The new Pulsar RS 200 is not only the fastest Pulsar yet but also the most advanced bike to come from Bajaj Auto at an extremely competitive price tag.
The most awaited launch of the year in the two-wheeler space has finally taken place, Bajaj has officially launched the 2015 Pulsar RS 200 in India with prices starting from Rs. 1.18 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). The fastest Pulsar to come out of the manufacturer’s Chakan based facility, the RS 200 shares everything under the skin with the 200 NS but still emerges as a completely new bike with a lot more to offer. With Bajaj having kept all the details under wraps till now, read on to know everything about the newest super sport in town.
Design – The Pulsar RS 200 takes its design inspiration from the 400 SS showcased at the Auto Expo last year and is a miniaturized version in every sense. Sporting a completely new design language, the RS 200 gets an imposing front fascia that looks every bit aggressive with the dual headlight design that are equipped with projector lamps and LED DRLs. The LED turn indicators look sleek and are similar to the ones on the KTM Duke. At the sides, the full fairing gets razor sharp lines accentuated by the colour scheme while the tail section gets floating clear lens LED tail lights that look quirky and stand out from the ones seen otherwise. There is not a single Bajaj badge on the Pulsar RS 200.
In addition, the Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 gets several upgrades over the 200 NS to support the super sport tag including clip-on handlebars, wide front windscreen, split seats, and a side mounted exhaust replacing the underbelly unit. The riding position, however, is more relaxed on the RS 200 which will be appreciated for those who want to frequently tour. The spring loaded rear foot pegs have also been carried over from the 200 NS.
Features – The Pulsar RS 200 comes loaded with goodies enhancing its value for money factor. The super sports bike gets an analog-digital console featuring an analog tachometer, digital speedometer with clock, temperature gauge, side stand indicator and service reminder. A first for the Pulsar lineup, Bajaj has equipped the RS 200 with Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) safety feature available as optional on the top-end variant and is a single-channel unit. The base variant misses out on ABS altogether.
Engine – The 2015 Pulsar RS 200 is powered by the same 199.5cc single-cylinder, 4-valve, triple-spark, liquid-cooled engine that now comes equipped with fuel injection and has power bumped to 24.5 PS at 9750 RPM and 18.6 Nm of torque at 8000 RPM. The motor continues to be paired to the 6-speed gearbox and gets no changes to the gear ratios.
Performance Figures – Bajaj has tagged the new RS 200 as the ‘Fastest Pulsar Yet’ and true to its title, the bike boasts of some impressive performance figures. The Pulsar RS 200 is capable of achieving a top speed of 141 km/hr, making it by far the fastest Pulsar to have been produced by the company and has a kerb weight of 165 kgs. The power-to-weight ratio stands at 148.5 BHP per tonne. Bajaj claims a fuel efficiency figure of around 54 km/l on the RS 200.
Mechanicals – Based on the same pressed steel perimeter frame as the 200 NS, the Pulsar RS 200 is larger than its naked sibling in dimensions. Sharing its mechanicals with the 200 NS though, the RS 200 uses telescopic forks at the front with anti-friction bush while the rear gets a Nitrox monoshock suspension set-up. Stopping power comes from the same 300 mm front disc and the 230 mm rear disc brakes. The bike also gets upgraded rubber and now uses meatier MRF Zappers replacing the Euro grip tyres. The fuel tank capacity stands at 13-litres.
Competition – The Pulsar RS 200 has been pitted against the Yamaha R15 2.0 and the upcoming Honda CBR150R facelift in the segment, but at this price point is a more affordable offering amongst its rivals.
Clearly, Bajaj’s extensive testing periods have surely paid off with the extensive amount of tech on offer. The Pulsar RS 200 is available in only two colours – yellow and red. Dealers across the country have already started taking bookings for the sports bike with deliveries to commence very soon. The RS 200 is first of the 5 Pulsars that are set for launch this year with other models being the Pulsar 200 AS, 150 NS and 150 AS while the 400 SS will arrive next year.
2015 Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 Prices (ex-showroom, Delhi) –
* Pulsar RS 200 Non-ABS – Rs. 1,18,000/-
* Pulsar RS 200 ABS – Rs. 1,30,000/-
