2017 Bajaj Pulsar NS200 review, test ride

The gear shift is crisp and precise, with a clutch that is easy to use. The gearing is not too short, reducing the frequency with which you need to shift ratios. In sixth, going flat out on Bajaj’s Chakan test track, we managed to hit about 128kph on the speedo.

The twin-spar pressed-steel frame continues to lend the bike admirable composure on straights and around corners. A low centre of gravity and well-centred mass facilitates confident lean around corners, aided also by MRF Zapper tyres. The NS200 rides on telescopic forks up front and a gas-charged monoshock round the back, and though we only tried this bike on a smooth track, we know from experience that it generally rides well.

Braking duties are, commendably, handled by Bybre brakes chomping on a 280mm petal-type disc up front and a 230mm disc at the rear.

At Rs 96,453 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the NS200 is competitively priced and, with those refreshed looks, is likely to pick up right where it left off two years back.