The design of the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is rooted in its bigger siblings, the NS160 and NS200. While the bike is all-new in terms of engine capacity, the design carries the same muscular and chiseled styling that was first seen in the NS200 nearly a decade ago. The “wolf-eyed” headlamp cluster with twin pilot lamps remains unchanged, and the only LED element is the tail lamp. Bajaj has retained the part-analogue, part-digital speedometer, which has a retro charm but may feel slightly dated for those expecting more modern aesthetics​.

However, Bajaj has attempted to keep the NS125 fresh by offering it in new color schemes that add vibrancy to its appearance. Despite these updates, the overall design feels a little too familiar. While the muscular and sporty stance gives the NS125 a road presence, a slight refresh in the design could have been a good move to keep it in line with modern motorcycle trends

Powered by a 124.45 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled DTSi engine, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is a class leader in terms of performance. The engine produces 11.82 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 11 Nm of peak torque at 7,000 rpm, making it one of the most powerful bikes in the 125cc segment, second only to the KTM 125 Duke​. The 5-speed gearbox complements the engine well, providing smooth and efficient power delivery across various riding conditions.

The engine, despite its smaller displacement, is a downsized version of the 160cc powerplant seen in the NS160. This makes it peppy enough for city rides while also providing enough grunt for occasional highway cruising. However, the bike's kerb weight of 144 kg is relatively heavy for a 125cc motorcycle, which may marginally affect its agility, especially in tight urban traffic.

The Pulsar NS125's perimeter frame, which it shares with the NS160 and NS200, offers high stiffness and low flex, making it a sharp handler​. The chassis allows for excellent control, especially in cornering situations, giving the rider confidence to push the bike. The telescopic front forks and Nitrox monoshock at the rear ensure that the ride remains stable, even over rough surfaces. While the handling is undoubtedly one of the best in its class, the absence of ABS might be a dealbreaker for safety-conscious riders. The bike comes with a 240 mm front disc brake and a 130 mm rear drum brake, along with a combined braking system (CBS)​.

In terms of comfort, the Pulsar NS125 strikes a decent balance between sportiness and practicality. The upright seating position, along with well-padded seats, ensures that the rider doesn't feel fatigued over long distances. The slightly rear-set footpegs and well-placed handlebars provide a sporty yet comfortable stance for both city commuting and highway rides.

The suspension setup, which includes telescopic front forks and a Nitrox monoshock at the rear, absorbs road undulations effectively, ensuring a smooth and stable ride. While it's not as cushy as a full-fledged commuter bike, it offers a good compromise for a sport-oriented motorcycle