Pulsar 200 NS for City Commuting: Is It Worth It?

The Pulsar 200 NS is a popular choice among motorcycle enthusiasts for city commutes. However, is it the best in its segment for daily urban riding? While it is a potent city commuter, certain aspects of the bike should be considered before making a purchase.

Is the Pulsar 200 NS Suitable for City Commuting?

The answer is yes, the Pulsar 200 NS is perfectly suitable for city commuting. Features such as its upright ergonomics and forward-set foot pegs ensure a comfortable riding position, making it an excellent choice for daily city rides. Here are some detailed insights to help you decide if this bike suits your needs.

Seat Height Considerations

One of the aspects to consider is the bike's seat height. The Pulsar 200 NS has a seat height of around 805-810 mm, which might not be the most optimal for everyone. For an average person standing at 5'5" to 5'8", it might take some time to get used to this height. If you are significantly shorter, you might find it too tall, and if you are taller, it may feel slightly low. This factor is important to ensure a comfortable and safe riding experience.

Weight and Handling

The kerb weight of the Pulsar 200 NS is approximately 152 kg, which can make it feel a bit heavy, especially in city traffic with heavy bumper-to-bumper traffic. The taller stance of the bike can contribute to making it feel even heavier. Despite this, the bike handles well and offers good stability at lower RPMs, making it a reliable choice for urban riding.

Engine Performance

The bottom end performance of the Pulsar 200 NS is not very impressive. Below 2500-3000 RPM, the bike feels a bit jerky and unrefined. However, once the engine reaches midrange, it pulls very nicely and offers strong top end acceleration. This balance means that while it might not be the most responsive at low speeds, the Pulsar 200 NS performs exceptionally well on highways and at higher speeds.

Mileage Concerns

Mileage is a crucial factor for city commuters. In city traffic, the Pulsar 200 NS is unlikely to return more than 30-32 kmpl, regardless of how well you maintain your bike. This is slightly below the expected mileage for a motorcycle of its class. However, with regular maintenance and careful driving habits, this can be optimized to some extent.

Pros and Cons of the Pulsar 200 NS for City Commuting

Despite these considerations, the Pulsar 200 NS still offers several advantages for urban riding. It provides a balanced performance, suitable for both city commutes and highway rides. The bike's good handling and responsive upper-end performance make it a reliable choice for riders who need to cover long distances daily.

Additionally, the Pulsar 200 NS is generally considered a good value for money segment. If you are a city commuter looking for a bike that is reliable, comfortable, and reasonably priced, the Pulsar 200 NS is worth considering. However, if you prioritize mileage in heavy city traffic, you might want to look at bikes that offer better fuel efficiency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Pulsar 200 NS is a suitable choice for city commuting, provided you are aware of its limitations, such as the taller seat height and relatively lower top-end performance. If you can overcome these minor issues, the Pulsar 200 NS can serve you well in various riding conditions. Just ensure you use a gel seat cover for a more comfortable ride, and enjoy the journey!

Happy riding!