Bajaj Pulsar 125 vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125? Which 125cc Pulsar Packs More Punch

On paper, the Pulsar NS125 does seem to be the sportier of the two 

• The NS125 gets styling cues from the bigger NS bikes like the NS160 and the NS200
• In our road test review, we thought the NS125 was among the best 125cc bikes of India
• As for the Pulsar 125, it’s styled like the bigger Pulsars, like the Pulsar 180 and the Pulsar 200

As the motorcycle landscape evolves, 125cc bikes have emerged as the new entry-level class, surpassing the traditional 100cc segment, particularly with the rise of models like the Bajaj Pulsars. In this comparison, we pit two formidable contenders against each other: the Bajaj Pulsar 125 and the Bajaj Pulsar NS125, to determine which offers a more thrilling ride and packs a greater punch.

Bajaj Pulsar 125 vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Designs

Taking a glance at our archives from 2012, one would find a review of the NS200, revealing that much of what we see in the NS125's design remains unchanged. The NS125 closely resembles its larger counterpart, the NS200, with minor differentiators such as a smaller engine, slimmer tires, a more slender swingarm, and distinct graphics.

The Pulsar 125 Neon stands as a testament to timelessness, retaining its familiar silhouette virtually unchanged over the years. The neon accents and absence of certain body panels, reminiscent of the Pulsar 150 Neon, distinguish this iteration. 

Bajaj Pulsar 125 vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Engines

On paper, the NS125's engine appears rather conventional. It's a four-valve air-cooled unit, a rarity in the BS6 era for its absence of fuel injection. Instead, Bajaj employs its proprietary e-carb technology. Despite its basic specifications, the engine delivers a respectable output of 12hp at 8,500rpm and 11Nm at 7,000rpm, slightly surpassing the regular Pulsar 125. In real-world conditions, the NS125 feels adequately lively.

While the engine mirrors that of its 150cc siblings, Bajaj opted for a slight reduction in cubic capacity by altering the stroke length to just under 125cc. This adjustment preserves the engine's linear power delivery, reminiscent of the Pulsar 150, albeit with a marginally lower top-end performance. The motor exhibits minimal strain even at higher revs, a rarity in this segment. Although its speedometer registered a commendable 107 kph, there's a hint of untapped potential, peaking around the 110kph mark. Notably, the sub-125cc configuration exempts the Pulsar 125 from requiring an ABS system, contributing to cost-effectiveness.

Bajaj Pulsar 125 vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Suspension, Tyres & Brakes

While the NS125 may lack some headline-grabbing features, its competent underpinnings compensate for any deficiencies. Priced under Rs 1 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), Bajaj outfits the NS125 with quality components like a perimeter frame and a preload-adjustable monoshock, mirroring larger NS models. As a result, the bike offers agile handling, making it enjoyable to manoeuvre through corners. The narrow tires contribute to its nimble feel, especially compared to the NS200.

Bajaj Pulsar 125 vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Dimensions

Sharing its platform with the NS200, the NS125 inherits generous proportions suitable for a diverse range of riders. Its lengthy 1,353mm wheelbase surpasses even the Pulsar 150, offering ample space for taller riders. The rider's triangle provides a comfortable seating position, with well-positioned handlebars and adequate seat-to-footpeg distance. Although the seat may become uncomfortable on longer rides, the NS125's balanced chassis minimises the impact of its 144kg weight.

Bajaj Pulsar 125 vs Bajaj Pulsar NS125: Price

The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is available in a single variant priced at Rs 1,06,355 (ex-showroom, Delhi) and is offered in four vibrant colours: Fiery Orange, Burnt Red, Beach Blue, and Pewter Grey.

Verdict 

The NS125's competitive price tag of Rs 1,06,355 (ex-showroom, Delhi) positions it similarly to the Pulsar 150 Neon. While it commands a premium over the standard Pulsar 125, it remains significantly more affordable than the KTM 125 Duke. Despite its higher cost, the NS125 delivers a distinctive experience within the 125cc segment, characterised by Pulsar's signature performance and modern design. With superior dynamics compared to its counterparts, the NS125 strikes a balance between affordability and innovation, expanding Bajaj's presence in the 125cc market.

The Pulsar 125 achieves its objectives admirably. Positioned as the most potent and arguably the sportiest option in the 125cc category, it competes favourably against rivals like the Honda CB Shine SP and Hero Glamour, all while maintaining a competitive price point comparable to its peers.