Image gallery: Bajaj Pulsar RS200
The hot topic on the bike0sphere on the Interweb is the Bajaj Pulsar RS200. We have ridden the motorcycle and are quite impressed with it. On the straights at Bajaj's test track in Chakan, the Pulsar RS200 hit a speedo-indicated top speed of 151kmph. Bajaj calls it the fastest Pulsar yet and we believe that could be true. The RS200 also has all the goodies to take on the fully faired sportsbikes which fall within the 200cc capacity. Here is a look at the new Pulsar RS200.
Finish levels are as good as we've come to expect from Bajaj as is the build quality. But the design itself is extremely busy. It does have presence in the flesh but the overabundance of scoops, lines, planes, curves, textures is just too much for our taste
The Pulsar RS200's rear has two diametrically opposed elements right next to each other. One is the neatly integrated grab rails that are classy. And then there is that tail lamp which is a good idea that led to the oddest tail lamp we've ever cast eyes upon
The tail lamps are unique and stay true to the concept which was showcased at the expo last year. As in we said then that they shouldn't have and we still do
The fuel tank is the only body part the RS200 shares with the 200NS but even that is hard to tell under all that design and stickering
Twin projector head lamps topped my wee daytime running lamps make for a distinctive face for the RS200. Up close, it's as busy as the rest of it, but it's striking and will get noticed, that's for sure.
These new MRF tyres on the RS200 proved to be really impressive offering excellent grip and feedback on our ride. Bajaj says there is a small tradeoff in tyre life that was made for the grip. Note eccentric chain adjuster in the pic
The stubby exhaust can looks good and gives the motorcycle a unique voice. We could have done without that little spout sticking out of the tip though. Bajaj told us that spout was required to direct the exhaust away from a following rider
The meter dials are the most comprehensive units this side of supersport motorcycles. However, Bajaj are still missing gear position indicator. Some of the lights are hard to see in full sunlight
The Pulsar RS200 is very responsive and confident and we were surprised by how well it goes around corners. Almost makes you wish Bajaj hadn't allowed the RS to gain 12kg over the NS, really
Turn is quick enough – but not very quick – and the Pulsar RS200 feels sporty without really feeling too sharp for new riders. The balance allows the RS to be a very accessible motorcycle new riders as well as a satisfying tool in more experienced hands
More stories on the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 from OVERDRIVE
Bajaj Pulsar RS200 an what we know so far
Bajaj Pulsar RS200 video
Bajaj Pulsar RS200 launched in India
Bajaj Pulsar RS200 review
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