Bajaj Auto, a major two-wheeler manufacturer in the country, has updated its classic Pulsar lineup by releasing the new generation Bajaj Pulsar 150 in the domestic market. The update covers not only the appearance and equipment but also significant changes to the engine, suspension, braking system, and integrated technologies.
The starting price for this new model is set at ₹1.15 lakh without taxes in Delhi, while the most expensive configuration reaches ₹1.23 lakh. A comparison with the previous model has been presented to show how much the motorcycle has changed.
The new Pulsar 150 is available in several variants. The base model is equipped with a single-disc system and a single-person seat, along with an LCD digital display. Its cost is ₹1.15 lakh. The most expensive option offers a TFT display and connected features along with a dual seat, priced at ₹1.23 lakh (excluding taxes).
The new Pulsar 150 uses a 149.5 cc engine, but changes have been made to its performance characteristics. This engine now generates 14 hp and 14.1 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. Although older Pulsars also produced 14 hp, this power was achieved at 8500 rpm. The old model's torque was 13.25 Nm, which was slightly less than that of the new version. Thus, the power remained the same, but the torque increased, and the maximum power is now reached at lower engine speeds.
In terms of technology, the new Pulsar 150 has also received a substantial upgrade. Depending on the configuration, the motorcycle is equipped with either a 4.8-inch full-numeric LCD display or a 5-inch TFT screen. The versions with TFT feature Bluetooth connectivity and step-by-step navigation. The top-of-the-line model also includes features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, Google Maps integration, and screen mirroring. Thanks to these improvements, the new Pulsar 150 has become significantly more modern and connected compared to the old model.
Bajaj has also updated the charging port in this new generation of the Pulsar 150, replacing the USB Type-A port found in older models with a USB Type-C port. This makes the new model better suited for modern mobile phone charging needs.
Important modifications have been made to the chassis and suspension system of the new Pulsar 150. It features a telescopic fork with a 33 mm diameter and 125 mm travel at the front, whereas the old model used forks with a 31 mm diameter and 135 mm travel. The most noticeable change occurred in the rear suspension: instead of twin shock absorbers, a monoshock absorber is now used. The rear suspension travel is 110 mm, compared to 102 mm in the old model. This means the new Pulsar will provide a more comfortable ride on uneven roads.
The braking system of the new Pulsar 150 has also been modernized. In the single-disc setup, a 260 mm disc is installed at the front, and a 130 mm drum brake is used at the rear. In the dual-disc variant, a 260 mm disc is installed at the front, and a 230 mm disc brake is used at the rear. The motorcycle is equipped with a single-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which ensures balanced braking even at high speeds.
Regarding features, the new Pulsar 150 is equipped with a Class B LED headlight with additional LED indicators and rear LEDs. The indicators on this generation of the motorcycle have also become LED, unlike the bulb indicators in older models. The motorcycle is presented in both a single-seat configuration and a dual-seat configuration. Depending on the configuration, features such as a bumper, hazard lights, and a double horn are available.
Furthermore, the new Pulsar 150 provides both an electric starter and kick-start capability. Bajaj has also added various riding modes, including the MTB mode. Overall, the company has updated not only the engine but also the suspension, braking system, display, and connected features, making this model significantly better than the previous one.