The 125cc motorcycle segment in India has seen consistent growth, driven by the demand for bikes that offer the right mix of performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability. One standout in this category is the Bajaj Pulsar NS125, a motorcycle that brings the sporty DNA of the Pulsar family to a more accessible price point. Designed for young riders and daily commuters, the NS125 offers a premium riding experience without stretching the budget. This article provides a detailed look at the Bajaj Pulsar NS125, its features, performance, and why it is considered a top choice in its segment.
Sporty Design Inspired by Bigger Pulsars
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 carries the aggressive styling cues of its larger siblings, the Pulsar NS160 and NS200. Its sharp and muscular design language includes:
- Bold fuel tank with sporty extensions
- Twin-strip LED tail lamps
- Underbelly exhaust for mass centralization
- Split grab rails
- Perimeter frame for enhanced stability
The bike’s aggressive stance and modern graphics appeal to younger buyers looking for a stylish motorcycle that stands out on the road.
Engine and Performance
Under the tank, the Pulsar NS125 is powered by a 124.45cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. It produces a maximum power of 12 PS at 8,500 rpm and 11 Nm of peak torque at 7,000 rpm, offering lively performance ideal for urban commuting and occasional highway rides (Source: Bajaj Auto).
Key performance highlights include:
- Smooth power delivery for city traffic conditions
- 5-speed gearbox offering crisp gear shifts
- Top speed of approximately 105 km/h, making it one of the fastest bikes in the 125cc segment
The engine features Bajaj’s patented DTS-i technology, which ensures better combustion efficiency, leading to improved performance and fuel economy.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
One of the most crucial factors for Indian motorcycle buyers is fuel efficiency. The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 does not disappoint, delivering a real-world mileage of approximately 46.9 kmpl. This makes it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting, balancing performance with low running costs.
The bike’s 12-litre fuel tank ensures fewer stops at the fuel station, offering an excellent riding range suitable for long commutes.
Features and Technology
The Pulsar NS125 comes equipped with several modern features aimed at enhancing convenience and safety. These include:
- Semi-digital instrument cluster providing essential information like speed, odometer, fuel gauge, and trip meter
- LED tail lamps for better visibility
- USB mobile charging port (in the latest variants)
- Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and call alerts (available in the updated model)
Safety is further enhanced with the introduction of CBS (Combined Braking System), ensuring effective braking by distributing braking force between the front and rear wheels.
In 2024, Bajaj also introduced a fully digital console and single-channel ABS variant for the NS125, making it even more competitive in its segment.
Ride Quality and Comfort
The Pulsar NS125 is designed to offer a comfortable ride for both rider and pillion. It features:
- Telescopic front forks and a monoshock rear suspension, tuned for city riding conditions
- Perimeter frame that ensures better rigidity and stability
- Comfortable seat cushioning suited for longer commutes
- Low kerb weight of around 144 kg, making the bike easy to maneuver in traffic
While the ride quality is generally comfortable, some users have noted that the rear suspension can feel a bit stiff over rough surfaces.
Braking and Safety
In terms of braking, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 comes with:
- 240 mm front disc brake
- 130 mm rear drum brake
- CBS technology as standard
- Single-channel ABS in the higher variant
These features ensure strong and confident braking performance, essential for urban and highway rides.
Pricing and Variants
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is priced competitively, targeting buyers who want a sporty and feature-rich motorcycle without a hefty price tag. The ex-showroom price of the Pulsar NS125 in India typically starts from around ₹1 lakh, varying slightly based on the city and variant.
Given its price positioning, the Pulsar NS125 offers exceptional value compared to other options in the 125cc segment.
Competitors in the Segment
In the 125cc sporty commuter segment, the Pulsar NS125 competes with models like:
- TVS Raider 125
- Honda SP 125
- Hero Glamour Xtec
While all these motorcycles offer a combination of style and efficiency, the NS125 stands out due to its aggressive styling, perimeter frame, and better high-speed stability.
Pros and Cons of Bajaj Pulsar NS125
Pros:
- Aggressive and sporty design
- Good performance for the segment
- Impressive fuel efficiency
- Feature-rich with modern updates
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Slightly stiff rear suspension
- Lacks rear disc brake option in base variant
Conclusion
The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 successfully brings the Pulsar brand’s sporty essence into the 125cc segment. With its aggressive styling, peppy performance, and modern features, it appeals to young riders as well as working professionals seeking a reliable and stylish daily commuter. The bike’s balance between performance, efficiency, and pricing makes it a strong contender for anyone looking for a sporty commuter motorcycle under ₹1 lakh.
As the demand for stylish and efficient commuter bikes grows, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 continues to stand out as a smart and value-for-money choice in the Indian two-wheeler market.