BIG BOYS WITH AMAZING TOYS. Review on Bajaj Pulsar AS 200

AFTER EXPERIENCING BAJAJ PULSAR AS 200 ON CITY ROADS AND HIGHWAYS I REALLY CAME TO KNOW ABOUT THIS GREAT MACHINE

*The AS 200, sports the same old carbureted, liquid-cooled, 199.5cc, motor and churns out identical power figures of 23.2bhp and 18.3Nm.

The AS bikes use the same chassis as the NS, so as you would expect, riding dynamics are on par with the older bike, which is a good thing for city as well as highway rides. Just that the 150 doesn’t feel as nicely weighted through tight corners as the 200cc version, or packs the same braking power with its smaller disc brakes.

Dimension-ally, both the AS variants are exactly the same in height, length and wheelbase. Even the steering geometry is the same. The only difference is the slimmer front forks and a slightly reworked mono-shock that has been tuned keeping the 10 kg weight difference in mind. But both bikes incorporate the improvements that Bajaj has carried out on since the NS came out two years ago. As a result, the AS motorcycles are very refined products overall, with linear power delivery.

The AS 150 gets a 5-speed shifter instead of the 200’s 6-speed. Guess Bajaj wanted to keep costs in check but according to us, a 6-speed would have suited the bikes touring characteristics better. The bikes’ riding position, though sporty, leans more towards comfort.

Although not the best out there, AS 150's cornering ability will surely impress Pulsar loyalists as well as others looking for a sporty bike in this segment. The MRF Zappers do a good job of holding the road and providing ample amount of grip all throughout. It’s commendable how much effort Bajaj has taken in the handling department, especially when you compare it to the last generation Pulsar.

The Bajaj Pulsar AS 150 and 200 come across as well-rounded products. It’s not only a step forward in every way when compared to the older-gen Pulsar, but also holds its own against the competition. What's really noteworthy is that Bajaj has worked hard on this all new 150cc motor, and the refinement and performance is nearly as good as some of its more premium Japanese rivals.

The numbers

AS 150

Engine: 149.5cc, air-cooled, 16.7bhp, 13Nm, 5-speed, Fuel capacity: 12ltr, weight: 143kg, Price: ?79, 000(ex-Delhi)

AS 200

Engine: 199.5cc, liquid cooled, 23.2bhp, 18.3Nm, 6-Speed, Fuel capacity: 12ltr, weight: 153kg, Price: ?91, 550(ex-Delhi)

The verdict

The AS range has broadened the spectrum of the brand that is Pulsar, giving the performance bike a more adventure/tourer focused outlook, while maintaining its pocket friendly appeal.*