Introduction
The Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS is one of the most popular performance motorcycles in the 200cc segment in India. Launched in 2012, it quickly became a favorite among enthusiasts and remains an exciting option even after a decade thanks to its powerful engine, aggressive styling, and sporty dynamics. In this article, we take a deep dive into the Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS to understand what makes it such an intriguing motorcycle.
History of Bajaj Pulsar Motorcycles
The Pulsar range of motorcycles was introduced by Bajaj Auto in 2001 to bring performance biking to the masses. The first generation Pulsar 150 kickstarted the affordable performance motorcycle segment in India. Over the years, Bajaj kept updating the Pulsars with newer technologies and models ranging from 125cc to 400cc. The Pulsar 200, launched in 2007, was quite successful and built the foundation for the 200 NS model in 2012.
The Birth of Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS
The Pulsar 200 NS marked a major leap for the Pulsar brand as Bajaj developed it ground-up on a new perimeter frame. It was developed in collaboration with the Austrian motorcycle design company KTM. The Naked Sport (NS) moniker highlighted the exposed streetfighter styling of the bike. It was powered by an all-new triple-spark 199.5cc engine that produced 24.5PS power and 18.74Nm torque, making it the most powerful bike in its segment.
Key Features of Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS
| Features | |
| Odometer | Digital |
| Speedometer | Digital |
| Fuel Gauge | Yes |
| Digital Fuel Gauge | Yes |
| Tachometer | Analogue |
| Stand Alarm | Yes |
| No. of Tripmeters | 2 |
| Tripmeter Type | Digital |
| Low Fuel Indicator | Yes |
| Low Oil Indicator | Yes |
| Low Battery Indicator | Yes |
| Clock | Yes |
| Battery | 12V 8AH VRLA |
| Front Storage Box | No |
| Under Seat Storage | No |
| Mobile App Connectivity | No |
| DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) | Yes |
| AHO (Automatic Headlight On) | Yes |
| Shift Light | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Halogen Bulb |
| Brake/Tail Light | LED |
| Turn Signal | Halogen Bulb |
| Pass Light | Yes |
| GPS & Navigation | No |
| USB Charging Port | No |
| Start Type | Electric Start |
| Killswitch | Yes |
| Stepped Seat | Yes |
| Pillion Backrest | No |
| Pillion Grabrail | Yes |
| Pillion Seat | Yes |
| Pillion Footrest | Yes |
| Additional Features | Split Grab Rails |
Powerful Engine
The 199.5cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine comes with fuel injection and produces 24.5PS power and 18.74Nm torque. The excellent mid-range punch combined with a 6-speed gearbox makes acceleration very smooth. The machine offers usable performance for everyday city riding and short highway jaunts.
| Displacement | 199.5 cc |
| Maximum Power | 24.5 bhp @ 9750 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 18.74 Nm @ 8000 rpm |
| Mileage | ARAI Mileage – 36 kmpl |
| Riding Range | 432 Km |
| Top Speed | 145 Kmph |
| Transmission | 6 Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Chain Drive |
| Gear Shifting Pattern | 1 Down 5 Up |
| Cylinders | 1 |
| Bore | 72 mm |
| Stroke | 49 mm |
| Valves Per Cylinder | 4 |
| Compression Ratio | 11+/-0.5:1 |
| Ignition | CDI |
| Spark Plugs | 3 Per Cylinder |
| Cooling System | Liquid Cooled |
| Clutch | Wet Multiplate |
| Fuel Delivery System | Fuel Injection |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 litres |
| Reserve Fuel Capacity | 2 litres |
| Emission Standard | BS6 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
Stylish Design
An aggressive front fascia with twin projector headlamps and stripped-down bodywork gives the 200 NS a stylish streetfighter appeal. The exposed engine, meaty exhaust, and chunky tank shouts sporty from every angle. The split seats and clip-on handlebars complete the sporty stance.
| Dimensions & Chassis | |
| Kerb Weight | 159.5 kg |
| Seat Height | 805 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 168 mm |
| Overall Length | 2017 mm |
| Overall Width | 804 mm |
| Overall Height | 1075 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1363 mm |
| Chassis Type | Pressed steel Perimeter Frame |
Advanced Technology
Perimeter frame, gas-charged mono-shock suspension, front and rear disc brakes, tubeless tires, and dual-channel ABS on newer variants make the 200 NS fairly advanced for its segment. The engine boasts fuel injection, triple-spark plugs, and liquid cooling. The bike also features a part-digital instrumentation console.
Superior Handling
The perimeter frame chassis along with the USD (upside-down forks) upfront and mono-shock at the rear gives the bike surefooted handling characteristics. The riding position is sporty with rear-set footpegs giving ample lean angle for corner carving. The bike remains planted at high speeds and changes direction very quickly.
| Brakes, Wheels & Suspension | |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Front Fork with Antifriction Bush |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono Shock Absorber with Canister |
| Braking System | Single Channel ABS |
| Front Brake Type | Disc |
| Front Brake Size | 300 mm |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc |
| Rear Brake Size | 230 mm |
| Calliper Type | Dual Piston |
| Wheel Type | Alloy |
| Front Wheel Size | 17 inch |
| Rear Wheel Size | 17 inch |
| Front Tyre Size | 100/80 – 17 |
| Rear Tyre Size | 130/70 – 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless |
| Radial Tyres | Yes |
| Front Tyre Pressure (Rider) | 25 psi |
| Rear Tyre Pressure (Rider) | 28 psi |
| Front Tyre Pressure (R&P) | 25 psi |
| Rear Tyre Pressure (R&P) | 32 psi |
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Riding Experience and Performance
The Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS offers a sporty and energetic riding experience. The lightweight build combined with the peppy engine gives the bike an eager feel. Acceleration is linear and the bike responds well to throttle inputs. The 6-speed gearbox provides flexibility both in the city and on highways. The Pulsar 200 NS can hit 0-60 kmph in under 4 seconds and 100 kmph in less than 14 seconds. The top speed is over 145kmph. The bike impresses with its nimble handling while the suspension easily soaks up undulations. The wide tires provide a good grip while cornering enthusiastically.
Comparison with Competitors
Yamaha FZ-S
The Yamaha FZ-S with its 149cc air-cooled engine cannot match the Pulsar 200 NS in performance. But it has a good low and mid-range, refined engine, and better ergonomics for daily rides. The FZ-S has a softer suspension setup for comfort over sporty handling.
KTM Duke 200
The KTM Duke 200 is slightly more powerful than the Pulsar 200 NS but costs almost double. The extra pony power is the only major advantage of the KTM over the well-rounded Pulsar. The Pulsar offers better value along with comparable real-world performance.
TVS Apache RTR 200 4V
The TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is the closest competitor to the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 in terms of performance, features, and pricing. The Apache with its 197.7cc fuel-injected engine makes 20.5PS power and 17.25Nm torque. It matches the Pulsar in acceleration and handling. Boils down to whether you prefer the naked-streetfighter styling of the Pulsar or the racing DNA of the Apache.
The Pulsar Community and Culture
The Bajaj Pulsar enjoys a cult following across India. Pulsar owner groups and communities are present in every major city. Enthusiasts take part in tours, meets, and even track days together. Custom builds, accessories, and modifications are commonly seen in the Pulsar community which celebrates this bike’s performance and style quotient. It is a motorcycle loved by everyone from college students to mid-aged executives for its power, ease of riding, and affordability.
Upgrades and Variants
Over the years, Bajaj has continued to refine and upgrade the Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS to keep up with evolving market trends and customer preferences. Two notable variants worth mentioning are the Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS FI (Fuel Injection) and the Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The FI variant brings improved fuel efficiency and smoother throttle response, while the ABS version ensures enhanced safety by preventing wheel lock during hard braking.
Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS Single Channel ABS
In 2017 Bajaj introduced the fuel-injected model of the Pulsar 200 NS. The FI variant boosts power output to 24.5 bhp and improves throttle response.
Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS DUAL Channel ABS
The latest Pulsar 200 NS comes equipped with a single-channel ABS unit which improves overall braking performance in challenging conditions. This much-needed safety addition does not take away the bike’s playful handling.
Maintenance and Service Tips
To keep the Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS performing at its best, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some crucial maintenance tips for owners:
Regular Oil Changes
The 200cc engine is high-strung for a Pulsar, so follow the recommended oil change intervals. Use good quality engine oil.
Tire Maintenance
Inspect tires regularly for any cuts or bulges. Look out for signs of abnormal or uneven wear. Maintain recommended tire pressures.
Chain Maintenance
Clean the chain regularly using chain cleaners and lube it adequately to avoid premature chain/sprocket wear. Adjust chain slack as per manual guidelines. Replace the chain if sag exceeds limits.
| Manufacturer Warranty | |
| Standard Warranty | 5 Years |
| Warranty (Kilometers) | 75000 Km |
Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS in Popular Media
The Pulsar 200 NS has been featured in many automotive magazines, websites, and YouTube channels. It is often reviewed as the benchmark vehicle in the 200-250cc performance motorcycle segment given its value for money quotient. Several Pulsar NS200 custom builds have also garnered attention online for their stunning looks and performance.
Owner’s Reviews and Testimonials
Owners praise the Pulsar 200 NS for its incredible power delivery, sporty handling dynamics, and head-turning styling. Many fans say it is the best Pulsar for an enthusiastic street rider. The lightweight maneuverability makes it an ideal city bike. Tall riders find the bike comfortable for long rides. Most owners report mileages around 35-40 kmpl in everyday riding conditions. Build quality and reliability have improved over the years but a few complain about plastic quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS suitable for beginners?
Yes, the flexible engine, linear power delivery, and predictable handling of the Pulsar 200 NS make it quite friendly for beginners. New riders can easily get accustomed to the bike’s performance.
How is the fuel efficiency of the bike?
The bike offers a fuel efficiency of 35-40 kmpl in city traffic and around 40-45 kmpl on highways. The numbers may vary based on riding style.
Can the bike handle long-distance rides comfortably?
Yes, the Pulsar 200 NS with its sporty riding position can easily handle long rides of 500 km or more. The engine stays relaxed even at highway cruising speeds.
What are the available color options?
The Pulsar 200 NS is available in colors like Blue, Orange, Yellow, and Grey over the years along with the signature Black color. Special edition colors keep getting added occasionally.
Does it come with a warranty?
Yes, Bajaj offers a 5-year or 75,000 km warranty on the Pulsar NS200 to cover manufacturing defects.
Conclusion
The Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS offers an unbeatable package of sporty style, engaging performance, and everyday practicality. This iconic motorcycle continues to win over enthusiasts even a decade after its launch. For riders looking for affordable thrills on two wheels, the Pulsar 200 NS ticks all the right boxes and remains a compelling choice.
