Published at February 24, 2023 by BikeJunction
Bajaj made a bold move by introducing a new 150cc bike while still keeping the "original" Bajaj Pulsar 150 in the market. It's worth noting that the Bajaj Pulsar P150 is an entirely new model developed from scratch. However, the question remains whether it can evoke the same "Pulsar Mania" as the original bike. Let's explore this further.
The Pulsar P150's engine showcases impressive smoothness even when travelling at low speeds within city limits. Upon starting the engine, you'll immediately notice its composed demeanour, emitting a gentle hum while accelerating or navigating through traffic.
This may lead you to believe that you're operating a motorcycle with a smaller engine size. However, it's worth noting that reaching a speed of 85 km/h or higher requires frequent throttle adjustment and gear changes, which will become more apparent with experience.
Deft handling
The Bajaj Pulsar P150, weighing 140 kg, is not considered a typically heavy motorcycle, as its agility is evident even at slow speeds. It can easily move and pass in tight spaces with the rider's feet resting on the footpegs, making it effortless to navigate through traffic. Additionally, riders with moderate skills can make mid-corner corrections, even on slightly uneven terrain, with some practice.
The single-disc variant is lighter and thus able to accelerate faster than the twin-disc variant. Furthermore, it also benefits from its thinner tires, which provide less rolling resistance. It results in enabling it to travel further on each litre of fuel.
The Pulsar P150 single disc has footpegs that are slightly closer towards the front end. Further, a slightly higher one-piece handlebar, which results in a more upright riding position compared to the sportier twin disc version.
However, the single-piece seat and well-designed tank recesses allow for adequate movement of your lower body, unlike the previous Pulsar 150 model with a bulky tank. This combination of features results in a rider's triangle that strikes a good balance between sportiness and everyday usability. As a result, among the various 150 and 160 cc Pulsar models, the Pulsar P150 is the most comfortable one to ride.
The Pulsar P150 has a great set of advantages, with the final one being its reliable braking performance. The brakes exhibit consistent strength without any initial sponginess, as we observed on the Pulsar N160.
Additionally, the brakes don't feel overly sharp, so using the customary two fingers on the lever in most traffic situations is tension-free. Furthermore, the front disc brakes and rear drum brakes have a gradual increase in braking power, which makes it easy to calculate braking distances on unfamiliar terrain or during rainy weather.
The Bajaj Pulsar P150 performs excellently on the streets within the city limits, but it is not a pleasant experience when ridden on open roads. Once you exceed 85 km/h, or specifically, above 8000-8500 rpm, the slight buzz that was previously insignificant becomes an annoying vibration. The vibration originates from the tank and footpegs and spreads to the handlebar and seat as you increase the throttle.
Additionally, the engine noise sounds rough and rattly, which reduces the excitement of riding the bike. Moreover, the bike's speed decreases significantly beyond 90 km/h, which makes it necessary to downshift when overtaking or keeping up with faster bikes on weekend rides. However, downshifting intensifies the vibration, creating a vicious cycle of discomfort.
Although the Pulsar P150 comes equipped with a projector headlight that appears to provide sufficient illumination in theory but it falls short in practice. The high beam offers limited coverage and distance, giving the impression of being comically underpowered.
Moreover, a noticeable blue-green hue along the edges of the light adds a low-quality, aftermarket appearance. This contrasts with the bike's otherwise sturdy construction and well-crafted switchgear, emphasising the inadequate headlight's inadequacy.
Despite its neutral and responsive handling, we didn't anticipate the Pulsar P150 to provide an entirely comfortable ride. While the suspension system can handle minor bumps smoothly, more severe potholes or speed breakers can cause a slight jolt from the rear suspension.
Although the P150 has better suspension quality than the Pulsar N160, the slightly upright riding position can put a little extra strain on the rider's and passenger's backs, which is not ideal for a bike intended for commuting purposes.
The Pulsar P150 Single Disc variant is priced at Rs 1,16,755 (ex-showroom, Delhi), which is the same as the original Pulsar 150. However, if you spend an additional Rs 3000, you can get the twin-seat, twin-disc variant which offers better ergonomics and more powerful brakes. If you want a sportier option, you can opt for the Bajaj Pulsar N160 for an extra Rs 3,000.
However, these sportier options may not be suitable for those who are looking for a reliable everyday ride. Despite a few drawbacks, the Pulsar P150 still delivers on most of its promises and is a great option for those who want a premium commuter bike without the idiosyncrasies of the original Pulsar. So, if you're looking for a dependable everyday ride and want to experience the famous Pulsar brand, the Pulsar P150 is a good buy.
Interested in reading - Pulsar P150 vs TVS Apache RTR 160: Comparison Test and Review
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