Bajaj Pulsar N150 Review: Friendly &Sweet Pulsar
Reviews by Team Drivio | 14 Oct 2023
The N150 has the same 150cc engine as the Pulsar P150
- Its 150cc air-cooled engine makes a decent 14.5PS and 13.5Nm
- Tipping the scales at 145kg, the N150 is 5kg more than the N150
- In terms of design though, the N150 looks like the N160 and the N250
Rebranding isn't a novel concept, particularly in the motorcycle industry. Bajaj Auto, a well-known brand, is no stranger to this practice, having employed it with models such as the Pulsar NS200, NS160, Dominar 400, and Dominar 250 for quite some time. With the introduction of the N150, which appears to be a rebranded version of the Pulsar P150, we took it for a spin to determine whether these suspicions hold true.
Bajaj Pulsar N150: Design & Features
The Bajaj Pulsar N150 boasts an eye-catching design and a range of impressive features. Its infinity-style semi-digital instrument cluster, akin to the Pulsar 250s, is a standout feature. This cluster includes a gear position indicator, instantaneous fuel efficiency data, and distance-to-empty indicators, enhancing the rider's experience.
While the instrument cluster is visually appealing, it's worth noting that the visor over the headlight somewhat obscures the infinity effect. However, this minor setback is compensated for by the conveniently located USB charger. What truly sets the N150 apart in this segment is its LED projector headlight, a pioneering feature.
Bajaj Pulsar N150: Engine &Specs
Specifications | Bajaj Pulsar N150 |
Engine | 149.68cc air-cooled engine |
Maximum power | 14.5PS @ 8500 rpm |
Maximum torque | 13.5Nm @ 6000 rpm |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Under the hood, the N150 is powered by a 150cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine. Notably, this engine draws its lineage from the Pulsar N160, with some modifications to match the bore x stroke figures of the previous generation Pulsar 150. While it may not be the most potent motor in its class, delivering 14.5PS and 13.5Nm of torque, its strength lies in its torque delivery. Approximately 95% of peak torque is accessible in the range between 3500 and 8500rpm.
This torque-friendly design allows the N150 to accelerate smoothly from speeds as low as 25kmph even in fifth gear. In urban traffic, it's entirely possible to stay in fifth gear most of the time. Shifting gears, when required, is effortless thanks to the smooth gearbox and a light clutch. While it excels in city commuting, it's not as impressive on the highway, where engine noise becomes noticeable at higher speeds.
Bajaj Pulsar N150: Chassis
Specifications | Bajaj Pulsar N150 |
Front suspension | Telescopic fork |
Rear suspension | Monoshock |
Front tyre | 90/90 - 17 |
Rear tyre | 120/80 - 17 |
Front brake | 260mm disc brake |
Rear brake | 130mm drum brake |
ABS | Single-channel |
One of the N150's strong points is its lightweight design, which significantly benefits its handling. Despite having a 1352mm wheelbase, not particularly short for its class, the N150 feels exceptionally nimble when maneuvering through congested city streets or tackling corners.
Its soft suspension setup, though, makes it less of a cornering enthusiast's dream. Nevertheless, it compensates by adeptly absorbing mid-corner bumps, ensuring a comfortable ride overall.
Bajaj Pulsar N150: Dimensions
Dimensions | Bajaj Pulsar N150 |
Wheelbase | 1352mm |
Seat height | 790mm |
Ground clearance | 165mm |
Kerb weight | 145kg |
Fuel tank capacity | 14-litres |
The N150 introduces a new frame, distinguishing itself from the N160 and other Pulsar models. At 145kg though, the N150 is 5kg heavier than the P150 and you do feel that weight especially when hustling the bike from one corner to the other.
Bajaj Pulsar N150: Variants & Price
Bajaj Pulsar N150 Variant | Price (ex-showroom Delhi) |
Bajaj Pulsar N150 | Rs 1,17,734 |
In terms of variants and pricing, the N150 presents a significant leap forward from its predecessor. The Single Disc variant is priced at Rs 1,16,755, while the Twin Disc variant is available for Rs 1,19,757. Importantly, these prices are only about Rs 5,500 higher than the corresponding Pulsar 150 variants. This makes the N150 a strong value proposition in its segment.
Conclusion
With its price, the N150 is a good Rs 13,000 less expensive than the N160. While the N160 is undoubtedly the better bike, where the N150 really shines is with its affordability quotient. The bike has been priced very very well. So if you’re someone who is quite budget conscious, the N150 does make quite a lot of sense for someone like you.
What bugged us though, was the fact that the bike is heavier than the P150 despite packing lesser equipment. We wish Bajaj had given a disc brake at the rear, at least as an optional accessory. That would have also facilitated the brand to provide the bike with dual-channel ABS, something that’s always a boon on our roads. But if you’re okay with these two compromises, the N150 is a likable motorcycle.
In conclusion, the Bajaj Pulsar N150 impresses with its design, torque-friendly engine, lightweight chassis, and competitive pricing. While it may not cater to the most performance-focused riders, it excels as a stylish and practical choice for urban commuters and budget-conscious enthusiasts.