Bajaj Pulsar RS200: Pros, Cons, Should You Buy One

Here’s what makes the Pulsar RS200 tick and what works against it. 

Launched back in 2015 at Rs 1.30 lakh, the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 had a lot riding on it. But while it was an impressive piece of equipment, it never managed to rope in the crowds its makers would’ve wanted. Since then, the market has moved on to smaller, more performance-oriented motorcycles like the Yamaha R15 V3 and the KTM 125 Duke. 

So, does the Pulsar RS200 still make sense in today's day and age? Here’s what makes the bike tick and what works against it. 

Pros:

Impressive performance:

The RS200’s 199.5cc engine is the same unit found on the NS200. However, it’s been tuned to produce a bit more power: 24.5PS compared to 23.5PS on the NS200. While it isn’t frantic like the KTM RC200, it offers enough grunt to for quick overtakes in the city and a stress-free ride out on the highway. 

It handles well too:

Thanks to its perimeter frame, the RS200 handles pretty well too and doesn’t shy away if you show it a set of corners. Supplementing its handling prowess are some rather grippy MRF tyres. 

Comfortable Ergos:

The bike’s taller-set clip-ons offer an upright riding posture with just the right amount of lean towards the handlebars. As a result, the RS200 doesn’t take a toll on your back, be it doing long hauls or commuting in stop-and-go traffic. 

Powerful headlamp:

Bajaj set a benchmark for Indian motorcycles with the Pulsar 220F's vertically stacked projector headlamp. The throw and spread offered by its headlight was second to none. The brand steps it up a notch with the RS200 which provides enough illumination to light up the darkest of roadways. 

Cons:

Polarizing styling:

Granted that looks are subjective, but we also can’t escape the fact that the RS200 isn’t the best looking bike out there. In profile, it looks quite busy and the rear tail light, while unique, feels disproportionate to the stubby tail section. Nonetheless, the RS200’s bold colour schemes do make it stand out from the crowd.

Dated instrument console

The semi-digital instrument console on the RS200 has been borrowed from the NS 200. However, it looks and feels a bit dated considering its competition which uses a complete digital console with a host of features.

Should you buy one?

The Bajaj Pulsar RS200 still offers decent kit for its asking price. It also has enough power on tap to put a smile on your face every time you whack open the throttle. That said, it feels like a step back when compared to the Yamaha R15 V3 in its latest avatar, which retails for almost the same price as the RS200 (Rs 1.39 lakh ex-showroom, Delhi).