The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 has been around for 14 years, and it continues to be a popular motorcycle in its segment. The updated Pulsar NS200 retains its familiar styling, with sharp bodywork, a muscular fuel tank and an aggressive stance. Bajaj has introduced a new colour option, but the overall design remains unchanged.
The biggest upgrades are in the electronics package. The NS200 now gets an electronic throttle body, five riding modes, a quickshifter and traction control. It also receives a TFT instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity and navigation, similar to the one seen on the newer Classic Pulsar models. Adjustable brake and clutch levers are another welcome addition.
The NS200 continues to use its 199.5cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, which produces 25.5hp at 10,250rpm and 18.7Nm at 8,000rpm. This makes it just 1hp more powerful than the current model on sale.
The new electronic throttle body allows the motorcycle to offer five riding modes including Sport, Road, Rain, Off-road and Touring. These modes alter the throttle response to suit different riding conditions. Sport mode delivers the full performance of the engine, and this is where I found myself spending most of my time. Road mode slightly softens the power delivery, making it better suited to stop-and-go traffic. Rain mode feels noticeably more restrained, offering a safer riding experience in slippery conditions.
However, changing modes on the go is a slightly complicated process. You need to be travelling below 30kph, long-press the up button, cycle through the modes using the down button and then press the right button to select one. A dedicated riding mode button would have been ideal.
The other main upgrades include a bi-directional quickshifter and a traction control system. The quickshifter works well and you can make smooth gear changes without requiring the clutch. But, when riding in traffic, keeping your foot on the gear lever can unintentionally cut power. This is something to watch out for. The traction control system also works well, but it can be intrusive when riding over bad roads or speed breakers at a quicker pace. It sometimes takes longer than expected to restore power after intervening. Thankfully, both systems can be switched off.
The handling remains unchanged, and the NS200 continues to feel nimble and predictable. The only change is the addition of a radial rear tyre, but on the road, you are unlikely to feel a significant difference compared to the previous motorcycle. It is an enjoyable motorcycle on twisty roads, with the tyres offering adequate grip for the amount of power it delivers.
What community is saying on the Pulsar NS200?
The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 UG is a welcome upgrade to a motorcycle that has been around for 14 years. The addition of riding modes, traction control, a quickshifter and a TFT display makes it considerably more modern.
At Rs 1.60 lakh (ex-showroom), it is around Rs 12,000 more expensive than the previous top-spec USD variant. Bajaj tells us that the older variants, priced at Rs 1.38 lakh and Rs 1.48 lakh, will remain on sale until stocks last.
While the additional features justify some of the price increase, it would have been nice if Bajaj continued to offer the older variants for buyers who do not want all the new tech. Nevertheless, the NS200 remains a potent and enjoyable motorcycle, and it is good to see Bajaj continuing to update it after 14 years.
Rishaad Mody
Dinshaw Magol
