2015 Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 review, test ride

Telescopic fork suspension is in place at the front with a Nitrox-charged monoshock at rear. This ride being solely at a smooth surfaced test track, we’re unable to comment on ride quality. The RS 200's riding position feels a touch sporty, still upright and relatively comfy versus the aggressive KTM RC bikes. Handling is taut, the RS 200 feeling really confident on track. The RS 200 has a shorter wheelbase compared to its NS sibling, with rake having become more aggressive in the front, which helps the bike turn in effortlessly and corner well, perhaps only a smidgen behind the razor-quick edge of the more focussed RCs. Confident enough to hold its own at the track, the RS 200 offers improved compound MRF tyres, these providing excellent grip, so long as not compared with the RC’s terrific Metzelers. Grip was adequate to allow us to run the bike right onto the edge of the tyres through fast corners. 

 

There’s a petal type single rotor 300mm disc brake in front and 230mm disc at the rear, the RS 200 being the first Pulsar to offer ABS, a Bosch-made single channel system that you can’t switch off, and works to keep the front end lock free under emergency braking. The brakes and ABS system worked well during our test ride, with good feel at the levers, progressive with ample stopping power.

 

The RS 200 is available in red and yellow, priced at Rs 1.18 lakh and Rs 1.30 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) with ABS. Racy and perhaps just a shade too flashy looking, the RS 200, as expected, isn't as aggressive and uncomfortable for daily use as a KTM RC200. Looking for a sporty bike with the presence of a full-fairing, that’s good to go on Indian city roads as well? The RS 200 makes a well rounded package that ticks almost all the right boxes.