Bajaj Discover 150F review, test ride

A quick ride on Bajaj’s latest, the Discover 150F and 150S tells us how they perform in the real world.

Published on Aug 12, 2014 02:44:00 PM

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Bajaj Discover 150F.

Both the 150F and S are brought to life with the help of an electric or kick-started, four-stroke, 144.8cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled and carburettor- equipped engine with an auto-choke to aid easy cold starts in any weather conditions. This is a twin spark (DTS-i technology) equipped engine with four valves per cylinder, producing a healthy 14.3bhp at 8,500rpm, while peak torque produced is 1.3kgm at 6,500rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a five-speed gearbox, shifting seamlessly with the help of a heel-and-toe shift lever in the all five-up pattern. Clutch feel is just right for our crowded urban riding conditions, positive and light, never a strain to use in stop and go situations.

The new Discover bikes accelerate willingly with brisk throttle response and excellent bottom end grunt. Open throttle, and the power delivery feels linear. The new engine, clearly a refined performer at all times, revs rising fast and the peppy powerplant never feels out of breath. Our acceleration tests confirm that the 150F and 150S are good enough for a 0-60kph sprint in 5.29 seconds, which positions the new Discovers ahead of some rivals in the 150cc class. The Discover 150F achieved a good true top speed of 112kph when pushed flat out on level surface. In city traffic, both bikes proved capable commuters, thanks to the engine that offers such a good torque spread that makes for stress free riding.

Held together by a semi-double cradle frame and a rectangular section swingarm, the 150F weighs in at 132kg, whereas the 150S has a kerb weight of 130kg. Telescopic forks are used in front, while the rear sees a gas-charged monoshock, both working effectively to offer good ride, soaking in poor roads and potholes nicely. As expected, commuter friendly riding ergonomics are the norm. The long, flattish seats offer good comfort.