Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Zabardast Performance at 65 kmpl!
Are you in the market for a sporty 125cc motorcycle that offers both style and substance? Look no further than the Bajaj Pulsar NS125. This pocket rocket packs a punch with its performance-oriented design and impressive fuel efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Pulsar NS125 a standout choice in the competitive 125cc segment.
Striking Design That Turns Heads
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 borrows its design cues from its larger siblings, the NS160 and NS200, giving it a premium and aggressive look. The bike features a muscular fuel tank, sharp body panels, and a sporty split-seat setup that screams performance.
At the front, you’ll find a sleek LED headlamp with LED daytime running lights (DRLs) that not only enhance visibility but also add to the bike’s modern appeal. The rear section sports an LED tail lamp, completing the contemporary look.
Color options for the Pulsar NS125 include:
- Fiery Orange
- Beach Blue
- Pewter Grey
- Burnt Red
These vibrant color choices ensure that you’ll stand out on the road, no matter which one you pick.
Heart of the Beast: Engine and Performance
Under the sporty exterior lies the heart of the Pulsar NS125 – a 124.45cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. This powerplant is tuned to deliver a perfect balance of performance and efficiency. Here are the key specifications:
- Maximum Power: 12 PS @ 8,500 rpm
- Peak Torque: 11 Nm @ 7,000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
The engine’s character is peppy, with a strong mid-range that makes city riding a breeze. You’ll find ample power for quick overtakes and zipping through traffic. On the highway, the NS125 can comfortably cruise at speeds of 70-80 kmph, making it suitable for occasional long rides as well.
One of the standout features of the Pulsar NS125 is its impressive fuel efficiency. Bajaj claims a mileage of 64.75 kmpl under test conditions. In real-world riding, users report getting between 55-60 kmpl, which is excellent for a sporty 125cc motorcycle.
Chassis and Suspension: Balancing Comfort and Handling
The Pulsar NS125 is built on a perimeter frame, which provides excellent stability and handling characteristics. The suspension setup consists of:
- Front: Telescopic forks
- Rear: Monoshock absorber
This combination offers a good balance between ride comfort and sporty handling. The bike feels planted through corners and remains stable at high speeds. At the same time, it soaks up road imperfections well, ensuring a comfortable ride for both the rider and pillion.
The 17-inch alloy wheels are shod with tubeless tires, providing good grip and easy maintenance. The wheel sizes are:
- Front: 80/100-17
- Rear: 100/90-17
Braking duties are handled by a 240mm disc brake at the front and a 130mm drum brake at the rear. The bike comes equipped with a Combined Braking System (CBS) for added safety.
Feature-Packed for the Tech-Savvy Rider
Despite its competitive pricing, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 doesn’t skimp on features. Here’s what you get:
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- Gear position indicator
- Bluetooth connectivity (on select variants)
- USB charging port
- LED headlamp and tail lamp
- Clip-on handlebars for sporty ergonomics
- Split grab rails
The digital instrument cluster provides all the necessary information at a glance, including speed, fuel level, odometer, and trip meters. The Bluetooth-enabled variant allows you to connect your smartphone for features like call and SMS notifications.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Pulsar NS125 strikes a good balance between sporty riding posture and everyday comfort. The clip-on handlebars are positioned for a slightly leaned-forward riding position, giving you a sense of sportiness without being too aggressive.
The seat height of 805mm is accessible for most riders, and the narrow tank allows for easy flat-footing. The split seat design provides good support for both the rider and pillion, making it comfortable for short to medium-distance rides.
With a kerb weight of 144 kg, the NS125 is relatively light and easy to maneuver in city traffic. The 12-liter fuel tank capacity ensures a good range between fill-ups, especially considering the bike’s excellent fuel efficiency.
Price and Variants
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is offered in a single variant, with prices starting at Rs. 1,01,050 (ex-showroom, Delhi). This competitive pricing makes it an attractive option in the 125cc segment, especially considering its sporty design and feature list.
Here’s a breakdown of the on-road prices in major cities:
| City | On-Road Price (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | Rs. 1,19,458 |
| Mumbai | Rs. 1,20,000 |
| Bangalore | Rs. 1,39,000 |
| Chennai | Rs. 1,28,000 |
| Hyderabad | Rs. 1,24,000 |
The slight variations in on-road prices are due to differences in state taxes and insurance costs.
How It Stacks Up Against Competitors
The 125cc segment is highly competitive, with several strong contenders. Here’s how the Pulsar NS125 compares to its rivals:
| Model | Engine | Power | Torque | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bajaj Pulsar NS125 | 124.45cc | 12 PS | 11 Nm | Rs. 1,01,050 |
| Hero Xtreme 125R | 124.7cc | 11.4 PS | 10.9 Nm | Rs. 95,000 |
| TVS Raider 125 | 124.8cc | 11.38 PS | 11.2 Nm | Rs. 89,990 |
| Honda SP 125 | 124cc | 10.8 PS | 10.9 Nm | Rs. 85,131 |
While the Pulsar NS125 is priced slightly higher than some of its competitors, it justifies the premium with its sporty design, powerful engine, and feature list.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Q1: What is the real-world mileage of the Bajaj Pulsar NS125?
While Bajaj claims a mileage of 64.75 kmpl under test conditions, real-world users report getting between 55-60 kmpl in mixed riding conditions. This makes the Pulsar NS125 one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in its segment.
Q2: Does the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 have ABS?
The Pulsar NS125 doesn’t come with ABS. Instead, it features a Combined Braking System (CBS) which enhances braking performance by applying force to both wheels when the rear brake is engaged.
Q3: What is the top speed of the Bajaj Pulsar NS125?
The Pulsar NS125 has a claimed top speed of 103 km/h. However, real-world top speed may vary depending on factors like rider weight, road conditions, and wind resistance.
Q4: How does the Pulsar NS125 compare to the Pulsar 125?
The Pulsar NS125 is sportier and more premium than the standard Pulsar 125. It offers better performance, a more aggressive design, and additional features like a digital instrument cluster and LED lighting.
Q5: Is the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 good for long rides?
While primarily designed for urban commuting, the Pulsar NS125 can handle occasional long rides. Its comfortable ergonomics, decent power output, and good fuel efficiency make it suitable for short to medium-distance touring.
Wrapping Up
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 offers a compelling package for riders seeking a sporty 125cc motorcycle. With its aggressive styling, peppy performance, and impressive fuel efficiency, it strikes a fine balance between excitement and practicality. While it may be priced slightly higher than some competitors, the additional features and brand value make it a strong contender in the segment. Whether you’re a young enthusiast looking for your first sports bike or a commuter wanting a dash of excitement in your daily ride, the Pulsar NS125 is definitely worth considering.
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