The NS200 has received an update, which has made a good bunch of folks happy. However, the question is – was the update needed?
Launched in 2012, the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 was due for an update, but recently, the motorcycle finally received a much-awaited update. The legendary Pulsar from the Chakan-based manufacturer has received a new front fascia with LED DRLs and headlights. The old-gen dashboard has also witnessed the exit door as it has been replaced by a fully-digital dashboard with Bluetooth connectivity, call and SMS alerts, and turn-by-turn navigation.
Not to forget, the motorcycle now comes with three modes of ABS, such as Rain, Road and Off-Road along with traction control. However, ABS cannot be switched off in any of the modes, whereas the traction control can be switched off when the ABS is set in Off-Road mode. Mechanically, the only update the motorcycle has received is a slipper clutch.
The rest of the motorcycle has remained mechanically unchanged as it continues to draw power from an E-20 199.5cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that makes a peak power of 24.13bhp at 9,750rpm and maximum torque of 18.74Nm at 8,000rpm mated to a six-speed transmission.
The last-generation NS200 in white avatar (credit- bikewale)
The NS200 continues to ride on USD forks at the front, whereas the rear is handled by a monoshock unit. In terms of braking, the front is equipped with a 300mm single disc, whereas the rear gets a 230mm disc. The tyre sizes of the motorcycle are 100/80-17 (front) and 130/70-17 (rear).
For 12 years, the NS200 has remained more or less the same without any major updates. Therefore, a good chunk of riders have always hoped for an update. While the 2024 updates have made them a little happy, they believe the NS200 should have received a few more mechanical updates, such as an engine with better power figures, better braking capabilities, and an adjustable suspension setup.
However, on the other hand, there is the other side of the coin. The NS200 has been one of the most legendary products from the Bajaj stable. In fact, over the years, it has attained the stature of a classic motorcycle. Therefore, the new update has not been well received by some old-gen motorcycle enthusiasts. After all, the new fascia looks different than the OG Pulsar NS200, and even the latest graphics look too radical on the motorcycle. In the eyes of many, the NS200 should be left alone so that the raw-real legacy of the bike can stay intact.
The first-gen Pulsar NS200 (formerly 200NS) in yellow avatar was a rage
While the debate for and against an update is likely to stay active for a long time, the NS200 still brings a massive smile to the faces of riders. The outdated 200cc engine is still fast enough and gives out the distinct DTS-i engine sound if one remembers how it sounded a decade ago. Vibrations are felt here and there, which brings back nostalgia and should not be too bothersome for those accustomed to riding old-gen motorcycles. The chassis remains nimble enough because the NS still corners like a professional, and the addition of USD forks helps the motorcycle’s handling to a great extent.
Last but not least, the NS200, at INR 1.57 lakh, ex-showroom, still remains the best value-for-money 200cc motorcycle in the Indian market.
