Updated Pulsar NS range improves competencies against rivals and allows enthusiasts to unlock new possibilities
One of the popular Pulsar motorcycles, the NS range now comes with USD forks and dual-channel ABS. It also gets lighter rims and a semi digital console with gear position indicator and DTE. The updated units have started arriving at dealerships. With the new features, prices have also been hiked.
2023 Bajaj Pulsar NS160 and NS200 Prices
Before the latest upgrade, NS160 was priced at Rs 1.25 lakh, whereas NS200 was available at Rs 1.41 lakh. Now, with these new upgrades, NS160 is priced at Rs 1.35 lakh while the NS200 is priced at Rs 1.41 lakh, ex-sh. Plus, the engines have been updated to comply with the stricter BS6 Phase II emission norms. Apart from the new equipment, there are no other major updates to either bike.
New Pulsar NS200 will target primary rival TVS Apache RTR 200 4V that has conventional telescopic front forks. However, RTR 200 4V has options of both single and dual-channel ABS. Another rival is Honda Hornet 2.0 that has USD forks, but lacks dual-channel ABS. It is apparent that updated Bajaj Pulsar NS200 now comes across as a more value-for-money proposition.
Updated Pulsar NS160 will have similar advantages against rivals like TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Hero Xtreme 160R. However, there’s scope for more improvements in areas such as connectivity. While TVS was among the first to introduce a dedicated connectivity platform for its smaller capacity bikes, Hero MotoCorp is following the same strategy. Updated Pulsar NS motorcycles are equipped with a semi-digital instrument console.
After introduction of USD forks and dual-channel ABS, users can expect improved ride dynamics with Pulsar NS200 and NS160. Enthusiasts can achieve higher speeds without worrying about things like the bike skidding or not coming to a halt within the targeted distance. The benefits will be available across city streets as well as highways.
Bajaj already offers USD forks with its NS motorcycles in Brazil. NS200 has 33mm USD, whereas NS160 has 31mm USD forks. The same configuration is used for India. Apart from the enhanced muscular profile made possible with the USD forks, there are no other major cosmetic changes. Only some of the graphics have been updated with new colour combinations.
Updated Pulsar NS range performance
While ride dynamics have been improved with USD forks and dual-channel ABS, the engines are the same as earlier. Power and torque output is the same, even after compliance with BS6 Phase II emission norms.
Bajaj Pulsar NS200 is powered by a 199.5cc, liquid cooled, SOHC 4-valve engine that churns out 24.5 PS of max power and 18.74 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The smaller sibling NS160 has a 160.3 cc motor that makes 17.2 PS and 14.6 Nm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
Source
Source: Bike - rushlane.com
