2009 Bajaj XCD 135 review, test ride

Although the XCD 135 DTS-Si is 10mm longer and taller than the 125, it still remains a motorcycle with petite proportions that the average Indian biker is certain to enjoy. Taller riders though will find themselves dwarfing the new bike. The XCD 135 has the standard upright ergonomics that are agreeable with the traffic-congested urban role it aims to satisfy. The bike deploys a tall handlebar that ensures it is easy to flick around in city traffic. We have always liked the XCD’s lightweight feel, thanks largely to the use of a thin-walled, box-section single downtube frame and swingarm, and the 135 doesn’t disappoint. Seventeen-inch rims further aid its light and responsive steering, with the wheelbase staying a constant at 1275mm. The XCD 135 uses conventional twin telescopic suspension in the front, while Bajaj has upgraded its rear shocks to gas-charged units. A relatively thick
100/ 90 section rear tyre is par for the course.

The XCD 135 enjoys a stable, straightline feel, and corners reasonably well. It turns in effortlessly and is a treat to ride through congested traffic. However, this is not a bike for spirited riding on highways; it also needs better tyres as the existing ones sometimes reach their limit well before the bike does.

Bajaj motorcycles are now known for their spine-pampering pliant ride quality, and the XCD 135 is no different. Although our test bike had a drum-equipped front brake, the factory does offer an optional 200mm front disc version that we recommend and is present on the bike photographed here. Brake feel was suitable on the 130mm drum- equipped test  model, which came to a halt from 60kph in a minimum of 19.11 metres.