Bajaj Pulsar RS 200

The Bajaj Pulsar RS200 sports a bold and aggressive design, which might feel overdone to some. The bike’s dual-projector headlamps and sharp, angular bodywork immediately stand out. The front end of the RS200 features a peculiar snout-like design, complemented by dual-projector headlamps that give it a distinctive appearance. The rear end has a unique tail-light design, but the overall aesthetics may come across as polarizing.

One of the key visual upgrades compared to the 200NS is the fully-faired bodywork, which adds to the RS200’s aerodynamic profile, though it also increases the bike’s weight by about 15-20 kg. Despite the added weight, the bike maintains a decent power-to-weight ratio, thanks to the peppy engine and overall design​.

The RS200 retains the 199.5cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine from the 200NS but gains fuel injection, which improves throttle response. With 24.16 bhp at 9,750 rpm and 18.6 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm, the RS200 has a slight performance edge over the 200NS. The 6-speed gearbox works well with the engine, allowing for smooth shifts and a lively riding experience​.

While the engine remains similar in construction to the NS200, the fuel injection system makes the RS200 feel crisper in terms of throttle response, especially in city traffic. The bike can reach a top speed of around 140-145 km/h, with solid acceleration across the mid-range. However, at higher revs, vibrations can be felt through the seat and handlebars, especially in the lower gears​

The Bajaj Pulsar RS200 is equipped with telescopic front forks and a monoshock at the rear, which provide a comfortable ride on city roads but feel slightly soft for aggressive cornering or track use. The default suspension setup is designed more for everyday riding comfort than outright sporty handling, which might leave some riders wanting firmer settings for better control in high-speed corners​.

Around corners, the RS200 feels stable, though not as sharp or aggressive as competitors like the KTM RC200 or Yamaha R15. The bike’s MRF tires offer decent grip, and the single-channel ABS on the front wheel ensures effective braking in emergency situations. The rear brake, however, can be prone to sliding under heavy braking, which may be unnerving for some riders

The seating position on the Pulsar RS200 is more upright than you’d expect from a fully-faired sportbike, which adds to the comfort during longer rides. 

The handlebar-seat-footpeg triangle is designed to be more relaxed, making it less aggressive than track-focused bikes. The seat is well-padded, offering a comfortable riding posture for both city commuting and highway touring​.

The Bajaj Pulsar RS200 comes with a semi-digital instrument cluster that provides basic information like speed, trip meters, and fuel level. However, in a segment where competitors like the Yamaha R15 offer fully digital displays, the RS200’s setup feels slightly dated.

The bike is available in both ABS and non-ABS variants, with the single-channel ABS equipped on the front wheel. The ABS is effective during hard braking, providing confidence in emergency situations, though the rear braking could be better managed​

The Pulsar RS200 delivers a mileage of around 35-40 kmpl, depending on riding conditions. This makes it reasonably fuel-efficient for a performance-oriented sportbike, and the 13-liter fuel tank provides a decent range for both city and highway riding​.

Priced at around ₹1.71 lakh (ex-showroom), the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 offers a compelling balance of performance, styling, and comfort. It’s an excellent entry-point into the sportbike segment, offering good features for its price. However, those looking for more refined handling or sharper performance might prefer competitors like the KTM RC200 or the Yamaha R15​.

Bajaj’s extensive service network ensures that RS200 owners will have access to affordable and convenient maintenance services. With affordable service costs and widespread availability of spare parts, the RS200 is a practical choice for long-term ownership​.

The Bajaj Pulsar RS200 competes with bikes like the KTM RC200, Yamaha R15, and Honda CBR 150R. While the KTM RC200 offers sharper handling and more outright performance, the RS200 excels in comfort and practicality. The Yamaha R15 offers a more refined and aggressive track experience, but the RS200 is ideal for riders seeking a balance between performance and everyday usability​.

The Bajaj Pulsar RS200 continues to be a solid choice for riders looking for a fully-faired sportbike that balances performance, comfort, and everyday usability. While it may not have the raw track-focused aggression of some of its competitors, it offers a more accessible and practical riding experience. If you’re looking for a stylish sportbike that performs well in various riding conditions, the RS200 is worth considering​.