So we have the third version of the first truly indigenous higher end bike out on the roads. Irrespective of any technological breakthroughs, bajaj is keeping definitely keeping many of us attentively occupied with their releases.
First it was the Pulsar DTSI, then came DISCOVER with its EXHAUSTEC and then followed CT100 with a nose job and finally we have a Pulsar DTSI-2005. There are even rumors that they are quietly planning a 250CC in the next coupla years.
Anyway let me just limit myself to P2005 or Pulsar-XTSI(as some like to call it) or whatever other names. Officially I think it is still called Pulsar-DTSI.
Whats new?
EXHAUS-TEC (improving torque or revs)
Nitrogen Gas Shock Absorbers. (Supposedly more comfortable)
Mag (or aluminium) wheels (utility!!!!!)
Smaller wheels (increases the dynamic stability, theoretically)
Lets look at the Cons
One very familiar problem or nuisance has been rectified to an extent or refined but not eliminated totally and that would be, of course, the Gearbox.
Yes, the gearbox feels a lot better but still reminds us of old days. The pattern of shift is the same??..all 5 down on 150 and 1 down & 4 up on 180. Probably 3 more versions and it might be perfect.
Another cause of concern to a section of enthusiasts would be the top speed. It has been lowered on both models (do not have the exact figures), although it (P180) seems to take 4.81 secs to 60kmph.
The Indian Auto Industry is getting really innovative or is it!!!!
Now the positives:
Performance
No doubt the top speed has been sacrificed but we have an increased mid range torque or higher low end revs. What does it do? Makes city driving effortless. In other words ur real world driving is made simpler. It somehow reminded me of what they had to say about Fiero f2 being an urban vehicle. I think this is where the EXHAUST-TEC helps by increasing mid range torque.
The gear ratios have been shortened and the acceleration times have increased considerably. The wheelbase has been increased (1330mm) and the height of the vehicle, on the whole has been lowered. Consequently, the center of gravity is lowered and the stability is increased. Also cornering and maneuvering is a lot easier and that means more fun in traffic. Although the seat is still a pain in my a@#$ (Literally).
Styling
The fairing has been lowered and it makes it more sportier (ride it to feel it). The mag wheels just add to the beauty. All the CBZ?s and Unicorn?s, sit up and take notice.
The power has been increased by 0.5 BHP on both models. This is really good since Karizma with 223 cc engines gives 17bhp, other things including the price being higher and better.
The tank capacity has been reduced to 15 litres though there is no visible difference.
Fuel efficiency
Well the man who designed the engine had this to say, ?we always intended for the Pulsars to be Performance bikes?. He also went on to say that if someone wanted commuter bikes they have DISCOVER to choose.
Speaks volumes about Bajaj?s Confidence (when Unicorn tries to say to whoever cares that their bikes also give mileage).
Anyway according to my information the efficiency figures have not changed much (definitely not improved, some say). I think it might be a tad lower than the previous version. But really it is upto the rider to squeeze out as much as can
And finally the brakes are as effective as ever. The Service is also good unlike Honda guys!!!!!!!!!
So whats the deal:
Better ride, better handling, better stability, good low end torque, more sportier and stylish and price remains more or less the same on P180 (the 150 has been hiked a little more)
AND
Probably lower fuel efficiency, lower top speed and still looking ????..
So
wanna ride????.
PS: the review details below r for P180