New Delhi
Bajaj Pulsar NS200 Review: Fast But A Bit Obsolete
Reviews by Team Drivio | 14 Jul 2023
Bigger disc brakes, dual-channel ABS and a lot more, the updated bikes pack a couple of new bits.
- The NS200’s 199.5cc liquid-cooled engine now makes 24.5PS and 18.7Nm.
- At Rs 1,49,363 (ex-showroom Delhi), the updated NS200 costs Rs 6,681 more than before.
- A new dual-channel ABS system should ensure better safety on the 200cc bike.
The Bajaj Pulsar NS series made a significant impact when it was introduced by Bajaj. The unveiling of the Pulsar NS200 in 2011 created a sensation in the market, showcasing Bajaj Auto's remarkable progress in performance and engineering. With its engine derived from KTM, the Pulsar NS200 quickly gained popularity and solidified Bajaj's dominance in the entry-level performance segment.
Over the course of more than a decade, the Bajaj Pulsar NS series has continued to exist and is now available in various displacements. However, facing competition from both internal and external sources, the NS series began to show signs of aging.
Recognizing this, Bajaj provided the Pulsar NS200 and Pulsar NS160 with their first significant updates since their inception. The question remains: are these updates sufficient, and more importantly, do these motorcycles still hold relevance in the market? Let’s find out:
Bajaj Pulsar NS 200: Design & Features
The Bajaj Pulsar NS200’s looks haven’t really changed ever since it came out in 2012, so it seems a bit old-fashioned now. The older version of the Pulsar NS200 comes in four colors: Fiery Yellow, Wild Red, Graphite Black, and Mirage White.
When it comes to features, the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 has a headlight with pilot lamps, a tail light that uses LED lights, and bulb indicators. The updated model also has a slightly changed console that shows you how much distance you can still go before running out of fuel, the mileage you're getting in real-time, and what gear you're in. It also shows the basics like how fast you're going, how much fuel you have, and the readings for your odometer and trip meter.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 200: Engine
| Specifications | Bajaj Pulsar NS200 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 199.5cc liquid-cooled engine |
| Maximum Power | 24.5PS @ 9750 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 18.74Nm @ 8000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
The Pulsar NS200 has maintained its bold and aggressive nature. It still has that raw power and loves being ridden hard. It has improved its performance in cornering, as the front end feels more stable and easier to control. In fact, when riding on the tight sections of the Bajaj test track, it required very little effort to maneuver the bike from side to side, possibly as easy as the KTM Dukes.
However, there were a couple of issues that stood out during the track test. The footpegs kept touching the ground frequently, which can be uncomfortable. Additionally, the suspension, specifically the monoshock, felt a bit soft and required adjusting the preload to make it more stable on bumpy parts of the track.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 200: Suspension, Tyres & Brakes
| Specifications | Bajaj Pulsar NS200 |
|---|---|
| Front suspension | Inverted fork |
| Rear suspension | Gas-charged monoshock |
| Front tyre | 100/80-17 |
| Rear tyre | 130/70-17 |
| Front brake | 300mm disc |
| Rear brake | 230mm disc |
| ABS | Dual-channel as standard |
The Pulsar NS200 hasn't received any upgrades in terms of performance, styling, features, or connectivity. This can be disappointing considering that its competitors have made significant improvements in these areas. If you're looking for performance enhancements, you may be let down.
However, Bajaj claims that both the Pulsar NS200 and Pulsar NS160 are the leaders in their respective engine capacity segments when it comes to performance. The focus of the update was to improve the handling and overall riding experience rather than boosting performance.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 200: Dimensions
| Dimensions | Bajaj Pulsar NS200 |
|---|---|
| Length | 2017mm |
| Width | 804mm |
| Height | 1075mm |
| Wheelbase | 1363mm |
| Ground clearance | 168mm |
| Kerb weight | 158kg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 12-litres |
| Seat height | 807mm |
In theory, a USD (upside-down) fork provides more stiffness and rigidity to the front of the motorcycle. This results in improved feedback and responsiveness for the rider. However, we weren’t able to make a direct comparison between the old and new forks because we didn't have the opportunity to ride both versions back to back.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 200: Price
| Price | Bajaj Pulsar NS200 |
|---|---|
| Ex-showroom Delhi | Rs 1,49,363 |
The Pulsar NS200 comes in just one version, and its price in Delhi, India, is Rs 1,49,363 (excluding taxes and other charges). You can choose from four different colors: Ebony Black, Pearl Metallic White, Cocktail Wine Red, and Pewter Grey.
Verdict
Yes, the Pulsar NS200 is still relevant. In fact, it continues to be a popular choice among customers, outselling the newer Pulsar 250 models by a significant margin. The reason for its enduring popularity is clear. The NS200 is still an exhilarating and fun-to-ride motorcycle, with a high-revving engine and an exciting riding experience.
With the recent updates, it has become even better. In the Indian market, the Pulsar NS200 retains its significance and remains an important part of the Pulsar brand's legacy.
