Launched as the flagship motorcycle from Bajaj in the year of 2009 and widely marketed as the ‘Fastest Indian’. The Pulsar 220F rose to monumental heights in terms of sales and widespread approval. At the time, this motorcycle swept over the competition owing to its muscular styling, rapid performance, and comfortable ride quality.
A little over a decade later, the entire Pulsar series, now, seems rather dated in design. The fantastic engine and raw performance that the Pulsars are known for have arguably retained their relevancy in today’s highly competitive motorcycle market. Although the Pulsar 220F is quite a looker, it’s about time this motorcycle received a proper cosmetic makeover. The same goes for almost all Bajaj motorcycles. How does the local legend fare in the current trend? How is the engine performance? Has the ride quality been improved? Find out all about the above and much more in this detailed research analysis on every Indian’s dream machine, the Pulsar 220F.
Pros: Appropriately Priced, Strong Mid-Range, Comfortable Posture, Decent Fuel-Efficiency
Cons: Looks Identical To The Pulsar 180F, Dated Design, Limited Colour Options
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Design
The Pulsar 220 has been grabbing eyeballs since it was first launched. The design is a blend between morbid intensity and cool practicality. This motorcycle gets a front setup consisting of a projector headlamp, bird-like faring gliding from around the headlamp to meet the functional visor, and finally concluding with sharp tank shrouds on either side. The mirrors are tastefully integrated into the faring thus completing the front area of this motorcycle.
As we move on to the rear, we are met with side panels below the seat and along the length of this motorcycle, the rear end complements the design with a vertically split LED tailpiece that is similar to what you see on most Bajaj performance motorcycles. The side-mounted exhaust on the Pulsar 220F is, however, one of a kind that’s not available on other Pulsar motorcycles. Finally! Something to set it apart from the rest. The blacked-out 6-spoke alloys look fairly intimidating against the backdrop of the black-themed lower half of the motorcycle.
The stickering accents on the tank, front and side faring and alloys add a touch of jest to the overall appeal. The engine bash plate/heat-guard is also generously slathered with stickering decals that look just great. The front-wheel fender is adorned with stickering accents that the Pulsar 180F misses out on. Between the semi-faired pulsar siblings, there’s not much to differentiate them by, but, the Pulsar 220F looks complete and boasts a bigger bike feel to it.
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Features
The Bajaj Pulsar 220F gets the same semi-digital instrument cluster available across the Pulsar series. Meaning the odometer and the speedometer are fully digital wherein the tachometer is completely analogue. The backlit switches prove to be practical and also look quite cool. On the mechanical side, this motorcycle boasts a 5-speed manual gearbox equipped with fuel injection. It’s also paired with single-channel ABS that will come in handy in certain circumstances.
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Engine Performance
The Pulsar 220F like all other Pulsars has a strong low and mid-range while experiencing slight vibrations in the higher RPMs. The Pulsar 220F is powered by a 220cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled, fuel-injected engine mated to a five-speed gearbox producing 20.11 BHP at 8500 RPM and 18.55 Nm of torque at 7000 RPM. This particular motorcycle is highly capable of coping with energetic riding and also cruising at around 80 – 95 km/h on the highway.
The inclusion of fuel injection over the previous carburettor system has helped this motorcycle rev higher, cleaner, and also more efficient than before. The refinement has also been further improved providing for a vibration-free riding experience for the most part.
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Mileage (or Fuel Efficiency)
The Pulsar 220F with all its performance boasts an impressive mileage of 35 km/l – 38 km/l in the city. On the highway, one can expect anywhere between 38 km/l – 42 km/l. The 15-litre fuel tank is quite practical for touring purposes considering a riding range of up to 600 – 650 km.
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Handling (or Dynamics)
The Pulsar 220F is a nimble motorcycle that takes on its handling duties with great ease. What makes this motorcycle so great at handling? The 37 mm front telescopic suspension accompanied by the 5-way adjustable, twin ‘nitrox’ shock absorber at the rear provides for a comfortable and attentive riding experience. The motorcycle sits atop a double-cradle frame that distributes the weight of 160 kgs splendidly along the length of the Pulsar 220F. In comparison to other Pulsar series motorcycles, the Pulsar 220F is the heaviest.
What comes as an advantage may also prove otherwise in terms of the cornering capabilities of the motorcycle, granted, it’s not meant to be pushed hard in corners with the knee down, but, the Pulsar 220F lacks the stability needed in those dire circumstances. The small section front and rear tyres and seating position of the rider contribute to the same.
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Comfort (or Ergonomics)
One of the reasons the Pulsar 220F has become such a hit is due to the practicality it offers, one such area it excels is in the comfort division. This motorcycle can comfortably seat a rider with a pillion and still offer a spirited riding performance. The clip-on handlebar is wide and propped up at a comfortable height but could be improved for taller riders provided it is placed higher, the placement of the foot-pegs are such that both the occupants are sitting upright in a relaxed manner.
The Pulsar 220F gets split seats, one for the rider and one at the back for the pillion. Both provide ample comfort and room to move and adjust yourself to your comfort. The seat itself is at an ideal balance between soft and stiff and placed conveniently at the height of 785 mm which should be accessible for most people in our country.
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Safety (or Brakes)
The Pulsar 220F is highly satisfactory in terms of braking thanks to the dual-disc on offer. The 280 mm front disc and the 230 mm rear disc provide for a highly responsive and engaging braking experience that boosts the confidence of the rider. The assurance of single-channel ABS on the front wheel makes the Pulsar 220F all the safer to ride. Considering the impressive kerb weight of 160 kgs, the stopping power of this motorcycle is ample. The braking set-up is directly dished down to the smaller Pulsar 180F.
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Service
Bajaj being a well-established motorcycle brand has stood the test of time and proved resilient in all its endeavours. They offer a wide range of authorised service centres and showrooms across the country where people can buy their motorcycles and get them promptly serviced, at an affordable cost. The average service interval for the Pulsar 220F is anywhere between 4000 to 6000 km, this particular two-wheeler should cost you somewhere between Rs. 800/- to Rs. 2000/- for its service.
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Price
Following is the price of the Pulsar 220F (on-road, Mumbai) –
- Bajaj Pulsar 220F – Rs. 1,53,005/-
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Resale Value
Bajaj is a brand that promises motorcycles that are easy to maintain, sturdy, and have a respectable build quality. The Pulsar 220F should have a fairly adequate resale value depending on the mileage on the odometer, accidents (if any), and overall maintenance.
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Colours
The Bajaj Pulsar 220F is available in the following colours.
- Black Red
- Black Blue
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Specs
- Engine: 220cc, Oil-Cooled, 4-Stroke, Single-Cylinder
- Power: 20.11 BHP at 8500 RPM
- Torque: 18.55 Nm at 7000 RPM
- Transmission: 5-speed Manual
- Fuel Consumption: 35-42 km/l
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Chassis: Double-Cradle
- Suspension: Telescopic Forks (Front), 5-Step Adjustable Nitrox Shock Absorbers (Rear)
- Tyres: 90/90 17 Tubeless (Front), 120/80 17 Tubeless (Rear)
- Brakes: 280 mm Disc (Front), 230 mm Drum (Rear)
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Dimensions
- Length x Width x Height: 2035 mm x 750 mm x 1165 mm
- Wheelbase: 1350 mm
- Ground Clearance: 165 mm
- Seat Height: 785 mm
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15-litres
- Kerb Weight: 160 kgs
Bajaj Pulsar 220F Rating
We give the Pulsar 220F a 3.5/5 rating
Bajaj Pulsar 220F vs Bajaj Pulsar 180F
As unlikely as it may seem, the younger brother, the Pulsar 180F is a lively contender alongside the Pulsar 220F. The Pulsar 180F is on offer at close to Rs. 10,000/- cheaper than the elder sibling. The only major difference between the two stands to be the larger capacity engine. Everything else like the suspension, tyres, seat, and overall design remains exactly the same thus making it rather confusing for customers to make a well-informed decision.
But, at the excess of Rs. 10,000/- the 220F carries a better aesthetic appeal, is faster, gets oil-cooling, and also boasts the title of being the premium Pulsar. The debate is still a tad bit unconvincing, isn’t it? Do let us know what you make of this comparison!
Bajaj Pulsar 220F vs TVS Apache RTR 200 4V
At the price range of the Bajaj Pulsar 220F, the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is an intimidating opponent that needs almost no introduction. The Apache RTR 200 has cemented its name in the performance-commuter segment since its launch. The BS6 avatar boasts a class-leading Bluetooth connectivity feature as standard and also packs a LED headlight setup. What’s more? TVS has incorporated the Glide Through Technology that enables ease in hectic traffic circumstances.
While the features on offer may seem overwhelming, both the motorcycles make more or less the same power figures on paper. On the road, the Pulsar 220F should be more fun to ride thanks to the rapid nature of the engine. Both motorcycles are also competitively priced. For excess of Rs. 5000/- over the price of the Bajaj motorcycle, the Apache RTR 200 is available as the Dual-channel ABS variant. The Bajaj motorcycle falls short by quite a bit, doesn’t it?
Final Verdict
The Pulsar 220F is the perfect example of what Bajaj seems to lack. A motorcycle that was once the belle of the ball fails to attract buyers now. This motorcycle is in dire need of a complete cosmetic overhaul and also key features like dual-channel ABS and radial tyres. Although the Pulsar 220F is a highly reliable motorcycle with a long track record showcasing its practicality and performance, this motorcycle could do with the updates mentioned above.
We hope this article has helped provide some clarity and hopefully aided you before your big purchase. Thank you for reading and ride safely. Cheers!
