter bikini fairing, new graphics and smaller fuel tank

Things which separate the 125M from the other 125cc Bajaj motorcycles are a shorter bikini fairing, new graphics and smaller fuel tank. So a trained eye should be able to tell the difference.

Riding shots by Kiran Jadhav