I own this motorcycle since last year. I had submitted a review for this bike before, but a much negative one. I would like to submit an ownership review now. And now that about 6k kilometers are done things have changed a lot.
Performance - engine generates 13 bhp of power. But u can feel it only if u push it hard. Engine lacks low end torque which makes quick overtakes and climbing ghats a bit strenuous and slow. However if pushed hard enough, once engine crosses a certain rpm, engine starts delivering good amount of power.
It’s a 4 valve engine. It is meant to be ridden hard. I have attained top speed of 105kph. It could reach there without a little hint of strain and engine wasn’t noisy at all and minimum vibrations. This is some good stuff. If u feel bike isn’t picking speed up quickly, just downshift and see the difference.
Engine has vibrations. Most at 50-55 kph. After that smooth till 70 kph. Then above that very little vibrations persist all the way but don’t increase. Vibrations are felt most at pillion side.
After 3 servicing I am getting fe of 53kmpl, which I feel is very low for a mileage oriented bike. I ride at 50-60 kph. This bike should be giving me 55-60 kmpl avg at least. So I have been disappointed with mileage. Twice I have taken bike to svc to get mileage corrected. But they seem have failed.
Looks - Bike looks very good and has a very flowing design to it. Tank is beautifully sculpted, but knee recesses are overdone and don’t serve much purpose if you are tall. 5 spoke spider web rim design looks stunning and grabs attention. Monoshock makes tail section look uncluttered but a huge tyre hugger and a full number plate hanger again adds to the clutter. However protects from mud in monsoon.
Headlight and side faring is beautiful.
Ergonomics - biggest plus of this bike is Monoshock. It helps to great extent in handling and comfort. Due to this, bike feels planted and stable at high speeds. Tyres are biggest negative of this motorcycle. Bulls**t thin tyres that too of some cheap korean brand.
Absolutely pathetic, I never feel confident while cornering or hard braking.
Turning radius is very small and thus helps in zipping through the traffic. Seating posture is perfect and relaxed. One can go even a 100 km without a break.
Seat is just amazing. It is nicely cushioned and very broad. Pillion has most comfort because of broad seat and Monoshock.
Braking is very good with petal disc brake. It doesn’t have bite as that on a pulsar, but that helps avoiding in accidentally lifting the rear when u slam on the brakes. U can easily stop from 60 to 0 within 16 meters.
Features - lighting is full dc, so u get constant illumination without having to raise the accelerator to avoid Headlight from dimming.
Lacks kill switch, sheer kanjoosi.
Console is stone age in features but modern in arrangement. Looks good, but Tachometer is missing. It would have been very helpful. Another instance of sheer cost cutting(read kanjoosi)
Backlight of dials is very dim.
Tail light could have been led but it is standard bulb type. If older discover is having led tail lamp why should new discover get old tech?
Buttons and switches are of good quality.
Advisory -
1. ditch authorized bajaj svc. Those guys are lazy and unskilled. Find a good locla mechanic and get it serviced there. Do first free service in authorized svc, if u feel they are good only then continue there. Otherwise their lack of expertise can damage your bike.
2. Never use bajaj oil. Ask them to use motul or castrol power 1 of same grade as mentioned in owner’s manual.
3. If u feel mileage is very low, get carburetor tuned but from a good mechanic.
4. If u feel suspension is hard, don’t worry Monoshock can be nicely adjusted. Go for softer setting. You will just love it as I do.
5. Get the tyres changed as soon as u can. Stock tyres are horrendous.
6. Never ever take your bike to top speed before first 500 km. You can seriously damage the engine
7. If u feel there are too many vibrations, clean air filter and get the oil changed.
8. Keep oiling and greasing the chain every month. U will never face vibrations.