The Bajaj Pulsar 180, since its launch alongside the Pulsar 150, in 2001, has been a dynamic motorcycle that has been a fan favourite for over two decades now. The partnership this motorcycle held with the Pulsar 150 has arguably changed the course of the Indian motorcycle scene.
In recent times, ruthless competition from Japanese and other Indian brands has drastically driven down the sales of the Pulsar 180. After a long due upgrade, Bajaj launched the Pulsar 180F, bearing the same styling and faring cues of the sensational Pulsar 220F. Is the Pulsar 180F still relevant? Has the cosmetic upgrade helped Bajaj boost its sales? How does it fare against its competition? Find out all about the above and much more in this detailed research analysis on the pulsating Pulsar 180F!
Pros: Class-Leading Power Figures, Comfortable Ride-Quality, Refined Engine, Updated Looks
Cons: The Same Faring As The Pulsar 220F, Lacks Top-End Performance, Vibrations Across RPMs
Bajaj Pulsar 180F Design
The Pulsar 180F recently received long-needed attention from its makers. The result? This motorcycle now adapts almost all of the design cues on offer with the Pulsar 220F. It gets a brand new tank faring set-up 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 the Pulsar 180F, 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 with its chrome-finish heat/crash shield along with the blacked-out 6-spoke alloys looks 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 three colour options available are also highly attractive.
Bajaj Pulsar 180F Features
The Bajaj Pulsar 180F gets a semi-digital instrument cluster. 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 180F Engine Performance
The Pulsar 180F like all other Pulsars, has a strong low and mid-range while experiencing slight vibrations in the higher RPMs. The Pulsar 180F is powered by a 178.6cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine mated to a five-speed gearbox producing 16.6 BHP at 8500 RPM and 14.52 Nm of torque at 6500 RPM. This particular motorcycle is highly capable of coping with energetic riding and also cruising at around 80 – 95 km/h on the highway.
Although the Pulsar 180F received a massive cosmetic upgrade, the mechanicals across the motorcycles have been carried over from the highly reliable Pulsar 180
Bajaj Pulsar 180F Mileage (or Fuel Efficiency)
The Pulsar 180F with all its performance boasts an impressive mileage of 38 km/l – 42 km/l in the city. On the highway, one can expect anywhere between 42 km/l – 46 km/l. The 15-litre fuel tank is quite practical for touring purposes considering a riding range of up to 600 – 700 km.
Bajaj Pulsar 180F Handling (or Dynamics)
The Pulsar 180F 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 156 kgs splendidly along the length of the Pulsar 180F.
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 180F 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 180F Comfort (or Ergonomics)
One of the reasons the Pulsar 180F 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 180F 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 785mm which should be accessible for most people in our country.
Bajaj Pulsar 180F Safety (or Brakes)
The Pulsar 180F 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 180F all the safer to ride. Considering the impressive kerb weight of 156 kgs, the stopping power of this motorcycle is ample.
Bajaj Pulsar 180F 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 180F 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 180F Price
Following is the price of the Pulsar 180F (on-road, Mumbai) –
- Bajaj Pulsar 180F – Rs. 1,35,194/-
Bajaj Pulsar 180F Resale Value
Bajaj is a brand that promises motorcycles that are easy to maintain, sturdy, and have a respectable build quality. The Pulsar 180F should have a fairly adequate resale value depending on the mileage on the odometer, accidents (if any), and overall maintenance.
Bajaj Pulsar 180F Colours
The Bajaj Pulsar 180F is available in the following colours.
- Black Red
- Neon Orange
- Black Silver
Bajaj Pulsar 180F Specs
- Engine: 178.6cc, Air-Cooled, 4-Stroke, Single-Cylinder
- Power: 16.6 BHP at 8500 RPM
- Torque: 14.52 Nm at 6500 RPM
- Transmission: 5-speed Manual
- Fuel Consumption: 40-44 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 180F 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: 156 kgs
Bajaj Pulsar 180F Rating
We give the Bajaj Pulsar 180F a rating of 4/5.
Bajaj Pulsar 180F vs TVS Apache RTR 180
The TVS Apache RTR 180 has always been a worthy competitor for the Bajaj motorcycle and often whisked away many prospective buyers from the Pulsar 180F. On paper, both these motorcycles share similar engine and performance figures with the Pulsar 180F leading by a minute margin. The Apache RTR 180, on the other hand, is close to 10 kgs lighter and gets Glide Through Technology which proves useful in hectic traffic conditions.
On the appearances front, we lean towards the stylish Pulsar 180F. What do you think? The fuel tank is also relatively smaller and the fuel-efficiency figures of the TVS motorcycle are slightly lesser in its comparison. The Apache RTR 180, however, is close to a whopping Rs. 15,000/- cheaper and also quite cheaper to maintain. Hard choice, isn’t it?
Bajaj Pulsar 180F vs Honda Hornet 2.0
The Honda Hornet 2.0 is one such motorcycle that Bajaj is clearly weary of. The Honda motorcycle boasts class-leading features, performance, and also one of the best power-to-weight ratios in the market. The Hornet 2.0 retains most of the design cues of the CB Hornet 160R. The visual appearance is further amplified by the golden upside-down forks and the sharp contour all over the motorcycle.
On paper, both motorcycles produce similar performance figures. But, the Honda Hornet is lighter by around 14 kgs and also flaunts similar fuel-efficiency figures to the Bajaj motorcycle. The drawback, however, is the excess of close to Rs. 20,000/- you will have to pay over the Pulsar 180F to acquire this motorcycle. Choose wisely!
Final Verdict
Like all other Bajaj motorcycles, the Pulsar 180F is a bang-for-buck investment of your money. The outright performance and handling capabilities of this motorcycle make it extremely versatile in all circumstances, the affordable service and maintenance cost also comes as a huge plus point. The impressive fuel-efficiency figures go hand-in-hand with the high-revving nature of this engine. The sweet sound of the exhaust note paired with the sharp design of the Pulsar 180F demands a keen presence on the road.
The inclusion of dual-channel ABS and a pair of wider section tyres would have sealed the deal for us. But, honestly, we cannot complain. 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!
