INTRODUCTION:
The first thing that one can think of when Bajaj is mentioned is Pulsar. Even though Pulsar is just one of the many bike models of Bajaj, it has been associated with Bajaj and is more of a brand than just a bike model. Pulsar’s variation of variants in the market start from daily commuter bikes to sporty naked street bikes. Bajaj has always been a reigning bike brand in the two-wheeler market of Nepal. So, the first ever BS6 variant of Bajaj has now launched in Nepal. Pulsar NS125 aims to fill the gap between the street naked and commuter bikes. It lags in CC but Bajaj has not compromised in power, performance and efficiency. Bike’s striking graphics and design make this small yet feature packed bike filled with so many surprises.
BODY OVERVIEW:
This bike is advertised as the “flying machine” and to justify this phrase the bike’s design and structure help a lot. The first thing you see from a frontal view is the stylish-wolf eyed halogen headlamp. The bulb indicators and headlamp are specially designed aggressively so that it is different from any other 125cc bike. Its overall design really matches the NS 200 because of the same NS DNA it carries. The outward positioned mirrors, wide handlebars and riding position combined is proof that NS 125 is a bike with good handling capabilities. The muscular fuel tank, 3D pulsar logo all of it is inherited from the NS 200 series. Bajaj designed the NS 125 to look the same but performance wise excel at what it has. The instrument console is semi digital. Tachometer is fully analog whereas the digital meter showcases speedometer, fuel indicator, trip meter and other vital information. Unfortunately, an indication of the gear position cannot be seen anywhere.
The bike’s rear section exactly matches the older variants of the Pulsar NS200 series. The split seat arrangement, elevated pillion seat, and split grab handles are the highlights. Its tail lamp and rear indicators are LED. It would be better if the NS 125 could incorporate LED lights to its entire lighting system. Bajaj bike’s seating arrangements are known for providing comfort in every road condition. Entirety of NS 125’s body is inspired by a sharp sporty design.
SPECIFICATION AND PERFORMANCE:
We can witness a major change in Pulsar NS125’s engine and the power it exerts. It has a 124.45cc, 4-Stroke, SOHC 4-Valve, Air Cooled, BSVI Compliant DTS-i Ei Engine. Being Bajaj’s first ever BS6 compliance bike , we can expect more in terms of performance and efficiency. It generates a power of 8.82 kW @ 8500 rpm and a torque of 11 Nm @ 7000 rpm. Bajaj has heavily emphasized on the bike’s improved power and performance regardless of being a low cc bike. Due to the entry ignition, NS 125 has better engine efficiency than any other bike in the segment. Wet sump forced lubrication is used for engine lubrication that is of a simpler design than the others. This powerhouse with a 5 transmission speed gearbox box averages a top speed of almost 103.29 kmph. The massive 12 liter fuel tank capable of mileage provision of 60 kmpl in normal city rides and an average of 55 kmpl in highway rides. It can go from 0 to 60 km in just 6 seconds, which is actually a competitive factor even for 200CC and 250CC bikes.
DIMENSIONS:
In comparison to the NS 200 series, this bike's wheel size and dimensions are reduced by a few percent. The very new NS 125 has 17 inch tubeless tyres that measure 80/100 at the front tyres and 100/90 in the rear tyres. The tyre grip grids are still exactly the same as the NS200 series. Even though the overall dimensions are reduced, the ground clearance has been increased to 178mm and the wheelbase has been reduced to 1352mm. Incorporating all these features into one, the NS 125 wants to become the versatile fit for all. For the Front suspension we can see a telescopic front fork with anti-friction boost and the rear suspension is a nitrox monoshock absorber. This setting makes the NS125 provide comfort, safety and easy handling in every provided road condition. The Front brakes are 240mm disc brakes and the rear brakes are 130mm drum CBS brakes. Combined braking System in the NS125 enables combining and balancing the braking forces of both the front and rear brakes.
CONCLUSION:
In an overview, this bike would lie between a commuter bike and a naked street bike. Being Bajaj's first ever bike with a BS6 compliance, NS125 may seem to be simple and small but is rather strong, powerful and efficient. It may not possess the most technologically advanced features but has lived upto what its successor has left. The Pulsar NS125 is a direct competition to the TVS raider 125. The orange variant is a resonance of the KTM Duke design. If the bike could have incorporated Full LED lighting system, FI engine, digital console and other features it could have been unbeatable in its segment. Its market price is Rs. 2,79,900. A special dashain and tihar offer from the company implies a 25% down payment along with Rs. 7000 ko cash discount. It is available in colors Fiery Orange, Burnt Red, Beach Blue and Pewter Gray. Bajaj’s new addition to the NS series aims to target a completely new segment of buyers. Someone upgrading from a Pulsar commuter bike to a budget friendly naked street bike that is sporty looking, powerful and efficient, then buying this bike would definitely benefit.