Bajaj Pulsar N150 vs Bajaj Pulsar P150: All That’s Different

Both bikes pack the same 150cc engine making 14.5PS and 13.5Nm

• The biggest visual difference between the two bikes is obviously the design
• If you like your bikes to look sporty and aggressive, you’ll definitely love the N150 more
• Apart from that, there are some minor changes under the hood as well

Bajaj has recently introduced the all-new Pulsar N150 to the Indian market. While it may be branded as "new," it's important to note that it shares its foundation with the Pulsar P150. In this article, we'll delve into the key distinctions between these two motorcycles to help you make an informed choice. The two 150cc Pulsars compete against Hero Xtreme 160R, TVS Apache RTR 160, Yamaha FZ-fi-V3, and Honda SP160. 

Design:

The most apparent dissimilarity between the Pulsar N150 and Pulsar P150 lies in their designs. The Pulsar P150 boasts a sporty commuter appearance, but when you set your eyes on the N150, you can't help but admire its striking aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from the N160, the N150 exhibits a more robust look, with beefy tank extensions that exude a rugged, muscular appeal. This design overhaul places the N150 a notch above its sibling, the P150, in terms of style.

Underpinnings:

The divergence continues in the underpinnings of these motorcycles, particularly in the braking department. The Pulsar N150 features a 260mm disc brake at the front and a 130mm drum unit at the rear, ensuring reliable stopping power. In contrast, the Pulsar P150 offers an additional option - a 230mm disc at the rear. Interestingly, both motorcycles come equipped with 17-inch wheels, but the N150 gains an edge with chunkier tyres, enhancing its road grip and stability.

Kerb Weight:

One aspect that can significantly impact your riding experience is the weight of the bike. The Pulsar N150 weighs in at 145kg, which is 5kg heavier than its counterpart, the Pulsar P150. This disparity in weight may influence maneuverability and handling in various situations. What we found to be rather annoying was the fact that despite getting more inferior componentry, the N150 has still gained weight over the P150, a bike whose main USP was its nimble and lightweight feel. 

Furthermore, when it comes to the seating arrangement, the N150 opts for a single-seat setup, whereas the Pulsar P150's twin-disc variant boasts a sportier split-seat configuration. These distinctions in seating offer diverse options to cater to different riding preferences. 

Disc Brakes:

These things said Bajaj should really have given the N150 with a disc brake at the rear, at least as an option that riders could pay extra for. While disc brakes in themselves are almost always better than drum brakes, what a disc brake would’ve also helped in, is giving dual-channel ABS. It is something that the Pulsar N160 gets and we wish the N150 got it too, at least in one of its higher, more expensive variants. While that would not have helped Bajaj financially, it would’ve helped riders stay safe on the roads too.

Handle Bar: 

Another critical component that sets these bikes apart is the handlebar design. The N150 features a single tubular handlebar unit, which caters to the commuter crowd, focusing on comfort during daily rides. In contrast, the Pulsar P150 opts for clip-on handlebars, providing a sportier and more aggressive riding posture. This variation in handlebars is aligned with the different riding experiences these bikes aim to offer.

In conclusion, the Pulsar N150 and Pulsar P150, while sharing a common lineage, offer distinct features that cater to a variety of riders. The N150's enhanced design, robust brakes, and commuter-friendly handlebar make it an excellent choice for those seeking style and comfort in their daily commutes. On the other hand, the Pulsar P150 offers a split-seat setup, sportier handlebars, and an optional rear disc brake for riders looking for a more spirited and dynamic experience.

Verdict

The N150 comes in at a price that's a good Rs 13,000 cheaper than the N160. Although the N160 is undeniably the superior bike, the N150 really stands out due to its affordability. It's been priced quite reasonably. So, if you're watching your budget closely, the N150 is a sensible choice.

One thing that bothered us, though, was that the N150 is heavier than the P150, even though it has fewer features. We wished Bajaj had offered a rear disc brake, at least as an optional addition. This would have allowed the bike to have dual-channel ABS, which is a great safety feature on our roads. But if you can live with these two compromises, the N150 is a bike you'll probably like. 

In summary, the Bajaj Pulsar N150 impresses with its design, torque-friendly engine, lightweight frame, and competitive pricing. It might not be for those seeking peak performance, but it excels as a stylish and practical choice for city commuters and budget-conscious bike enthusiasts.