Bajaj Pulsar 135
Overview
Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS is the latest bike to join the Pulsar range, it features a 135cc DTS-i 4-valve engine. Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS
features the same headlight as seen in the XCD Sprint Concept shown at
the Auto Expo, 2008 in New Delhi. Bajaj Auto has refreshed the Pulsar
135 LS with rear tyre hugger in place of the full rear wheel mud guard
and the addition of O-ring chain with half chain covers. The O-ring
chain is less on maintenance with higher resistance to moisture and
dust. Like the elder siblings of Pulsar, Bajaj Auto has given the Speed
line treatment to the Pulsar 135. It is now available in blue, red and
black with speed line treatment. So does this bike stand out from the
crowd?
Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS Design and Style
The
bike’s style has been fully refreshed and updated with a few welcome
additions that help to make it a good-looking motorcycle. The 135 LS's
rear tyre hugger replaces the rear wheel full-size mudguard that was
previously installed. Bajaj have also added an O-ring chain plus
half-chain covers, which requires less maintenance and is better able to
resist dust and moisture. The speed lines found on the
sibling models released by Bajaj also appear on the 135 LS. The fuel
tank’s design closely mirrors that shown on the concept model of the XCD
Sprint, as do the bike’s newly designed air scoops and alloy wheels,
finished in black matte coating. The headlamp, LED tail light, split
seat, grab rails, high-stance rear and mud guard have all been refined
and updated to give the bike an athletic, speedy look that will appeal
to young drivers – and its lack of bulk also helps. Weighing in at
122kg, it’s far from the heavy end of the segment.
Instrument Console of Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS
The bike’s instrument console has also been revamped and updated, and is now a digital display
– which many drivers will welcome for the increased usability and
visibility of the controls. It includes an odometer, fuel level monitor,
neutral blinker, self-cancelling indicators and a low-battery meter.
Engine of Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS
According to Bajaj the 135cc DTS-i engine in Pulsar 135 LS is the world's first DTS-i engine to feature 4 valves. This engine generated maximum power of 13.3 Bhp at 9000 rpm with maximum torque of 11.4 Nm at 7500 rpm.
It has been designed for better performance than regular a 2-Valve
engine. Combined with the revolutionary DTS-i (Digital Twin
Spark-ignition) technology which maximizes combustion to deliver
enhanced power and superior mileage with low emissions, the Pulsar 135
LS has one of the most efficient production engines ever.
Acceleration and Top Speed
The
bike’s four valves are smaller and more lightweight, enabling the bike
to achieve higher revs with less effort – and the result is that it can
hit an impressive 10,500 rpm. The bike’s TRICS-3 and Intelligent CDI
systems give vastly improved ignition timing at a range of engine RPMs,
giving a smoother transmission of power. The bike’s
patented ExhausTEC technology (Torque Expansion Chamber) gives higher
pickup at lower rpms, removing the need to shift gears frequently as you
accelerate. Even with heavy loads, the bike feels fast. It can make the
jump from 0 to 60 kmph in 5.1 seconds, which is respectable for a 135cc
engine, but unsurprising given its superior weight to power ratio:
110.7 Ps per ton. It has a top speed of 120 kmph.
Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS Mileage
The bike’s fuel economy is claimed to be among the best offered by
any bike on the market, thanks to the DTSi system coupled with the
four-valve setup. On average, the bike will manage 68.1 km per litre, as certified by the ARAI –
a very impressive figure, but unsurprising given the effort devoted to
making the bike as light and as powerful as possible. Bajaj claim that
the Pulsar 135LS has one of the most efficient production engines of any
performance motorcycle, which would certainly make it an appealing
prospect for many young drivers who don’t have a lot of money to throw
around. The fuel tank is capable of holding 8 litres.
Comfort While Driving Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS
The Pulsar 135 is comfortable enough, as long as you don’t plan to
ride it for hours – the seat is a little too unyielding and
uncomfortable for longer trips. However, the updated grab rail is
undeniably more convenient, and some thought has gone into making the
seat more ergonomically friendly.
Safety Features
The bike’s bright and powerful headlight is the same
as that shown on the XCD Sprint concept model that was demonstrated at
2008’s New Delhi Auto Expo. It includes twin pilot lamps powered on a DC
circuit that ensures a constant and powerful beam of light at all
speeds of travel.
Suspension and Brakes
Bajaj
bikes are usually well fitted with capable suspension suited to the
city environment, and this motorcycle is no exception. Its telescopic
front-fork suspension, featuring anti-friction bushes, and nitrox-assisted triple-rated spring rear suspension,
provide good riding comfort, absorbing most shocks from potholes and
bumpy surfaces – but take the bike off-road and the driving experience
is pretty unpleasant, with plenty of feedback to the handlebar.
The bike’s 240mm front disc brake
with full ventilation enables it to brake quickly and safely, even from
top speeds. The bike’s brakes always feel controlled and stable, even
when conditions are wet or when running on slippery roads. It also
features a standard 130 mm drum brake at the rear.
Ride and Handling
One of the Pulsar’s best features is its handling: it’s undoubtedly
one of the nimblest and most sporty bikes Bajaj has yet released. It
corners very well, remaining stable at all times, and it feels light,
able to pass through narrow spaces in tight traffic
Tyre Size
The bike boasts six-spoke alloy wheels. The front wheel is a 2.75 x 17”, and the rear is a 100/90 x 17”. The bike’s tubeless tyres are generally strong and sturdy, coping well with wet and dry conditions.
Shades
Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS is available in three speed line shades: Cocktail Wine Red, Midnight Black and Plasma Blue.
Variants
The Pulsar 135 comes in a single standard variant.
Distinctive Features of Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS
The bike’s clip-on handlebar features
a pass switch, engine kill switch and electric jump-start mechanism.
The bike also features a maintenance free battery, meaning that you
won’t have to pay to get the battery serviced along with the other
parts.
Reasons to Buy and Value for Money
The bike is powerful, slickly designed and comfortable to ride, with great fuel economy
and some nice additional extras. The bike’s excellent specs and strong
performance mean that it represents excellent value for money,
particularly due to its outstanding fuel economy, which will help to
keep running costs low. This bike is a worthy addition to Bajaj’s
updated line, thanks to its high-performance engine and great looks.
