Bajaj Pulsar AS 150 Test Ride Review

• May 23, 2015
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Bajaj’s Pulsar Marque achieved a cult status, because of the series’ most potent and the oldest offering- The 150. The Pulsar 150 is termed as the largest selling 150cc motorcycle in India (considered from its induction back in 2002). The 150 underwent substantial visual changes and got various segment-first features like Backlit switches, Side stand indicator, Self start, Full DC lighting, LED tail lamps, Digital instrument console and many others, and its ease of maintenance which helped it to sell in higher volumes, despite its age old engine.

At the Unveiling of the RS200, Rahul Bajaj revealed the fact that a whole new range of Pulsars are in the pipeline, though he declined to state the nature and price point of them. This news left us enthusiasts in a bit of disappointment, waiting for the new age Pulsar to arrive in front of our eyes.

Then on April 9th 2015,Bajaj unveiled two new motorcycles, badged as “Adventure sports” by the Chakan-Based manufacturer- One was the AS200 which was based on the proven and potent 200NS which arrived back in 2012, and the other one was The AS150, which is the most powerful bike with an air cooled motor (according to BAL). We were curious to know how it fares when its pitched against its Japanese counterparts, hence took her out for a spin.

Initial Impressions : The AS looks like any other half faired Discover (Say,the 150F) when viewed from a distance, the moment you get closer you’ll be surprised by the way its built. The design lines are well pronounced and well made without any abrupt and unpleasant creases or interruptions. The tank cowl is cleverly integrated into the half fairing, which Bajaj could’ve used to increase the AS’ tank capacity by another 3-4 litres, so as to give it a tad more tank range. The All new headlamp utilizes the 220’s lighting setup (Projector for low beam and a halogen for high beam), yet is integrated in a casing similar to the NS’s headlight assembly. The console is the same yellow backlit one taken directly from the 200NS, so is the Blue backlit switchgear. The AS 150 is virtually a 200NS/AS/RS with a 150cc engine, smaller front brake and a rear drum coupled with thinner tires and a softer suspension setup. But the whole bike is now dependent on its all new 150cc engine.

The plastic quality is as good as the RS and the NS. However, we observed some niggles like uneven panel gaps, which might be sorted out by Bajaj in the near future. But I felt that the Fairing on the 150 is a bit overdone due to the fact that it has a faux radiator shroud, on contrary to the AS200 which has a real one. We suggest not to remove the shroud as it might play a part in directing cool air towards the engine more effectively.

The Ride : Start the engine and you’ll be welcomed by a smoother and calmer purr, which is a contrast to the throaty and roaring exhaust note of the older gen Pulsar. This all new engine has a longer stroke and a four valved head ensures smoother engine performance. The gearshifts are smooth, with the five speed gearbox offering smooth shifts but with lesser feedback when compared with its Japanese counterparts. Vibrations are minimum, with the slightest bit of vibes creeping in at higher RPM’s (>7000-8000 Rpm) which are further nullified by the heavy bar end weights mounted on the faux clip-on handlebars and the rubber padding on the foot pegs. NVH levels are well controlled, and the refinement levels are a couple of notches above the current gen Pulsars, almost with the Japanese counterparts.

Though the engine is a long-stroke engine, it revs upto a staggering 10,000 RPM. Though the engine sounds a little stressed when its above 7500-8000 RPM, its quite rev happy and builds revs quickly, yet doesn’t heat up much. Braking duties are handled by a 240mm single disc at the front and a drum brake at the rear. The front disc offers decent feedback and bite, considering the fact that its a Endurance made caliper (ByBre ones might land in soon). The thin tires offer great grip on the tarmac, but it might hinder confidence while cornering. The windshield of course offer ample protection from wind blasts, making it a good addition for tourer motorcycles. This when coupled with a ultra smooth engine and a stable chassis makes this AS150 a boon for tourers on a budget.

The AS has a relaxed riding stance, with slightly rear set footpegs, high raised handlebars and a comfortable seat. This combination ensures that the rider can ride for miles together without experiencing any sort of fatigue. The Perimeter frame offers great stiffness , whereas the suspension being set to the softer side (For being commuter friendly), offers great comfort to the rider in all possible conditions.

The Verdict: At 81,000 INR (Ex-showroom Hyderabad) or 92,000 INR On road, the AS150 is aimed at the tourers who are on a budget and needs a great tank range, yet be a commuter friendly motorcycle. Its another value for money offering from Bajaj Auto.

Review By: Suraj
Photographs By: Ahmed Faraz