Bajaj Pulsar NS125

The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 looks very aggressive for a 125cc motorcycle. Its hornet-looking fascia is flanked by a sharp LED headlamp assembly. This naked motorcycle also comes with conventional-looking mirrors and a pair of signal lights, ensuring that the rider has maximum visibility at all times. Underneath, it gets a blacked-out front fender, designed for both style and functionality.

Up front, the rider gets a digital instrument panel that displays the odometer, speedometer, tachometer, tripmeter, fuel gauge, as well as an oil change indicator. While its saddle may not be the plushest in its segment, it still provides decent comfort and ergonomics for both the rider and the pillion. The average Filipino rider (under 6 ft. tall) can easily maintain a good riding position on this motorcycle, thanks to its low seat height and rubber foot pegs. At the back, your passenger also has access to built-in grab handles, making low-speed filters more safe and comfortable for him or her.

Going back to its design. The Pulsar NS125 flaunts a muscular side profile, which is further enhanced by sharp fairings and blacked-out naked features. This naked motorcycle runs on a pair of 17-inch wheels wrapped in tubeless tyres, which deliver great traction and stability, even on wet roads. Meanwhile, its sharp, sporty rear is illuminated with split-type LED tail lamps. It also comes with another pair of signal lights and a blacked-out rear fender.

In terms of dimensions, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 measures 2,012 mm in length, 810 mm in width, 1,078 mm in height, and 805 mm in seat height. This naked motorcycle also has a wheelbase of 1,353 mm and a ground clearance of 179 mm.

In terms of suspension, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is equipped with a Telescopic Fork at the front and a Mono Shock Absorber at the rear. This naked motorcycle is light and very nimble to maneuver through traffic and crowded urban areas. In terms of handling, it hits turns and corners with confidence and respectable precision. While it may not offer the most supple ride in its class, the Pulsar NS125 can still deliver a pleasant and fairly adaptable cruising experience in the city. 

Powering the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is a 124cc single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve, air-cooled engine that produces 12 hp of maximum power and 11 Nm of maximum torque. This naked motorcycle comes mated to a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox.

While it may not deliver the most exciting experience for spirited riders out there, this naked motorcycle still has enough power and torque to get you to your destination efficiently and economically. Like most Bajaj motorcycles, the Pulsar NS125 boasts great fuel efficiency, even when you are riding in mixed conditions. However, its ride refinement could still be improved. But, its performance is more than enough for its asking price.

In terms of safety, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is equipped with side reflectors, a pass switch, as well as an engine check warning. This naked motorcycle utilizes a disc for front braking and a drum for rear braking. That said, its braking setup offers decent stopping performance for its price range.

In my opinion, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 remains a game-changer in its segment. It proves that confident handling and attractive naked bike styling do not have to come at the expense of practicality and everyday usability. That said, it is a great first sporty motorcycle option for both young professionals and budget-conscious commuters.