Bajaj India finally took the wraps off the Pulsar RS 200, which, in essence, is the highly anticipated faired version of the Pulsar 200NS. After months of speculation and numerous spy shots the RS200, which is the first in the series of multiple brand new Pulsar models, the bike is finally available for purchase and you can read all about the details here. In the market it goes up against its natural competitors which include its Austrian cousin, the KTM RC200 and the Yamaha R15 and we have already compared the three bikes for you, but there is a another important question that need to be answered. Just how different is it from the 200NS because the Pulsar RS200 is essentially the fully faired version of the Pulsar 200NS naked streetbike and therefore, comparison is inevitable. Read our Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 vs Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS comparo to find out what changes Bajaj has made.
[box type=”shadow” ]Also See- Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 Launch Report[/box]
Design
From the looks of it its very hard to figure out that the RS200 is based on the 200NS. The front fairing gets dual projector headlamps along with LED pilot lights and although, it looks a bit overstyled the overall look of the bike gives it a very distinct identity and makes it look a bit bigger than it actually is. The fuel tank looks a lot like that of the KTM Duke series while the frame and the engine area hints at its 200NS origins. Adding to the sporty feel of the bike is the stubby exhaust and the split seats with integrated grab rails. Unlike the 200NS, the RS200’s engine hasn’t been left exposed and gets a black cowl to cover it up. Also, the LED tail lamps have not been integrated into the tail section and instead, are mounted on the number plate extension and, like the rest of the design, are little overdone. Overall, Bajaj has given the RS200 a very distinct look which should keep most buyers looking for a smaller capacity sports bike very happy.
The 200NS on the other hand gets a no fuss styling. The sharp headlamp is complimented very well by the two pilot lamps at the bottom. The muscular fuel tank flows nicely into the split seats which add to the sporty look of the bike. The tail section gets split grab rails and integrated LED tail lamps that are much neater than that of the RS200. Being a naked streetbike, the engine and the chain have been left exposed and finished almost completely in black. The exhaust is very hard to spot and has been neatly tucked away at the bottom. Bajaj seems to have gone with the Alien vs Predator look for the two bikes with the front of the 200NS resembling the Alien, while the front of the RS200 resembles the Predator.
[box type=”success” ]While we prefer the no fuss styling of the Pulsar 200NS, it really is a matter of personal taste. If you want a sports bike you opt for the RS200 and if its a street bike you want then go for the 200NS.[/box]
Technical Specifications
| Pulsar RS200 | Pulsar 200NS | |
| Engine Displacement | 199.5cc single cylinder, fuel injected | 199.5cc single cylinder |
| Power | 24.15bhp @ 9,750rpm | 23.5bhp @ 9,500rpm |
| Torque | 18.6Nm @ 8,000rpm | 18.3Nm @ 8,000rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Brakes | Dual disc with ABS | Dual disc |
Both bikes get essentially the same single cylinder 199.5cc engine, but the one powering the PulsarRS200 gets fuel injection and marginally more power, while the one powering the 200NS does without fuel injection. Rest of the tech specs are pretty much similar apart from the optional ABS offered on the RS200.
[box type=”success” ]The Pulsar RS200 gets a fuel injected version of the Pulsar 200NS’ engine for increased performance.[/box]
Price
| Pulsar RS200 | Pulsar 200NS | |
| Standard | INR 1,18,500 | INR 83,377 |
| With ABS | INR 1,30,268 | – |
The Pulsar RS200 costs around INR 35,000 more than its naked street bike sibling, the Pulsar 200NS. The version with ABS costs almost INR 10,000 than the standard non ABS version and almost INR 45,000 more than the 200NS. For the extra money you get added safety and fuel injection, aside from the sports bike look.
[box type=”success” ]The price difference between the Pulsar RS200 and Pulsar 200NS seems justified keeping in mind all the changes that have been made.[/box]
Verdict
The Pulsar RS200 makes for a great addition to the Puslar line-up and a value for money one too. Although, the styling might be bit too much for some, it still would appeal to many and will give you a proper sports bike feel was well. The Pulsar 200NS is already a very good product and one of the best bikes under INR 1 lakh currently on sale in India and, arguably, the better looking of the two.
[box type=”success” ]If sports bikes are your thing, get the Pulsar RS200. If you prefer naked street bikes, get the Pulsar 200NS.[/box]
So, what do you have to say about our Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 vs Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS spec sheet comparo? Do let us know by penning down your thoughts in the comments section below.
