Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar 150
12.5 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM RC 390
16.5 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air-cooled | Liquid cooling. Curved radiator with fans for better heat management |
| Displacement | 149.50 cc | 373.27 cc |
| Engine Type | 4‑Stroke, 2‑Valve, Twin Spark DTS-i FI | Single Cylinder, Liquid Cooled, DOHC, FI Engine |
| Power | 10.3 kW (14 PS) @ 8,500 rpm | 43.5 PS @ 9000 rpm |
| Torque | 13.25 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 37 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 L (including 3.2 L reserve) | 13.7 L |
| Mileage | 47.5 Kmpl | 29 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 148 (SD) / 150 (TD) | 172 |
| Seat Height | 785 | 835 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Single-channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 280 mm Disc / 260 mm Disc | 320 mm Disc with Radially mounted calliper |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Telescopic fork / 31 mm Telescopic fork | WP APEX USD forks, 43 mm diameter |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc / 130 mm Drum | 230 mm Disc with Floating calliper |
| Rear Suspension | Twin gas-filled shocks with canister | WP APEX Monoshock, 10 step adjustable |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 80/100-17 (SD) / 90/90-17 (TD), Tubeless | 110/70 - 17 |
| Rear Tyre | 100/90-17 (SD) / 120/80-17 (TD), Tubeless | 150/60 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | 35/35 W with 2 pilot lamps, With AHO | LED Headlamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | DC, 12V, 4Ah VRLA | 12 V, 8 AH MF battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/BLue-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GP-Edition-Blue.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Green.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Orange.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Gold-1.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GP-Edition-Orange.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-5.avif | — |
| Cluster | Analog-digital (rev counter + LCD display) | TFT Multifunction display |
| Color Options | Black Gold | #111111, #B08D57 Ebony Black Cherry Red | #111111, #9B111E Ebony Black Ink Blue | #111111, #2456A6 Ebony Black Dark Grey | #111111, #5C6166 Bottle Green with Copper Beige | #355E3B, #B87333 | Orange | #FF5A00 Blue | #1F3F8B GP Edition Blue | #1F3F8B, #FF5A00 GP Edition Orange | #FF5A00, #1F3F8B |
| Cons | The overall design, while still recognizable, does not feel as modern as some newer motorcycles in the 150cc category. The feature list is relatively basic compared to rivals that offer full digital displays, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation support, and riding modes. Engine vibrations become noticeable at higher RPMs and sustained highway speeds. The motorcycle is heavier than some of its competitors, which can make low-speed maneuvering feel slightly less effortless. The rear suspension can feel firm on badly broken roads, especially when riding solo. Fuel efficiency is respectable but not class-leading compared to newer commuter-focused alternatives. The instrument cluster design feels dated alongside newer fully digital setups available in the market. | Heat Buildup: The single-cylinder engine can produce noticeable heat in heavy traffic or slow-moving city rides. Harsh Ride at Low Speeds: Stiff sport suspension can make daily commuting rough on bumpy or uneven roads. Aggressive Riding Posture: The forward-leaning position can be fatiguing for longer rides or casual commuting. Fuel Efficiency: The bike’s performance comes at a cost — real-world mileage is moderate when ridden aggressively. Maintenance Costs: Premium parts and periodic services (especially for the high-performance components) can be more expensive compared to typical middleweight bikes. Limited Comfort for Pillion: The rear seat is compact and not very comfortable for longer pillion rides. |
| Detailed Overview | Few motorcycles in India have remained in production for as long as the Bajaj Pulsar 150. Over the years, the motorcycle has gone through multiple updates, but its basic formula has largely stayed the same. It sits in the space between a traditional commuter bike and a fully performance-oriented motorcycle, offering enough power for daily riding while maintaining the practicality expected from an everyday machine. Even today, many riders encounter the Pulsar 150 as a daily commuter, a college motorcycle, a highway companion, or simply a long-term ownership choice that continues to serve routine transportation needs. At the heart of the motorcycle is a 149.5cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine equipped with fuel injection. The engine produces around 14 PS of power and 13.25 Nm of torque, figures that place it comfortably within the 150cc category. In everyday riding conditions, the power delivery feels linear and predictable. The motorcycle does not demand constant gear changes in traffic and has enough low-end and mid-range performance to handle urban commuting without feeling strained. A 5-speed gearbox manages power delivery, helping the engine remain reasonably relaxed during city rides as well as moderate highway cruising. One reason the Pulsar 150 has remained popular for so long is its riding position. Instead of adopting an aggressively sporty stance, the motorcycle uses a layout that feels comfortable for extended periods on the road. The handlebar position allows riders to sit naturally, while the footpeg placement creates a balance between comfort and control. This setup works equally well for daily office commutes, weekend rides, and occasional longer journeys. The seat provides adequate space for both rider and pillion, and the overall ergonomics are designed around regular use rather than extreme riding conditions. The motorcycle rides on a suspension setup consisting of telescopic front forks and twin gas-charged rear shock absorbers. The tuning focuses on managing typical Indian road conditions such as potholes, expansion joints, and speed breakers. While the suspension is not designed for aggressive cornering, it contributes to a stable and predictable riding experience during everyday use. The chassis itself has always been one of the defining characteristics of the Pulsar series, offering a planted feel at normal cruising speeds and confidence during lane changes or sweeping bends. Braking performance varies depending on the variant. Buyers can find versions equipped with a front disc brake and rear drum brake, while some variants feature disc brakes at both ends. Single-channel ABS is provided to improve braking stability during sudden stops. Alloy wheels and tubeless tyres are part of the package, adding convenience and reducing the inconvenience associated with punctures. Visually, the Pulsar 150 retains many design elements that have become familiar over the years. The muscular fuel tank, wolf-eyed headlamp styling, sporty graphics, and compact tail section continue to shape its appearance. While newer motorcycles may feature more aggressive styling themes, the Pulsar 150 maintains a design language that is immediately recognizable on Indian roads. The instrument console follows a semi-digital layout, combining an analogue tachometer with a digital display that shows information such as speed, fuel level, odometer readings, and trip details. The feature list remains relatively straightforward, focusing on essential riding information rather than advanced connectivity functions. With a 15-litre fuel tank, fuel-injected engine, comfortable ergonomics, and a well-established mechanical setup, the Bajaj Pulsar 150 continues to occupy a position that blends commuter practicality with the characteristics of a traditional sport commuter motorcycle. | The KTM RC 390 is a fully faired motorcycle built around a 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. This engine produces close to 43 bhp and around 37 Nm of torque, and it is paired with a six-speed gearbox. The power delivery is spread across the rev range, with noticeable strength in the mid and top end, which becomes useful during highway riding and quick overtakes. The bike uses a ride-by-wire throttle system, which manages throttle input electronically, and it also comes with a slipper clutch that helps reduce sudden rear wheel movement during aggressive downshifts. The motorcycle is based on a steel trellis frame, which is designed to keep the weight low while maintaining structural strength. It is equipped with upside-down front forks from WP and a rear monoshock, both of which are tuned to handle higher speeds and cornering stability. The braking setup includes a large front disc and a rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS. The ABS system also offers a Supermoto mode, which allows the rear ABS to be disengaged while keeping the front active. The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres. In terms of design, the RC 390 features a fully faired body with a front section that includes a single LED headlamp and integrated indicators. The fairing is shaped to improve airflow around the rider and the engine area. The windscreen is slightly raised to provide some level of wind protection at higher speeds. The seat is split into two sections, with a slightly elevated rear portion, and the fuel tank is shaped to allow the rider to grip it while riding. The overall layout gives the bike a compact and focused appearance. The feature list includes a TFT display that shows information such as speed, gear position, fuel level, and trip data. It also supports smartphone connectivity for basic functions. Other electronic features include traction control, which helps manage wheel spin under acceleration. The bike has a fuel tank capacity of around 13.7 litres, and the kerb weight is approximately 172 kg. The seat height is around 824 mm, which affects how easily riders can place their feet on the ground. The riding position is set up with clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs, which creates a forward-leaning posture. This setup changes how the rider interacts with the bike, especially during longer rides or slow-moving traffic. Overall, the KTM RC 390 combines its engine, chassis, and electronic features into a package that is designed to deliver a certain type of riding experience, defined largely by its specifications and mechanical setup. |
| Expert Review | The Bajaj Pulsar 150 has built its reputation around offering a mix of practicality and performance without leaning too heavily toward either side. Even today, the motorcycle feels like it was designed to handle multiple roles rather than specialize in one. In city traffic, the engine responds smoothly and has enough low-end torque to make daily commuting straightforward. Once on open roads, the extra displacement and stable chassis help it maintain highway speeds more comfortably than smaller commuter motorcycles. The riding position strikes a middle ground between sporty and relaxed, which explains why many riders use it for everything from office commutes to weekend rides. While the motorcycle does not feature the latest electronics or the most modern instrument console in the segment, its mechanical package remains familiar and uncomplicated. The combination of a 149.5cc engine, comfortable ergonomics, stable handling characteristics, and practical dimensions gives the motorcycle a riding character that has remained largely consistent throughout its lifespan., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The KTM RC 390 is designed with a strong focus on performance and track-style riding, which is clear from its sharp fully faired design and aggressive riding posture. The low clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs place the rider in a forward-leaning position, offering better control at higher speeds but making slow city rides feel a bit demanding. Its 373cc single-cylinder engine delivers quick and energetic acceleration, especially in the mid and top range, and responds well to throttle inputs during overtakes or highway riding. The six-speed gearbox, along with a slipper clutch, helps in smoother shifts and better control while downshifting. Handling is one of its key strengths, with the bike feeling stable in corners and composed at higher speeds, supported by a lightweight frame and well-tuned suspension. Braking is predictable and confidence-inspiring, with disc brakes and dual-channel ABS adding to safety. It also comes with modern features like a TFT display and ride-by-wire throttle, though the overall setup leans more towards performance than everyday comfort, with a firm seat and committed riding position., 4.2, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What engine does the Bajaj Pulsar 150 use? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 149.5cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine. Q: How much power does the Pulsar 150 produce? A: The engine produces approximately 14 PS of power and 13.25 Nm of torque. Q: What is the top speed of the Pulsar 150? A: The motorcycle can reach an approximate top speed of 110–115 km/h. Q: Does the Bajaj Pulsar 150 have ABS? A: Yes, the current Pulsar 150 comes with single-channel ABS as standard. Q: What mileage does the Bajaj Pulsar 150 give in real-world conditions? A: Most owners report around 45–55 km/l, depending on traffic, riding style, and maintenance. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 150 suitable for highway riding? A: Yes. The 149.5cc engine, comfortable riding posture, and stable chassis make it suitable for daily highway commuting and occasional long-distance rides. Q: What is the top speed of the Bajaj Pulsar 150? A: The motorcycle can reach an approximate top speed of 110–115 km/h under suitable conditions. Q: Does the Bajaj Pulsar 150 still use a carburettor? A: No. The current model uses a fuel-injection system that complies with BS6 emission norms. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 150 available in single-seat and split-seat versions? A: Yes. Depending on the variant and market availability, buyers can choose between single-seat and split-seat configurations. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Pulsar 150? A: The motorcycle has a 15-litre fuel tank, which helps reduce fuel stops during long commutes. Q: How is the Pulsar 150 different from the Pulsar N150? A: The Pulsar 150 follows the traditional Pulsar design with twin rear shock absorbers and a more familiar riding feel, while the N150 uses the newer N-series platform with updated styling, chassis design, and a rear monoshock suspension. Q: Does the Bajaj Pulsar 150 get Bluetooth connectivity? A: No. Unlike some newer rivals and N-series Pulsars, the standard Pulsar 150 does not offer Bluetooth connectivity. Q: Is the Pulsar 150 good for daily commuting? A: The motorcycle is commonly used for daily commuting because of its balanced engine performance, comfortable ergonomics, and relatively low maintenance requirements. Q: What are the main rivals of the Bajaj Pulsar 150? A: Its key competitors include the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Hero Xtreme 160R 4V, Honda SP160, Honda Unicorn, and Yamaha FZ-S Fi. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 150 still worth considering despite being an older model? A: The Pulsar 150 remains in production and continues to receive updates such as fuel injection and ABS, although it retains much of the design and mechanical layout that has defined the model for years. | Q: What is the engine specification of the KTM RC 390? A: The RC 390 is powered by a 373.27 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine. Q: How much power and torque does KTM RC 390 produce? A: KTM RC 390 generates approximately 43.5 PS at 9,000 rpm and 37 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and mileage of the RC 390? A: The bike has a 13.7-litre fuel tank. Q: What type of brakes and safety features does the KTM RC 390 come with? A: It features a 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, paired with dual-channel ABS and a Supermoto mode for the ABS system. Q: What suspension setup does the RC 390 have? A: It uses WP APEX 43 mm USD forks at the front and a 10-step adjustable WP APEX monoshock at the rear. Q: What is the seat height and kerb weight of the RC 390? A: The seat height is 835 mm and the kerb weight is 172 kg. Q: Does the RC 390 support quick shifting and a slipper clutch? A: Yes, it comes with a slipper and assist clutch to make downshifts smoother and reduce rear-wheel chatter. Q: What electronic rider aids are available on the RC 390? A: The RC 390 offers several aids, including Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), cornering ABS, and Quickshifter+. Q: What kind of instrument cluster does KTM RC 390 have? A: It features a TFT multifunction display that shows info like speed, rpm, gear position, fuel range, and more. Q: Is the KTM RC 390 suitable for both city riding and weekend rides? A: Yes, it’s designed to be sporty and rider-focused, making it agile enough for city commuting, while its power and handling also make it a capable pick for weekend rides. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Disc | 110896 Single Disc UG | 113793 Twin Disc UG | 117605 | GP Edition | 322719 STD | 323068 |
| Pros | The 149.5cc engine offers a good balance between everyday usability and performance. It feels comfortable in city traffic while still having enough power for highway cruising and overtaking. The riding posture is one of the strongest aspects of the motorcycle. It manages to feel sporty without becoming uncomfortable, making it suitable for both daily commuting and longer rides. High-speed stability remains impressive for the segment. The motorcycle feels planted on highways and predictable while changing lanes or riding through sweeping corners. The Pulsar's muscular fuel tank, wolf-eyed headlamp design, and sporty bodywork continue to give it a strong road presence despite being in the market for many years. Maintenance costs are generally affordable, and spare parts are easily available across most parts of India. The twin-disc variant offers confident braking performance, especially during everyday riding and highway use. The seat provides adequate space for both rider and pillion, making the motorcycle practical for regular two-up riding. The engine is known for its durability when serviced regularly, which contributes to its long-standing popularity in the segment. | High Power for Its Class: With a 373cc single-cylinder engine, the RC 390 delivers blistering performance and is one of the most powerful in its segment. Aggressive Sport Styling: Fully-faired design, sharp lines, and MotoGP-inspired graphics make it visually striking. Premium Components: Equipped with WP suspension, a slipper/assist clutch, and a responsive quickshifter, giving a premium feel at this displacement. Modern Electronics: Features like Traction Control (MTC), cornering ABS, ride-by-wire throttle, and Quickshifter+ boost both safety and performance. Excellent Braking: Strong braking performance using a 320 mm front disc and dual-channel ABS ensures high safety. TFT Instrument Cluster: A full-color display provides essential information and adds a modern touch to the cockpit. Excellent Handling: Lightweight frame and sporty geometry result in agile, confidence-inspiring cornering and performance. |
| Starter | Kick and Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual | 6 Speed Manual |
