Bajaj Pulsar 125: A Comprehensive Review

The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is one of the most popular entry-level motorcycles in India, offering an affordable yet powerful option for daily commuting and light touring. It retains the iconic design and sporty appeal of the Pulsar series but comes in a more accessible package. Let’s take a closer look at the features, specifications, and what makes the Pulsar 125 a standout choice in the 125cc segment.

Overview of Bajaj Pulsar 125

The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is a mileage-friendly motorcycle available in six variants and up to 25 color options, catering to diverse preferences. It is powered by a 124.4cc, BS6-compliant engine that generates a maximum power of 11.64 bhp and a torque of 10.8 Nm. With a weight of 140 kg, it feels stable and well-balanced on the road. The bike also comes with a fuel tank capacity of 11.5 liters, providing a commendable riding range for long-distance commuting.

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Key Specifications

Power and Performance

The Pulsar 125’s 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine is designed to offer a balance of power and fuel efficiency. Here are some key performance specs:

• Engine Capacity: 124.4 cc
• Max Power: 11.64 bhp at 8,500 rpm
• Max Torque: 10.8 Nm at 6,500 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual
• Top Speed: 100 kmph
• Mileage: 50 kmpl (reported by owners)

The bike uses a carburetor fuel delivery system and features a wet multi-plate clutch. It also meets the BS6 Phase 2 emission standards, ensuring lower emissions and better fuel efficiency. The Pulsar 125 is not designed with riding modes, but its power delivery is smooth and consistent across all gears, making it suitable for city rides and occasional highway trips.

Design and Variants

The Pulsar 125 shares its design language with the larger Pulsar 150, offering a sporty and muscular look. The motorcycle is available in five variants, with slight differences in features:

1. Pulsar 125 Disc: Comes with a front disc brake.
2. Pulsar 125 Disc Split Seat: Features a split seat for a sportier appearance.
3. Pulsar 125 Carbon Single Seat: Incorporates carbon-fiber graphics.
4. Pulsar 125 Carbon Single Seat – Bluetooth: Comes with Bluetooth connectivity.
5. Pulsar 125 Carbon Split Seat: The most premium variant with split seat and carbon graphics.
6. Pulsar 125 Carbon Split Seat – Bluetooth: Combines all the top features including Bluetooth.

Color Options and Graphics

The Pulsar 125 offers up to 25 color options, allowing riders to choose their preferred style. The Carbon edition adds a touch of sportiness with carbon-fiber graphics on the belly pan, front fender, tank, and rear cowl. These details enhance the bike’s visual appeal and give it a distinct, aggressive stance.

Features and Technology

Instrument Console

The Pulsar 125 is equipped with a semi-digital instrument console that displays a variety of information, including speed, fuel level, trip meter readings, and a service reminder. Some variants also come with Bluetooth connectivity, enabling riders to receive call and SMS alerts directly on the display.

Safety and Braking

The braking system on the Pulsar 125 consists of a 240mm disc at the front and a 130mm drum at the rear. It is equipped with a Combined Braking System (CBS), which ensures balanced braking by distributing braking force between the front and rear wheels. This helps in reducing stopping distance and enhances safety, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces.

Suspension and Ride Quality

The bike features telescopic front forks and twin gas-charged rear shock absorbers, which provide a comfortable ride on various road conditions. The suspension setup is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, making it suitable for city commuting and occasional longer rides.

Dimensions and Weight

• Kerb Weight: 140 kg
• Seat Height: 790 mm
• Ground Clearance: 165 mm
• Wheelbase: 1320 mm
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.5 liters

The Pulsar 125’s weight distribution and ground clearance make it easy to maneuver in traffic and stable on highways. The seat height of 790 mm is accessible for most riders, while the 11.5-liter fuel tank offers a riding range of approximately 575 km, making it suitable for long-distance travel without frequent refueling.

Price and Warranty

The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is competitively priced across its variants, making it one of the most affordable bikes in the 125cc category:

• Pulsar 125 Disc: ₹85,861 (Ex-showroom)
• Pulsar 125 Disc Split Seat: ₹90,600
• Pulsar 125 Carbon Single Seat: ₹91,446
• Pulsar 125 Carbon Single Seat – Bluetooth: ₹93,011
• Pulsar 125 Carbon Split Seat: ₹95,613
• Pulsar 125 Carbon Split Seat – Bluetooth: ₹95,969

Bajaj offers a standard warranty of five years or 75,000 km, ensuring peace of mind for buyers. The bike’s maintenance schedule is also rider-friendly, with the first service due between 500-750 km or 30-45 days.

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Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Affordable Pricing: Competitive pricing makes the Pulsar 125 accessible to a wide range of buyers.
2. Sporty Design: Retains the iconic Pulsar design, appealing to young riders.
3. Comfortable Ride Quality: Balanced suspension setup ensures a comfortable ride in various conditions.
4. Safety Features: Combined Braking System (CBS) enhances safety.

Cons

1. Lack of Advanced Features: No riding modes, traction control, or other high-end features.
2. Basic Instrument Console: The semi-digital console lacks advanced functionalities like GPS or navigation.
3. Rear Brake Performance: Drum brake at the rear may not offer the same stopping power as a disc brake.

Verdict

The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is a versatile motorcycle that caters to both novice and experienced riders looking for a daily commuter with some sporty flair. While it may not boast high-end features, its value-for-money proposition, combined with a powerful 125cc engine and iconic Pulsar styling, makes it a strong contender in the entry-level motorcycle market. Its multiple variants allow customers to choose according to their needs and budget, ensuring that there’s a Pulsar 125 for everyone.