Bajaj Pulsar NS 125

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

In terms of features, the Pulsar NS125 does not bring anything revolutionary to the table. The part-analogue, part-digital instrument cluster is carried over from the NS160 and NS200, displaying basic information like speed, fuel level, and odometer readings. Unfortunately, there's no modern gadgetry like Bluetooth connectivity or navigation assist, which could have made the bike more appealing to tech-savvy younger buyers.

One highlight is the combined braking system (CBS), which ensures that both brakes are applied evenly for better control during emergency stops. However, the lack of ABS, even as an option, feels like a missed opportunity.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 performs reasonably well. Despite its sporty intentions, it manages to deliver around 50 kmpl under normal riding conditions. This makes it a fuel-efficient option for daily commuters who want the excitement of a sporty ride without sacrificing economy​

The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is priced at ₹93,690, which places it in the premium category of the 125cc segment. While it's significantly cheaper than the KTM 125 Duke, it's more expensive than other 125cc commuter bikes like the Honda SP 125 or even Bajaj's own Pulsar 125. However, the NS125 justifies its higher price with superior performance, sporty design, and robust build quality. For young riders who want to experience sport biking without jumping into higher displacement bikes, the NS125 offers a compelling value proposition​

Bajaj Auto has an extensive dealership and service network across India, which makes owning a Pulsar NS125 a hassle-free experience. The spare parts are readily available, and the servicing costs are relatively affordable. Bajaj’s reputation for providing low maintenance motorcycles further adds to the NS125's appeal. Furthermore, the bike comes with a 5-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind for the buyers.

The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 faces stiff competition from several 125cc motorcycles. Its closest rival is the KTM 125 Duke, which offers better technology and performance but at a significantly higher price. In terms of pricing, it competes with the Honda SP 125, Hero Glamour, and TVS Raider. However, none of these bikes match the sporty character and performance of the NS125​(Bajaj Pulsar NS125). Where the Pulsar NS125 stands out is its aggressive styling, perimeter frame, and overall road presence, making it a unique offering in the 125cc segment.

The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is an excellent entry-level sport bike for young riders who want performance without breaking the bank. It offers class-leading power, sporty handling, and a robust build, all packed into an aggressive design. However, the absence of ABS and lack of modern tech features like Bluetooth connectivity might deter some buyers who are looking for a more feature-rich experience.

Despite these minor shortcomings, the Pulsar NS125 manages to carve a niche for itself by offering a thrilling ride experience at an affordable price point. Whether you are a city commuter or a weekend rider, the NS125 promises to deliver excitement with every ride. With Bajaj's extensive service network and affordable maintenance costs, the Pulsar NS125 is a well-rounded package that offers great value for money.

In conclusion, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 excels as a performance-oriented bike in the 125cc segment. Its sporty dynamics, combined with decent fuel efficiency and a relatively affordable price tag, make it a compelling choice for young enthusiasts looking to experience sport biking without stepping up to the higher displacement models.