Bajaj Pulsar NS200

Overview

The NS200 was the first bike that came out of the Bajaj-KTM partnership, and over the years it has been able to retain a commanding presence in the sports naked category. But since its launch there hasn’t been any changes except the occasional updates to conform with government emission standards. The new NS200 has changed that and brings with it some much needed updates. 

Design

Design and styling still remains the same and the NS200 still features the semi-digital instrument cluster but this time with more information such as a gear position indicator and distance to empty. The most visible design change that can be noticed is the addition of the new USD fork that gives the bike a distinct look when compared to the older variant. The bike also comes in 4 colour options: Ebony Black, Pearl Metallic White, Pewter Grey and Cocktail Wine Red.

Engine, mileage and performance

The NS200 hasn’t undergone any upgrades in the performance department and is powered by the same 199.5cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that’s derived from the KTM Duke 200.The engine produces 24.5PS at 9750rpm and 18.7Nm at 8000rpm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox and gives a mileage of 36 kmpl according to Bajaj. 

When looking at the other motorcycles in the same segment like the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and Honda Hornet 2.0, the NS200 is able to easily outclass them when it comes to performance and has a clear edge in this department.

Handling and ride quality

The handling and ride quality have changed significantly since Bajaj brought in major updates such as:

• A 33mm USD fork – similar to the one found on the Brazil-spec Dominar 160

• 300mm/230mm disc brake setup from the Pulsar 250

• Dual-channel ABS

The new 33mm USD fork has altered the bike’s handling characteristics and made it more planted and easier to hit corners, the steering effort required to flick the bike from side to side has gone down significantly. The stock settings on the USD forks seem quite balanced and are neither too stiff or too soft and this makes riding through city traffic easy. The old ByBre brakes have been replaced with Grimeca ones we’ve seen on the Pulsar N250 and the F250. This has given the new NS200 a 300mm disc at the front and 230mm one at the rear. The petal discs have also made way for normal circular ones.

Comfort

When it comes to riding comfort the NS200 manages to strike a good balance. The riding geometry, suspension set up and overall handling character make the bike both a good commuter and a performance-oriented naked. Potholes can be easily handled and the bike remains planted.

Features

In terms of features, the NS200 misses out on a lot. Sure, the updated console comes with more information like distance-to-empty, real-time fuel efficiency indicator and a gear position indicator, but these features have been added in too late. The bike’s competitors like the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V already have this and much more.

Should you buy the NS200?

The NS200 is still a good motorcycle and offers better performance when compared to its rivals in the segment like the Apache RTR 200 4v and the Honda Hornet 2.0, and is only outclassed by the KTM Duke 200. The bike overall does provide a good riding experience and performance at an attractive price of Rs 1.49 lakh(ex-showroom Delhi) so if you are someone who is interested in performance, the NS200 will be perfect for you.

But if performance is not the main concern and you want a full package with modern features then the NS200 wouldn’t be suitable.