KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- First-ever fully-faired motorcycle from Bajaj Auto, the Pulsar RS200, is priced at Rs 1,73,850
- Pulsar RS200's single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 199.5cc engine, shared with the Pulsar NS200, claims 24.5 PS of maximum power and 18.5 Nm of maximum torque
- Pulsar RS200 was the first-ever Bajaj motorcycle to get dual halogen projector headlamps and LED turn indicators
Love it or hate it, much has been said about the super aggressive styling and performance prowess of the Pulsar RS200, Bajaj Auto's first-ever fully-faired sports bike. Launched almost a decade ago, the Pulsar RS200 is still going strong for those who want a motorcycle with sporty looks and equally sporty performance.
While it might not be as modern as its direct rivals, the Yamaha R15 V4 and Hero Karizma XMR, it still has decent features that classify it as a modern sports bike for the masses. Before moving ahead, join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group to stay updated on the latest automotive news and industry insights.
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Bajaj Pulsar RS200: Projector Headlamps
The Bajaj Pulsar RS200 is currently the most affordable motorcycle with dual projector headlamps. These halogen projector headlamps are flanked by LED position lamps in the front fascia.
Competition Check While the Pulsar RS200 has dual halogen projector headlamps, the Yamaha R15 V4 and Hero Karizma XMR have brighter and more advanced LED projector headlamps with LED DRLs.
Bajaj Pulsar RS200: LED Tail Lamp & Turn Indicators
The Pulsar RS200 was Bajaj Auto's first motorcycle to get LED turn indicators, which it shares with the entire KTM range in India. It also gets a unique-looking LED tail lamp setup that is integrated into the motorcycle's rear fender and looks seamless.
Competition check - Like the Pulsar RS200, the R15 V4 and Karizma XMR also get LED turn indicators and tail lamps, but the LED turn indicators are available only in the R15M and not the Standard version of the R15.
Bajaj Pulsar RS200: Clip-on Handlebars
The Bajaj Pulsar RS200's full fairing bodywork is accompanied by clip-on handlebars that give it a sportier riding feel. Unlike its naked version, the Pulsar NS200, the Pulsar RS200's clip-on handlebars are positioned for a relatively more comfortable touring-oriented setup.
Competition check - Even the R15 V4 and Karizma XMR have clip-on handlebars, with those of the R15 V4 positioned even lower for a more aggressive riding posture for outright track riding.
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Bajaj Pulsar RS200: Backlit switchgear
The Bajaj Pulsar range was the first motorcycle brand in India to get backlit switches. These help the rider see the switches more clearly, increasing their usability in low-light riding conditions. The Pulsar RS200 also gets backlit switches with blue illumination on either side of the switches.
Competition check While the Pulsar RS200 has backlit switches, the Yamaha R15V4 and Hero Karizma XMR miss out on this feature
Bajaj Pulsar RS200: Dual-channel ABS
The Pulsar RS200 comes equipped with a 300mm disc brake at the front and a 230mm disc brake at the rear. These petal disc brakes are assisted by dual-channel ABS as standard. This new feature was introduced in the last update for the Pulsar RS 200, enhancing its braking experience.
Competition check: Like the Pulsar RS200, the Yamaha R15 V4 and Hero Karizma XMR have dual-channel ABS as standard.
Features Missing:
Despite costing Rs 1.93 lakh on-road, the Pulsar RS200 lacks a digital tachometer, which several companies provide in their bikes priced around 1 lakh. Additionally, the main headlights of this bike are all halogen, not LED. Furthermore, there are no ride modes or switchable ABS modes, and lastly, no USD fork.
Comparison With Rivals:
| Features | Bajaj Pulsar RS200 | Yamaha R15 V4 | Hero Karizma XMR |
| Dual Channel ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| LED headlights | No | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Display | No | Yes | Yes |
| Backlit Switchgear | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Clip-on handlebars | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ride Modes | No | Yes | No |
| USB Charging Port | No | No | Yes |
| Traction Control | No | Yes | No |
| USD Fork | No | Yes | No |
Verdict
While the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 has a decent equipment list that matches its premium positioning, the competition has moved much ahead with better equipment levels in the direct rivals Yamaha R15 V4 and Hero Karizma XMR. The Pulsar RS200 has remained unchanged since its launch a decade ago. And given the rivals' new-generation features like Bluetooth-enabled instrument console, assist-and-slipper clutch and LED projector headlamps, the Pulsar RS200 desperately needs a more comprehensive upgrade with design and feature updates.
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