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 2017 treatment to the Pulsar 135. It is now available in new shades with all-new graphics and the engine has also been updated the meet the BSIV emission norms. So does this bike stand out from the crowd?

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 2017 Pulsar 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

2017 Pulsar 135’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 and Gearbox

According to Bajaj the 135cc DTS-i engine in Pulsar 135 LS is the world's first DTS-i engine to feature4 valves. This engine generated maximum power of13.3 Bhp at 9000 rpm with maximum torque of11.4 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

2017 Pulsar 135’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.

Mileage

2017 Pulsar 135’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 manage68.1 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

The 2017 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’s240mm 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 2017 Pulsar 135 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

2017 Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS is available in 2 new shades: Laser Black and Nuclear Blue.

Reasons to Buy and Value for Money

The 2017 Pulsar 135 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.