Bajaj has recently launched the NS200 TFT, priced at Rs. 1.60 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Bajaj claims the NS200 TFT is now the most feature-loaded offering in the segment. Here are 5 areas where the NS200 TFT distinguishes itself from its predecessor and the competition.
Same engine, more performance
NS200 TFT retains the 199.5cc, liquid-cooled, 4-valve single-cylinder engine. However, Bajaj has managed to extract a bit more performance from the engine, which now makes 25bhp (previously 24bhp) at 9,750rpm and 18.7Nm of torque. Bajaj hasn’t specified exactly what has changed within the engine to find more oomph, but more power is always welcome. The NS200 now also comes with traction control, which should help tame the extra horsepower.
Bi-directional Quickshifter
The NS200 TFT now comes with Bajaj’s Sports Shift system, which is marketing terminology for a bi-directional quickshifter. The NS200 becomes the latest model within the Pulsar family to receive quickshifters in recent times, following the N250 SS and N160 SS. The six-speed gearbox and slip-and-assist clutch carry over unchanged from the previous model.
Bigger USD suspension
Bajaj has made the USD front fork setup on the NS200 TFT thicker, moving from a 33mm unit to a 37mm unit. The increased thickness should offer better rigidity and less flex under braking and cornering, which, in theory, should translate to better front-end feel while riding. A more hands-on experience with the NS200 TFT will help confirm this. Travel remains unchanged at 135mm for the front suspension, while the preload-adjustable rear monoshock, offering 120mm of travel, is also left untouched.
Ride-by-wire and new ride modes
NS200 TFT progresses from a cable-operated throttle body to an electronic throttle body (ETB) with ride-by-wire. Bajaj offers riders a choice of 5 riding modes: Rain, Road, Tour, Sport, and Off-road. Throttle response changes relative to the ride mode selected, with Rain and Road dampening the response, while Sport and Off-road make the response sharper. The modes can be cycled through a physical button or through the TFT instrument cluster.
5-inch TFT display and improved rider convenience
NS200 was shipped from the factory for over a decade with a semi-digital cluster, but now joins the extensive list of Bajaj’s Pulsar family to receive a 5-inch colour TFT display. The instrument cluster also comes with Google Maps mirroring and mobile phone connectivity with call/music control. Bajaj has also given the new NS200 TFT a Type-C charging port, hazard warning lights, and Panic Brake Alert, which flashes the hazard lights under harsh braking, hence warning other motorists behind.
The NS200 TFT is available in a choice of 3 colours, with bookings now open across India at authorised Bajaj dealerships as of 23 October.
