Key highlights:
- Brand-new 124.45cc air-cooled engine
- 12 PS power, 11 Nm torque
- 5-speed gearbox, idle start-stop
- Starts at INR 94,000 (ex-showroom)
The Pulsar family tree continues to branch out—and this time, it brings us the all-new Bajaj Pulsar N125, slotting itself into one of the most hotly contested segments in India. And while Bajaj already has the NS125 and the more conservative Pulsar 125, this one is a clean-sheet design. It’s youthful, urban, and comes in with just enough aggression to take on the TVS Raider and Hero Xtreme 125R.
We spent a couple of days riding the N125 and came away convinced: this one has the makings of a solid all-rounder in the entry-level sporty commuter segment.
Design: Fresh, Funky, Familiar
Visually, the N125 is a good-looking motorcycle. You get an LED headlamp (no DRL though), twin-strip LED tail-lamps, and neatly integrated body panels with bold tank shrouds and contrast rim stripes. The floating side panels, split seat, and underbelly exhaust are clear nods to the more powerful Pulsars in the N family.
Fit and finish is mostly solid, with a few plastic bits—like the exposed Allen bolts and footpeg mounts—that remind you this is a motorcycle built to a price. The USB charger near the tank, floating grab rail, and all-digital Bluetooth-compatible instrument console all make the package feel up-to-date.
Ergonomics: Neutral & Approachable
The Pulsar N125 has a seat height of 795 mm and weighs just 125 kg (kerb), making it accessible for shorter riders and beginners alike. The riding triangle is upright with mildly rear-set pegs, and the handlebar is positioned to avoid wrist strain. The seat itself could use better padding for long rides, but overall, it’s a very manageable and beginner-friendly setup.
Performance: Commuter Practicality with a Hint of Fun
Powering the bike is a new 124.45cc air-cooled, single-cylinder motor, producing 12 PS at 8,500 rpm and 11 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. It’s mated to a 5-speed gearbox and delivers its torque low in the rev range—with 80% of it available from just 2,500 rpm.
That means real-world usability is excellent. The bike pulls cleanly, feels peppy enough off the line, and while it won’t thrill experienced riders, it makes for a surprisingly enjoyable ride. Claimed 0–60 km/h time is 6 seconds, with a top speed of 97 km/h, and it actually sounds good while getting there.
Idle start-stop is present too, but the system isn’t as seamless as one would like—especially in stop-go traffic. Mileage is claimed at 60 km/l, and with a 9.5-litre tank, the bike can easily cover your weekly commute on a single tankful.
Ride & Handling: Built for the Daily Hustle
Bajaj has equipped the N125 with telescopic front forks and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock, both offering 125 mm of travel. The ride quality leans more towards comfort than sportiness, and that’s the right call. On broken roads or speed breakers, the bike feels composed, doesn’t bottom out, and remains stable even at higher speeds.
The chassis, Bajaj claims, offers the best weight-to-stiffness ratio in class. That translates to confident handling in the city, effortless lane changes, and a bike that’s easy to flick around traffic. It’s not razor-sharp, but that’s not what it’s trying to be either.
Braking & Tyres: Mostly Sorted, Could’ve Done Better
The N125 comes with a front disc and rear drum setup, with combi-braking (CBS) as standard. The bite is adequate, and the feedback is predictable, but we do feel that a single-channel ABS should’ve at least been offered on the top variant. The bike can hit 90+ km/h with ease, and for that kind of speed, ABS feels like a must-have, not a luxury.
Tyres are MRFs, and for daily use, they offer enough grip—be it while cornering or braking hard. The rear tyre on the top-spec variant is slightly wider too.
Final Thoughts: N for New, N for Necessary
The Bajaj Pulsar N125 isn’t just another Pulsar. It’s a smart, well-targeted commuter with just enough flair and functionality to win over college-goers, first-time riders, and even those looking to upgrade from a smaller displacement bike.
It’s not radical. It doesn’t promise anything outlandish. But it delivers exactly what the segment demands—efficiency, style, ease of use, and a bit of that Pulsar edge.
Should you buy one?
If you’re in the market for a sporty commuter that’s light, efficient, and stylish without breaking the bank—this one should be right on your radar.
Also read: BMW Motorrad CE 02 – First Ride Review