The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 stands as a testament to Bajaj Auto’s commitment to excellence in the motorcycle industry. Since its inception, the Pulsar NS200 has evolved into one of the most iconic motorcycles in the Indian market, taking the 200cc segment by storm. Known for its sporty design, reliable performance, and advanced features, the Pulsar NS200 has captured the hearts of riders looking for a powerful, yet practical, machine that offers an all-round thrilling riding experience.
In this article, we will explore the latest updates, features, performance, and overall riding experience of the Bajaj Pulsar NS200. We will delve into why this motorcycle remains a popular choice for enthusiasts across various riding segments and discuss its continued success in a highly competitive market.
A Brief History of the Bajaj Pulsar NS200
The Pulsar NS200 first made its debut in India in 2012 as part of Bajaj’s strategy to cater to the growing demand for performance-oriented motorcycles in the mid-segment. The “NS” in the name stands for “Naked Sports,” signifying its aggressive, naked bike styling aimed at enthusiasts who wanted a performance-focused machine that didn’t compromise on looks. The Pulsar NS200 received widespread acclaim for its design, technology, and overall performance, offering a perfect balance between power, handling, and affordability.
In 2017, Bajaj updated the Pulsar NS200 with significant changes, including the introduction of a liquid-cooled engine, advanced braking systems, and improved handling. This move cemented the Pulsar NS200 as a major player in the competitive 200cc segment. With a combination of cutting-edge technology and a competitive price tag, the NS200 continued to dominate its segment, outpacing rivals and winning over loyal riders.
Striking Design and Ergonomics
One of the most prominent aspects of the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 is its aggressive and muscular design. The bike features a sharp and dynamic silhouette, combining elements of a naked streetfighter with the power and attitude of a performance-oriented motorcycle. The edgy lines, sculpted fuel tank, and aggressive headlamp design contribute to its road presence, making the NS200 a true showstopper in any urban or rural setting.
At the front, the bike boasts a sleek and angular headlamp that features twin projector lamps, giving the Pulsar NS200 a fierce look while ensuring excellent night visibility. The front fender, with its bold design, complements the muscular stance of the bike, adding to its overall aggressive styling. The high-mounted fuel tank and wide, angular side panels further enhance the bike’s sporty and dynamic look.
In terms of ergonomics, the Pulsar NS200 offers a comfortable yet sporty riding posture. The bike features a slightly forward-set handlebar and rear-set footpegs, providing an aggressive but not overly extreme riding position. The split-style seat ensures comfort on long rides, offering ample support while also maintaining a modern, aggressive design.
Powertrain and Performance
The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 is powered by a 199.5cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that delivers a peak power output of 24.5 horsepower at 9,750 rpm and 18.5 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm. This engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, providing smooth power delivery and strong performance at all rev ranges.
The NS200’s engine uses a triple-spark technology (Triple Spark Ignition), which improves combustion efficiency, providing more power while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The performance is further enhanced by the bike’s liquid-cooling system, which ensures consistent engine temperatures, particularly during long or aggressive rides.
In terms of acceleration and top speed, the Pulsar NS200 excels. The bike can go from 0 to 60 km/h in just 3 seconds, and its top speed hovers around 135 km/h, making it one of the fastest motorcycles in its segment. The engine delivers a thrilling riding experience, whether you are cruising at a steady pace or pushing the bike to its limits. The linear power delivery and responsive throttle make it an absolute joy to ride, providing an exhilarating performance on both city roads and highways.
Handling and Chassis
The Bajaj Pulsar NS200’s handling is one of its most celebrated features. The bike is built around a perimeter frame, which is lightweight yet highly rigid, offering exceptional stability and agility. The frame ensures that the bike feels planted during high-speed maneuvers while still offering sharp, responsive handling through tight city streets and corners.
The suspension setup of the Pulsar NS200 consists of a 33mm telescopic fork at the front and a mono-shock absorber at the rear. This combination strikes a good balance between comfort and performance, ensuring the bike is capable of handling both smooth highways and rough city roads. The suspension system effectively absorbs bumps and uneven surfaces, making long-distance rides comfortable while maintaining stability during aggressive cornering.
The bike’s low curb weight of around 148 kg further contributes to its impressive handling. With a seat height of 805 mm, the Pulsar NS200 offers an accessible riding position for a wide range of riders, enhancing both comfort and control. The bike’s lightweight nature makes it easy to flick around corners and navigate through dense city traffic, making it an ideal choice for both weekend enthusiasts and daily commuters.
Braking and Safety Features
The Pulsar NS200 is equipped with a 280mm front disc brake and a 230mm rear disc brake, both of which offer excellent stopping power. The bike also comes equipped with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, ensuring that riders can safely decelerate even in wet or slippery conditions. ABS prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, improving safety and control, especially in emergency situations.
The braking system of the NS200 is responsive, providing a good balance of feel and feedback at the lever. This ensures that the rider can control the bike’s deceleration accurately, whether they are navigating through traffic or slowing down for a corner. The addition of ABS is a welcome safety feature, further enhancing the bike’s credibility as a reliable and secure motorcycle for riders of all experience levels.
Features and Technology
The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 is equipped with a range of features that enhance its usability and overall riding experience. The bike features a fully digital instrument cluster that displays essential information, including speed, rpm, fuel level, trip meters, and more. The display is clear, bright, and easy to read, even in direct sunlight, ensuring the rider has all the necessary information at a glance.
The Pulsar NS200 also comes with LED tail lamps and stylish LED indicators, which not only improve visibility but also add to the bike’s modern aesthetic. The bike’s bold stance is further complemented by the inclusion of a nitrogen-charged rear shock absorber, which provides added stability during high-speed cornering and aggressive riding.
Ride Experience
The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 offers an engaging and fun-filled ride. The combination of smooth power delivery, responsive handling, and comfortable ergonomics makes it suitable for both city commuting and spirited weekend rides. The bike’s versatility ensures that it’s capable of providing both comfort and thrill, regardless of the riding conditions. Whether you’re navigating through tight traffic, enjoying long rides on the open road, or attacking twisty mountain roads, the NS200 proves to be a reliable and enjoyable companion.
The refined engine performance, combined with the bike’s lightweight chassis and sharp handling, provides an exciting riding experience. The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth ride, even on rough roads, while ensuring stability during high-speed cornering. The NS200 is a true all-rounder, offering the perfect mix of sportiness, practicality, and affordability.
Verdict: The Pulsar NS200 Continues to Impress
The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 remains one of the most complete and exciting motorcycles in the 200cc segment. Its aggressive design, powerful performance, and advanced features make it a standout option for anyone looking for a reliable, performance-oriented bike at a competitive price. With its blend of style, power, and affordability, the Pulsar NS200 continues to impress riders of all experience levels, making it one of the top choices in the 200cc segment.
Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend warrior, or someone who simply loves the thrill of riding, the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 offers an unbeatable combination of features that ensure an exhilarating ride every time you hit the road. As one of the leaders in its category, the Pulsar NS200 is truly a motorcycle that punches above its weight, making it a favorite among riders who demand more from their machines.