In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian two-wheelers, a fresh contender has emerged to shake up the 125cc category. Bajaj Auto, a name synonymous with innovation and quality, has unveiled its latest offering – the Pulsar N125.
This new entrant in the Pulsar lineage is set to redefine expectations for entry-level sports commuters, blending style, performance, and affordability in a package that’s hard to ignore.
Unveiling a New Chapter
The Pulsar N125 marks Bajaj’s fourth venture into the 125cc space, following the CT 125X, Freedom 125, and the classic Pulsar 125. It’s the sixth model in the N series and the 14th in the current Pulsar lineup – a testament to Bajaj’s commitment to diversifying its portfolio.
Aimed squarely at first-time buyers and young students, the N125 is Bajaj’s answer to the growing appeal of competitors like the TVS Raider and Hero Xtreme 125R.
A Design That Turns Heads
At first glance, the Pulsar N125 is unmistakably a Pulsar, yet it carves out its own identity.
The front end sports a friendlier appearance compared to its N series siblings, featuring LED headlights that promise better visibility and a modern aesthetic. The halogen indicators, reminiscent of those on the recently launched Bajaj Freedom, add a touch of familiarity.
The bike’s profile is a study in contrasts – the lower half appears somewhat bare, while the angular top section catches the eye.
The standout feature is undoubtedly the tank shrouds, which echo the design of its larger siblings. These shrouds maintain the signature Pulsar shoulder line, giving the N125 a muscular appearance that belies its entry-level status.
Split seats add a sporty flair while providing ample space for both rider and pillion. The longer seat design, which slightly intrudes into the tank section, is a clever compromise between style and comfort.
At the rear, simplicity reigns supreme, with contrasting colored grab handles adding a pop of visual interest. The adjustable mono-shock rear suspension, painted in an eye-catching red, underscores the bike’s sporty credentials.
Bajaj offers the Pulsar N125 in a palette of seven colors across its variants, ensuring there’s a shade to suit every taste. From the classic Ebony Black to the bold Carribean Blue, the color options reflect the youthful energy this bike aims to capture.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the Pulsar N125 boasts a brand-new 124.58cc engine that’s not shared with any other Bajaj motorcycle.
This powerplant churns out an impressive 11.58 bhp (or 12 PS), making it the most potent in its segment. The torque figure stands at 11Nm, just a hair’s breadth behind the TVS Raider and slightly ahead of the Hero Xtreme 125R.
Bajaj claims this engine has a unique square bore-to-stroke ratio, which should translate to a balance of low-end grunt and high-end performance.
The Indian manufacturer also boasts of a fuel economy of 60 kmpl, a figure that’s sure to catch the eye of budget-conscious riders.
The N125’s performance isn’t just about straight-line speed. With a ground clearance of 198mm, it’s well-equipped to handle the diverse and often challenging Indian road conditions.
The bike can reportedly accelerate from 0-60 kmph in around 6 seconds, with a top speed of approximately 112 kmph – numbers that promise an engaging ride for novice and experienced riders alike.
Features That Matter
Bajaj hasn’t skimped on features with the Pulsar N125. The bike comes standard with a 240mm front disc brake, ensuring reliable stopping power.
The base variant sports 17-inch alloy wheels with a 100/90-17 rear tyre, while the top-tier model ups the ante with a chunkier 110/80-17 rear tyre for improved grip and stability.
The fuel tank capacity stands at a practical 9.7 litres, striking a balance between range and weight. In a nod to practicality, Bajaj has retained the trusty kickstarter alongside the electric start – a feature that many riders still appreciate for its reliability.
Tech-savvy riders will appreciate the all-digital instrument console, which comes standard across variants. The top-spec model takes it a step further with a full TFT instrument cluster featuring Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to stay connected on the go.
Variants and Pricing
Bajaj is offering the Pulsar N125 in two variants. The base LED Disc variant starts at ₹94,707, while the top-tier LED Disc BT variant is priced at ₹98,707.
The ₹4,000 premium for the top variant nets buyers a thicker rear tyre, the aforementioned TFT instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, and an auto start/stop assist feature. Interestingly, the top variant is also 2.5 kg lighter than its base counterpart, which could translate to slightly nimbler handling.
Market Position and Availability
The Pulsar N125 is strategically positioned to appeal to riders looking for a sporty commuter that doesn’t break the bank. It’s a calculated move by Bajaj to capture a slice of the market that’s increasingly drawn to feature-rich, stylish 125cc motorcycles.
Initially, the Pulsar N125 will be available in the Uttar Pradesh and Delhi regions, coinciding with the festive season – a prime time for vehicle purchases in India. Bajaj plans to roll out the bike to the rest of India in phases, with nationwide availability expected by January 2025.
The Road Ahead – Bajaj Pulsar N125
With the launch of the Pulsar N125, Bajaj has thrown down the gauntlet in the 125cc segment. This new entrant promises to blend the Pulsar’s sporty DNA with the practicality and efficiency demanded by entry-level buyers.
As it hits the streets, it will be interesting to see how it fares against established rivals and whether it can carve out a significant niche for itself.
The Pulsar N125 is more than just a new model; it’s a statement of intent from Bajaj. It represents the company’s commitment to evolving with the market while staying true to the Pulsar ethos that has captivated riders for over two decades.
As young India looks for affordable yet aspirational two-wheelers, the Pulsar N125 stands ready to zip its way into the hearts and garages of a new generation of riders.