Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar 125
9.5 pts
Unweighted: 8 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
YAMAHA R15 S
19.5 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air‑cooled | Liquid-Cooled |
| Displacement | 124.4 cc | 155 CC |
| Engine Type | 4-Stroke, 2-Valve, Twin Spark BSVI Compliant Engine | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve |
| Power | 8.68 kW (11.8 PS) @ 8500 rpm | 13.5kW(18.4PS)/10000 RPM |
| Torque | 10.8 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 14.2 Nm (1.4 kgfm) @7,500 RPM |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 L | 11 L |
| Mileage | 51.46 Kmpl | 40 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | Split: 144 / Single: 146 | 142 |
| Seat Height | 795 | 815 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | — | Dual channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 240 mm Disc | Disc brake (282 mm) |
| Front Suspension | 30mm Telescopic forks | Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum | Disc brake (220 mm) |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Hydraulic Suspension | Monocross (link suspension) |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 80/100 × 17 Tubeless | 100/80-17M/C 52P |
| Rear Tyre | 100/90 × 17 Tubeless | 140/70R17M/C 66H |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | 12 V HS1 35/35 W | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | DC, 12V, 4Ah VRLA | 12 V, 4.0 Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/black-2.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/new-matte-black.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cyan.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/racing-blue-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/red-3.avif | — |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/gold.avif | — |
| Cluster | Fully Digital LCD | Digital |
| Color Options | Racing Red Tan Beige | #A50000, #C7A27C Black Race Red | #111111, #B00000 Black Cyan Blue | #111111, #00A3C7 Black Dark Grey | #111111, #5C6166 Black Gold | #111111, #B08D57 | Racing Blue | #1B4FAF Matte Black | #1A1A1C Matte Black (New) | #1A1A1C, #C62828 |
| Cons | The feature list feels basic compared to some newer 125cc motorcycles that offer fully digital displays, Bluetooth connectivity, and additional rider information. Engine vibrations become noticeable at higher RPMs and prolonged highway speeds. The motorcycle carries more weight than several competitors in the segment, which can make low-speed maneuvering feel slightly heavier. Rear suspension comfort can feel firm on badly broken roads, especially when riding solo. The design has evolved gradually over the years, so some buyers may find it less modern than newer rivals. Highway performance remains limited by the engine capacity, particularly when riding with a pillion or luggage at higher speeds. Lighting and instrumentation remain relatively simple on lower variants. | Aggressive Riding Position for Daily Commuting – Although more comfortable than the R15 V4 due to its single-piece seat, the clip-on handlebars and sporty ergonomics can still become tiring in heavy traffic and during longer city rides. Misses Out on USD Front Forks – The R15S uses conventional telescopic front forks, whereas the R15 V4 and R15M come equipped with upside-down forks that offer a more premium feel and appearance. No Traction Control System – Unlike the higher-spec R15 V4 and R15M variants, the R15S does not offer traction control. No Quickshifter – Riders do not get the clutchless upshift functionality available on the R15M and selected R15 V4 variants. Basic Instrument Cluster Compared to Newer Rivals – The display provides essential information but lacks the advanced connectivity and modern interface offered by some competitors. Performance Requires Higher RPMs – The VVA engine performs best when revved, meaning riders often need to shift gears frequently to access its strongest performance. |
| Detailed Overview | The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is a motorcycle that combines the practicality of a commuter bike with styling elements that are usually associated with larger motorcycles. It is designed for riders who want a motorcycle for daily transportation but also prefer a sportier appearance and a slightly more engaging riding experience than a traditional commuter model. The bike carries the familiar Pulsar design language, including a muscular fuel tank, sporty graphics, split grab rails on selected variants, and body panels that give it a larger road presence than many motorcycles in the 125cc category. Power comes from a 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled DTS-i engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine produces around 11.8 PS of power and 10.8 Nm of torque. The tuning focuses on providing a balance between fuel efficiency and usable performance. In city traffic, the motorcycle feels responsive enough for daily commuting, while the engine also has sufficient power for occasional highway rides. The 5-speed transmission helps maintain smoother engine operation at moderate cruising speeds and allows the rider to make better use of the available power across different road conditions. Fuel efficiency is one of the important aspects of the Pulsar 125. Under normal riding conditions, real-world mileage generally ranges between 50 and 60 km/l, depending on traffic, riding style, road conditions, and maintenance. The motorcycle is equipped with an 11.5-litre fuel tank, which provides a useful riding range and reduces the need for frequent fuel stops during daily commuting. The riding position is designed to balance comfort and control. The handlebar is positioned in a way that allows a slightly sporty feel without putting excessive pressure on the rider’s wrists. The footpegs and seat placement create a natural riding posture that works well for city riding as well as longer daily commutes. The seat is wide enough for both rider and pillion, and the overall ergonomics are intended to support regular use in different riding environments. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. The setup is tuned to absorb common road imperfections such as potholes, speed breakers, and uneven surfaces. This allows the motorcycle to remain comfortable during everyday riding while also maintaining stability on smoother roads. The chassis provides predictable handling characteristics, making the bike easy to maneuver in traffic and around corners at normal riding speeds. Braking performance depends on the variant selected. Higher variants are equipped with a front disc brake, while other versions use drum brakes. All variants use Combined Braking System (CBS), which helps distribute braking force between the front and rear wheels during braking. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, which add convenience during punctures and routine maintenance. The instrument cluster combines analogue and digital elements. Riders can view information such as speed, fuel level, odometer readings, and other basic ride-related data. The layout remains straightforward and easy to read. Unlike some newer motorcycles in the segment, the Pulsar 125 does not focus heavily on connected technology or smartphone integration. The overall character of the motorcycle is shaped by its combination of commuter-friendly mechanics, sporty styling, practical ergonomics, and everyday usability. Its engine, suspension, braking system, and riding position are designed to handle regular commuting requirements while maintaining the visual identity associated with the Pulsar series. | The Yamaha R15S is aimed at riders who like the sharp styling and sporty character of the R15 range but want something a little more practical for everyday use. While it shares most of its mechanical components with the R15 V4, the biggest difference is the single-piece seat, which offers more room for both the rider and pillion. As a result, the R15S sits in an interesting space where it carries the DNA of a small supersport motorcycle while remaining usable for daily commuting. Power comes from Yamaha’s familiar 155cc liquid-cooled engine, which has been a key part of the R15 lineup for several years. The motor uses Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), a technology designed to maintain performance across different engine speeds. In normal city riding, the motorcycle feels smooth and manageable, but as the revs climb, the engine develops a more energetic character. The six-speed gearbox works alongside an assist and slipper clutch, which keeps clutch effort light in traffic and helps make downshifts feel smoother when riding enthusiastically. One of the strongest aspects of the R15S is its chassis. The motorcycle is built around Yamaha’s Deltabox frame, a setup that has long been associated with the company’s performance-oriented motorcycles. On the road, this translates into a motorcycle that feels stable when cornering and predictable when changing direction. Whether navigating through city traffic or riding on a winding road, the bike responds accurately to rider inputs without feeling nervous or heavy. The suspension setup consists of telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock. Unlike the R15 V4, the R15S does not use upside-down forks, but the overall setup is tuned to provide a balance between everyday usability and sporty handling. The ride quality tends to feel firm rather than plush, which suits the motorcycle’s sporty nature but also means rough roads can be felt more clearly through the seat and handlebars. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends, supported by dual-channel ABS. This allows both wheels to benefit from anti-lock braking intervention during sudden braking situations. The braking performance matches the motorcycle’s overall character, offering a controlled and confidence-inspiring feel without requiring excessive effort from the rider. Visually, the R15S continues to look every bit like a member of Yamaha’s R-series family. The full fairing, sharp bodywork, sculpted fuel tank, and aggressive front-end design give it the appearance of a larger supersport motorcycle. LED lighting at both ends further adds to the modern look, while the fully digital instrument console provides information such as speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip details in a clean layout. With a kerb weight of around 142 kg and a seat height of 815 mm, the R15S remains approachable for a wide range of riders. The 11-litre fuel tank offers a useful balance between range and overall weight, making the motorcycle suitable for both daily travel and occasional weekend rides. Rather than being defined by outright performance numbers, the Yamaha R15S is a motorcycle whose character comes from its combination of a high-revving engine, precise handling, sporty ergonomics, and a more accommodating seat layout. It takes the core ingredients of the R15 platform and presents them in a package that feels slightly more practical without moving away from its sportbike roots. |
| Expert Review | he Bajaj Pulsar 125 takes the familiar Pulsar formula and adapts it for riders looking for everyday practicality with a slightly sportier feel than a conventional commuter bike. The 124.4cc engine delivers smooth low and mid-range performance, which suits city traffic and routine commuting, while still providing enough response for occasional highway use. What stands out most is how the motorcycle carries the visual proportions and road presence of a larger bike despite belonging to the 125cc category. The riding posture feels natural for daily use, and the suspension setup is tuned to balance comfort and stability across different road conditions. The motorcycle does not focus heavily on modern electronics or premium features, instead relying on straightforward mechanical simplicity and familiar riding characteristics. Engine refinement remains acceptable for regular use, though vibrations become more noticeable as speeds increase. The overall package is centered around everyday usability, balanced performance, and the established character associated with the Pulsar name., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The Yamaha R15S occupies an interesting position within Yamaha's sportbike lineup because it combines the mechanical foundation of the R15 family with a slightly more practical approach to everyday riding. The 155cc VVA engine remains the centerpiece of the experience, delivering its performance in a manner that encourages riders to explore the upper reaches of the rev range while still offering enough flexibility for routine commuting. The motorcycle feels composed when leaned into corners, and the Deltabox frame continues to provide the sense of precision that has long been associated with the R15 platform. Compared with the R15 V4 and R15M, the single-piece seat improves day-to-day usability and pillion accommodation, though the riding posture still reflects the motorcycle's supersport origins. On uneven roads, the suspension setup prioritizes stability and control over outright softness, which means sharper bumps can be felt through the chassis. The overall package focuses more on rider engagement, chassis balance, and sport-oriented dynamics than on advanced electronics or touring comfort, resulting in a riding experience that remains closely aligned with the R-series identity., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What engine does the Bajaj Pulsar 125 use? A: It is powered by a 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, DTS-i engine. Q: How much power does the Pulsar 125 produce? A: The engine produces approximately 11.8 PS of power and 10.8 Nm of torque. Q: What mileage does the Bajaj Pulsar 125 deliver? A: Real-world fuel efficiency generally ranges between 50–60 km/l depending on riding conditions and maintenance. Q: What is the top speed of the Pulsar 125? A: The motorcycle can reach an approximate top speed of around 100–105 km/h. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 125 suitable for highway riding? A: Yes, it can handle occasional highway rides comfortably, although it is primarily designed for city commuting and everyday transportation. Q: Does the Pulsar 125 have a front disc brake? A: Yes, higher variants are equipped with a front disc brake, while some variants are available with drum brakes. Q: Does the Bajaj Pulsar 125 have ABS? A: No, the Pulsar 125 does not offer ABS. It uses CBS (Combined Braking System). Q: What suspension setup does the Pulsar 125 use? A: The motorcycle uses telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Pulsar 125? A: The motorcycle comes with a 11.5-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Bajaj Pulsar 125? A: Depending on the variant, kerb weight is approximately 140–142 kg. Q: Does the Pulsar 125 use tubeless tyres? A: Yes, all variants come equipped with tubeless tyres. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 125 beginner-friendly? A: Yes, the motorcycle offers predictable power delivery, comfortable ergonomics, and manageable performance, making it suitable for new riders. Q: Does the Pulsar 125 have Bluetooth connectivity? A: No, the standard Pulsar 125 does not offer Bluetooth connectivity or smartphone integration. Q: What type of instrument cluster does the Pulsar 125 get? A: The motorcycle uses a semi-digital instrument cluster with an analogue tachometer and digital information display. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 125 a commuter motorcycle or a sports bike? A: The Pulsar 125 is generally classified as a sporty commuter motorcycle. It combines commuter-bike practicality with styling and riding characteristics inspired by larger Pulsar models. | Q: Is the Yamaha R15S good for daily use? A: Yes, the R15S is often chosen by riders who want a sportbike for everyday commuting. The single-piece seat makes it more practical than the R15 V4, although the riding position is still sport-oriented. Q: What is the real mileage of the Yamaha R15S? A: Most owners report mileage figures between 40 km/l and 50 km/l, depending on traffic conditions, riding style, and maintenance. Q: What is the top speed of the Yamaha R15S? A: Under suitable conditions, the Yamaha R15S can reach around 135–140 km/h. Q: Does the Yamaha R15S have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes, the Yamaha R15S comes equipped with dual-channel ABS as standard. Q: Does the Yamaha R15S have traction control? A: No, traction control is not available on the R15S. Q: Does the Yamaha R15S get a quickshifter? A: No, the R15S does not come with a quickshifter. This feature is available on the R15M and selected R15 V4 variants. Q: What is the seat height of the Yamaha R15S? A: The seat height is approximately 815 mm, which is the same as the R15 V4. Q: Is the Yamaha R15S comfortable for long rides? A: It is more comfortable than the R15 V4 because of its single-piece seat, but the sporty riding posture can still become tiring during very long journeys. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Yamaha R15S? A: The motorcycle comes with an 11-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Yamaha R15S? A: The Yamaha R15S has a kerb weight of approximately 142 kg. Q: What is the difference between Yamaha R15S and Yamaha R15 V4? A: The R15S uses a single-piece seat and conventional telescopic forks, while the R15 V4 gets split seats, USD front forks, traction control, Bluetooth connectivity, and additional premium features depending on the variant. Q: Which is better for daily use, Yamaha R15S or Yamaha R15 V4? A: Riders who prioritize comfort often prefer the R15S because of its single-piece seat, while the R15 V4 offers more features and a sportier overall package. Q: Is the Yamaha R15S suitable for beginners? A: Yes, many new riders start with the R15S because the engine is manageable, the bike is lightweight, and the handling is predictable. Q: Does the Yamaha R15S have VVA technology? A: Yes, the R15S uses Yamaha's Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system, which helps maintain performance across different engine speeds. Q: Is the Yamaha R15S good for highway riding? A: The motorcycle is capable of highway cruising, and the fairing provides useful wind protection. However, the committed riding position may not suit every rider on very long trips. Q: Does the Yamaha R15S have an assist and slipper clutch? A: Yes, the Yamaha R15S comes equipped with an assist and slipper clutch as standard. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Seat | 92170 Split Seat | 94229 Neon Single Seat | 107675 | | 155600 |
| Pros | The 124.4cc engine offers stronger performance than most basic commuter motorcycles, making overtakes and daily city riding feel easier without significantly affecting fuel efficiency. The motorcycle retains the familiar Pulsar design language, giving it a larger and more muscular appearance than many other bikes in the 125cc segment. Ride quality is well balanced for everyday use. The suspension setup handles potholes, speed breakers, and uneven roads reasonably well while maintaining stability at regular commuting speeds. The riding position strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness. The handlebar and footpeg placement allow comfortable daily commuting without feeling overly upright or aggressive. Fuel efficiency remains practical for daily use, with real-world mileage generally ranging between 50–60 km/l depending on riding conditions. The front disc brake variant provides better stopping confidence than many entry-level commuter motorcycles that rely entirely on drum brakes. Spare parts availability, service network reach, and maintenance costs are generally manageable due to the widespread presence of the Pulsar lineup across India. The motorcycle feels stable at moderate highway speeds compared to many lightweight commuter-focused alternatives. | Refined 155cc VVA Engine – The liquid-cooled engine with Variable Valve Actuation delivers smooth performance across a wide rev range and remains one of the most technologically advanced engines in the segment. Sportbike-Inspired Handling – The Deltabox frame provides excellent chassis balance and precise handling, especially while cornering and changing direction. More Comfortable Than the R15 V4 – Unlike the split-seat setup on the R15 V4, the R15S uses a single-piece seat that offers improved comfort for both rider and pillion. Strong Highway Stability – The aerodynamic fairing and well-sorted chassis help the motorcycle remain composed at higher speeds. Good Fuel Efficiency – Despite its sporty nature, the engine is capable of delivering fuel economy figures that remain competitive in the 150cc category. Aggressive R-Series Styling – The design closely resembles Yamaha's larger supersport motorcycles, giving the bike a premium sportbike appearance. Assist and Slipper Clutch – This reduces clutch effort and helps improve stability during downshifts. Lightweight and Manageable – The motorcycle remains easy to handle in urban traffic while still offering a sporty riding feel. LED Headlamp and Tail Lamp – The LED lighting setup contributes to visibility and modern styling. |
| Starter | Electric & Kick | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 5‑speed | Constant mesh, 6-speed |
