Bajaj Pulsar 250 Review, Road Test

As the new generation Bajaj Pulsar 250 twins reach one year to launch, we relive the memories of our first ride as we pen this down. A lot has happened. The pandemic did start subsiding but issues in many areas mean there was a delay. The Pulsar has done a lot over the last year. The highest and fastest sales for any 250cc in a very short period of time were seen too.

The company did promise us something extra time with the Pulsar twins, but that is still in the process too. Yes, we are late, but this is a road test. We managed to get the bike from one of the owners for a few days and get inputs from him who has the first owner of the Pulsar N250 in his city of Navi Mumbai. While we wait for the twins to come to us for tests again here we go telling you all about what we can. As the experience was refreshed because our first impressions on video still almost match what we road-tested now, a year later that is. Good thing right? Read on for details!

When it comes to design, the headlamp is very Pulsar-like. A true evolution of the wolf eye Pulsar headlamp design language. The LED DRL as eyebrows is the biggest highlight which grabs attention on the road for the Pulsar N250. The tank shape is largely muscular and sharp at the same time thanks to tank extensions. The Pulsar F250 on the other hand has a fairing that is really well done and the DRL setup is a bit different and sharper. Dual port exhaust is my favorite but I cannot say that about everyone who thinks it could be better. However, people do like it in the new black shade. Lights have been ideal says the owner in terms of illumination and spread which we can also confirm.

The rear tail-lamp with twin dagger style layout also is a true Pulsar tradition carried forward. The alloy wheels, bronze crank cover, body-color engine belly fairing, and subtle graphics on both motorcycles are easily identified as the Pulsar of the future. Overall, a motorcycle looks good and is proportionate. The new black color on this looks even better than before as it hints at grey and other black colors used in certain to make it look like the next-gen Pulsar design approach. A USB port and the keyhole for the rear seat opener is well placed too. The fit and finish are good and the quality is pretty good as well. The overall clean look aids in it looking very international and high quality.

The instrument cluster is a single screen with a digital layout showing a fuel gauge, trip meter, eco-driving manner, service indicators, and more. The telltale lights are in the area on the left. The tachometer is analog and that is a welcome move in 2022 for purists like me, but the new generation loves a digital one as they think it is more value. Value also comes from tradition my dear new generation!

Switchgear is new too on the motorcycles and it is high on quality and has top-notch tactility. Connectivity features are missing for now. However, it does show fuel economy parameters. Mirrors offer a good view of what is behind but could have been bigger. The ergonomics are the same as any Pulsar. You sit upright with the handlebar being a bit stretched on the Pulsar F250.

Seat height is good enough for most people who are 5’6 and above. While the taller one’s just about to get enough legroom for comfort. Footpegs are rear set which helps grab the tank rather well. Seat comfort for rider and pillion is surprisingly good said who lent us the motorcycle for this road test purpose.

Powering the motorcycle is an all-new 250cc engine making 24.5 PS and 21.5 Nm of torque from a 2-valve, SOHC, air/oil-cooled engine. The motor is mated to a 5-speed smooth-shifting gearbox that operates with a very light clutch action. Assist slipper clutch does its job really well. The refinement is highest in its class. You can rev it all the way up and there are negligible vibrations on the handlebar, seats, and footpegs. Low and mid-range torque is where it excels as it does lack punch after 110 km/hr. The cruising speed is around 90-100 km/hr. The top speed is 145 km/hr on the speedo.

The soundtrack, be it intake or exhaust note is throaty and loud like the Pulsar series of the past. Throttle response is precise and power delivery is now linear. Fueling is sorted throughout the rev range and makes it easy to ride in the city. Fuel economy was recorded always around 34 km/l which is a very good number. Overall, there is nothing really to complain about as this simple and beautiful approach towards the engine makes us fall in love with the Pulsar all over again. Something that it is known for.

Dynamically, the front rake and trail are sharp, making it easy and quick to chuck into a corner. Composure while cornering is great thanks to a solid chassis setup that includes a perfect wheelbase. The excellent tires which gripped so well despite pushing on the track, on the road, confirm our motorcycle lender over the last 6000 km he did with it. Suspension is well tuned and the ground clearance makes things easier overgoing all sorts of things our roads can throw at it. Front forks provide good feedback than we expected from them. The rear suspension is adjustable and is mounted to the swingarm, not the chassis. Ride quality is truly impressive over all kinds of roads and that is a solid balance to achieve which shows the dedication of the engineering team.

The brakes are great too with a good bite at the lever if not excellent for a bike in this segment. High-speed stability is good too with a light or heavy rider, the suspension seems adept for more riders from the factory setup itself and that is good news. It can be a touch soft for very heavy riders, but a few clicks up, it will be great. Maneuvering at low speed requires no effort this time with the Pulsar twins. Overall, a brand new feel but the emotions and traditions of the Pulsar run in the background.

Bajaj Pulsar 250 Review, Verdict

Yes, the Pulsar 250 has impressed, there is no denying that. It isn’t in your face anymore, but it does things in the background that it used to. The Pulsar has evolved, becoming linear and diplomatic too. Yes, there is very little tech on offer be it the hardware or software, but that is what the Pulsar has been known for. Simplicity and brute power were the past. Simplicity and sophistication are the evolution and that is what you get with the Pulsar. I am, honestly not disappointed one bit. Do you want more? Wait for some time, there are more things planned, I hope so, that is. The newfound suspension and chassis balance, the comfort, the subtle touches all around, and the getting rid of all previous issues means the Pulsar just got better and that is what we waited for and Bajaj has delivered.