Want to Fly on the road? . Review on Bajaj Pulsar 220

Hi all,

I have found most mouthshut reviews very useful to choose my dream machine. Thanks a lot, people. Let me start by saying that Pulsar 220 DTSI is a flying machine(on the road). I received it on Friday(November 20) and have already ridden 500 kms in 3 days. I did not exceed 4K to 5K rpm, but you don't need to in Pune. It just takes off even at 2.5K rpm. Before you know it you are already at 70 kmph.

Long Ride: I rode it to Alibag over the weekend. I was expecting better comfort than my previous 150 cc, but was a little dissappointed that my Bum started paining at 40 km. May be a design fault with my bum(ha ha). I did not exceed 5K rpm or 75 kmph, but I felt the power of the engine. I managed to resist the temptation though. I could just race past most cars(not even exceeding 5K rpm) and then allow the engine to slow down.

First Service(Ownership experience): Completed 500 km and had my first service today. I cannot wait to race past 100 kmph this weekend. I had put a seat cover that was harder but have now removed it. The dealers push you to buy all kinds of accessories(Teflon Coating, Seat cover and so on). My suggestion, first ride the bike upto 500 kms and then choose the accessories. I am repenting the seat cover already.

Bajaj reliability: Well at first service, I saw other P220 owners replacing gear boxes at 5000 kms or some other parts here and there. I think Bajaj reliability is still years away from a Honda or Yamaha, but Hondas and Yamahas don't give you flying machines at Rs 78180 on Road. Don't expect 100% reliability, problems occur but the Probiking guys seemed helpful. Very early for me though, just 3 days into my first Bajaj ownership experience. I hope my machine is more reliable and I am going to take care of my machine.

Handling: Most reviews said that P220 was not a good handler for the city compared to R15 or even Apache RTR 180. I can't compare P220 to other bikes as I have not ridden them, but P220 carries my 6 foot, 90 kg frame with great aplomb. I was able to weave through the peak Pune traffic and the amazing low end torque gives you that flying(I know I have used this word much too often; but can't help it) sensation.

Mileage: I am not bothered much, but a Rs 200 fuel fill easily took me over 150 kms. I think the fuel economy will reduce after this as I race the bike and ride it at higher RPMs.

Highway ride: I rode my P220 dtsi from Pune to Alibag and back(300 kms) this weekend. I took it to a max speed of 115 kmph only for a few seconds. The bike feels a bit unstable at speeds over 110. While coming back, I had a opportunity to race a Bajaj Avenger. That fellow was easily cruising at 105 to 110. I tried to keep up with him for a few kms, but then gave up as my engine screamed at 8000 rpm. I am hoping that the engine will become more relaxed after second service. Overall, the highway ride was good, the bike is relatively stable even in strong winds. I sometimes think that an Avenger(cruiser) would have been a better choice for comfortable rides. On P220, I have to stop every 50 kms to rest my bums. A sixth gear is sorely missed on the highways.

Conclusion: I am proud of an Indian manufacturer competing and beating Yamaha and Hondas(in terms of highest sales in performance segment in India) of the world. If my flying machine stays in good shape for 20000 kms, it is paisa vasool for me. I am proud to be one of the fastest Indians.