The Pulsar 125 has long been a strong seller for Bajaj, particularly in its Classic version. However, with growing competition from bikes like the TVS Raider and Hero Xtreme 125R, Bajaj needed to introduce something new to capture the attention of younger buyers. Enter the Pulsar N125, Bajaj’s response to this evolving 125cc segment. What’s interesting about the N125 is that it represents a clean break from previous Pulsars, bringing an entirely new approach to design and engineering.
Design, Colors, and Build Quality
The Bajaj Pulsar N125 was developed on an all-new platform, with the goal of creating a 125cc bike that weighs just 125 kg—about 20 kg lighter than previous Pulsar 125 models. This required a complete redesign, resulting in a fresh aesthetic that sets it apart from its predecessors.
The N125 features floating panels throughout, along with a headlamp design that feels distinctly non-Pulsar. Still, there are familiar touches, such as the shape of the tank extensions and the updated twin-slash tail lamps. While some of the aerodynamic bodywork on this 125cc bike is more about style than function, the vents on the front mudguard shroud are actually purposeful, designed to improve airflow for the air-cooled engine.
The bike also has some unique design choices, such as the body panel positioned between the rider and pillion seat, adding visual mass while keeping the tail section slim. Though the wide fork shrouds lend the bike a muscular appearance, some might find them excessively broad. While overall quality is decent, noticeable panel gaps suggest there’s still room for improvement. However, the bold design, particularly in Bajaj’s striking color options, ensures the N125 stands out. It may not have the ‘big-bike’ appearance of its competitors, like the Hero Xtreme 125R, but it certainly makes a statement.
Ride and Handling
The Pulsar N125 offers a seating position typical for a bike in this class. With a seat height of 795mm, it’s accessible without being the lowest in its category. The seat itself is spacious and comfortable, while the slightly rear-set footpegs give the bike a sporty edge. However, the narrow handlebar feels a bit too commuter-oriented, which takes away some of the excitement one might expect from a sportier 125cc bike.
What the N125 lacks in handlebar dynamics, it makes up for with its lightweight chassis. At 125 kg, it’s comparable to the TVS Raider, and like the Raider, it offers a nimble, easy-going ride with no nervousness in its handling. During testing on a go-kart track, the N125 impressed with its agility and willingness to lean into corners. The well-placed footpegs provided ample clearance for cornering, and the bike remained stable, without the twitchiness often seen in lighter machines. The MRF tyres provided good grip, though sharper initial braking from the front would have been a welcome addition.
Engine, Refinement, and Mileage
On city roads, the N125’s light weight and smooth dynamics should make for an enjoyable ride. The clutch, designed to require 50% less effort than competitors’, adds to this ease. With a 12hp engine, the N125 is one of the most powerful in its class, and its power-to-weight ratio of nearly 100hp per tonne gives it a performance edge.
The engine is not only refined but also sounds great, delivering strong acceleration at higher revs. Importantly, it has enough low-end torque to comfortably handle city traffic, pulling smoothly in third gear at speeds as low as 20kph. However, one quirk of the engine is that it can stall at low revs without the typical warning signs, such as vibrations or juddering. This could be tricky to manage since the bike lacks both a gear position indicator and a rev counter, making it easy to ride in low revs without realizing it.
Bajaj claims the N125 can hit 0-60kph in 6 seconds and reach a top speed of 97kph, though the speedometer may show up to 110kph. The bike accelerates briskly to 80kph, and overall performance feels competitive. Fuel efficiency is another strong point, with Bajaj claiming around 60kpl.
Price, Features, and Verdict
One of the major draws of the TVS Raider and Hero Xtreme 125R is that they pack features typically found on larger bikes, but the Pulsar N125 falls slightly behind in this regard. It does offer front disc brakes and LED head and tail lamps as standard, and the top model includes Bluetooth connectivity and a silent start system. However, it lacks key features like a gear position indicator, rev counter, and single-channel ABS, though Bajaj is open to adding ABS based on demand.
Despite not being as feature-packed as some rivals, the Pulsar N125 excels in affordability. Priced at Rs 95,000 for the base model and Rs 98,000 for the top variant, it undercuts the TVS Raider and matches the Hero Xtreme 125R. Whether it’s the best in the segment remains to be seen, but with its strong fundamentals, striking design, and competitive pricing, the N125 certainly has a chance to be a hit.
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