Bajaj Will Not Discontinue The Pulsar 220F Yet

It may not be the fastest Indian anymore, but the popular motorcycle won’t retire so soon

Ever since the Bajaj Pulsar F250 was spotted testing for the first time, the internet was rife with speculations over the new bike being brought in to replace the evergreen Pulsar 220F. However, despite the Pulsar F250 launch, Bajaj has chosen not to pull the plug on the popular model.

The success of the Bajaj Pulsar 220F can be attributed to its versatile nature. It features rear-set footpegs and raised clip-ons, which resulted in a sporty riding position yet was comfortable for the long haul. Complementing the ergonomics is the air- and oil-cooled 220cc single-cylinder motor belting out 20.4Ps and 18.5Nm, which gave it the famous tagline -- ‘The Fastest Indian.’

Bajaj Pulsar F250 vs Pulsar 220F: Differences Explained

2021 Bajaj Dominar 400 With Touring Kit: Photo Gallery

Honda CB200X: First Ride Review

But that’s not the case anymore. With the Pulsar 250 twins producing 24.5PS and 21.5Nm, it certainly seems like the new bikes can outrun the 220F. Furthermore, the latter hasn’t been updated much in its decade-long existence; the last update merely brought in a couple of small fixes.

Interestingly, despite sporting no new bits, the Bajaj Pulsar 220F has been raking in good numbers. In September 2021, Bajaj managed to sell 4108 units, which is more than the combined sales of the Pulsar NS160, Pulsar 180, NS200, and the RS200.

But again, at Rs 1.34 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the Pulsar 220F is just Rs 4,000 cheaper than the N250 and Rs 6,000 less than the F250. The 250 twins not only offer more performance, but also come with added features, including a slip-and-assist clutch.

With these factors in mind, the fate of the Pulsar 220F certainly depends on the success of the Pulsar F250. The brand certainly played it safe with this, hasn’t it?