Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar N250
11.5 pts
Unweighted: 6 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM RC 390
15.5 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil‑cooled | Liquid cooling. Curved radiator with fans for better heat management |
| Displacement | 249.07 cc | 373.27 cc |
| Engine Type | Single cylinder, 4 stroke, SOHC, 2 valve, Oil cooled, FI | Single Cylinder, Liquid Cooled, DOHC, FI Engine |
| Power | 18 kW (24.5 PS) @ 8750 rpm | 43.5 PS @ 9000 rpm |
| Torque | 21.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 37 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14 L | 13.7 L |
| Mileage | 39 Kmpl | 29 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 164 | 172 |
| Seat Height | 795 | 835 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual‑channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 300 mm Disc | 320 mm Disc with Radially mounted calliper |
| Front Suspension | USD telescopic fork (37 mm) | WP APEX USD forks, 43 mm diameter |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc | 230 mm Disc with Floating calliper |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox mono‑shock | WP APEX Monoshock, 10 step adjustable |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 110/70–17 Tubeless | 110/70 - 17 |
| Rear Tyre | 140/70–17 Tubeless | 150/60 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Bi functional LED projector headlamp with LED DRLs | LED Headlamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V, 8 Ah VRLA | 12 V, 8 AH MF battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-6.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GP-Edition-Blue.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/White-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Orange.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GP-Edition-Orange.avif |
| Cluster | Fully digital LCD | TFT Multifunction display |
| Color Options | Glossy Racing Red | #C1121F Pearl Metallic White | #F4F4F0 Brooklyn Black | #1B1B1B | Orange | #FF5A00 Blue | #1F3F8B GP Edition Blue | #1F3F8B, #FF5A00 GP Edition Orange | #FF5A00, #1F3F8B |
| Cons | Limited Top-End Excitement – While the engine performs strongly in the mid-range, some enthusiasts feel it lacks the aggressive high-RPM character found in certain rivals. Gearbox Could Feel More Precise – Some riders have reported that gear shifts are not always as slick or crisp as those offered by a few competing motorcycles. Suspension Can Feel Firm on Sharp Bumps – The setup generally balances comfort and handling well, but harsh potholes and broken roads can occasionally be felt through the chassis. No Wind Protection at Highway Speeds – As a naked streetfighter, the motorcycle exposes the rider to wind blast during prolonged high-speed riding. Pillion Comfort Is Average for Touring – While suitable for daily use, the rear seat may not be the most accommodating option for extended two-up journeys. Feature Availability Depends on Variant – Certain features such as traction control, riding modes, and connectivity functions may be restricted to specific versions. Weight Noticeable During Parking Manoeuvres – Although manageable while riding, the motorcycle's weight can feel slightly noticeable when pushing it around in tight spaces. Competition Offers More Premium Hardware – Some rivals in the segment provide features such as upside-down forks, more advanced electronics, or liquid-cooled engines, depending on the price point. | 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 | Within India’s growing 250cc motorcycle segment, the Bajaj Pulsar N250 occupies a space that bridges the gap between everyday commuter motorcycles and larger performance-oriented street bikes. It has been developed to offer a combination of practical usability, modern technology, and accessible performance, making it suitable for riders who require a motorcycle capable of handling both urban travel and highway riding. The N250 also represents one of the more feature-rich offerings in the Pulsar lineup, incorporating updated styling and contemporary equipment alongside a larger-capacity engine. The motorcycle draws attention with its muscular design language. A sculpted fuel tank, sharp tank shrouds, projector LED headlamp, and compact rear section contribute to its modern street-bike appearance. The bodywork follows an aggressive yet functional approach, with exposed mechanical components and minimal fairing panels emphasizing its naked-bike design. LED lighting is used throughout, including the headlamp, daytime running lights, and tail lamp, enhancing visibility while complementing the overall styling. At the heart of the Pulsar N250 is a 249.07cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, oil-cooled engine paired with a five-speed gearbox. The engine produces approximately 24.5 PS of power and 21.5 Nm of torque. Fuel injection helps ensure precise fuel delivery and consistent throttle response across varying riding conditions, while the oil-cooling system assists in regulating operating temperatures during extended use. The engine characteristics focus on delivering usable performance throughout the rev range, particularly in low- and mid-range speeds where most daily riding takes place. Supporting the engine is a tubular frame chassis designed to provide a balance between stability and manoeuvrability. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock suspension system. This setup is intended to absorb road imperfections while maintaining predictable handling characteristics. Whether navigating city streets, uneven surfaces, or open highways, the suspension and chassis work together to provide controlled road manners and rider confidence. Braking responsibilities are managed by disc brakes at both ends, complemented by dual-channel ABS as standard equipment. The anti-lock braking system helps reduce the possibility of wheel lock-up under hard braking conditions and assists riders in maintaining control. Recent versions of the motorcycle also include traction control, which monitors rear-wheel grip and intervenes when excessive wheel slip is detected. Riding modes are available as well, allowing riders to adjust throttle response characteristics according to different riding requirements. The feature list includes a digital instrument console that displays information such as speed, fuel level, gear position, trip information, distance-to-empty data, and other ride-related details. Bluetooth connectivity on selected variants enables smartphone integration, providing call alerts, message notifications, and navigation assistance. These features are designed to improve convenience while maintaining a rider-focused interface. Comfort remains an important aspect of the motorcycle’s design. The upright riding posture, wide handlebar, and centrally positioned footpegs create a relaxed seating position for everyday use. A seat height of approximately 795 mm makes the motorcycle accessible to a wide variety of riders, while the split-seat arrangement provides accommodation for both rider and passenger. The 14-litre fuel tank further supports longer journeys by reducing the frequency of refuelling stops. With its 249cc engine, modern electronics, advanced safety features, and street-focused design, the Bajaj Pulsar N250 offers a specification package that caters to a broad range of riding scenarios within the 250cc motorcycle category. | 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 N250 is powered by a 249.07cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox, delivering a torque-focused riding experience that is particularly noticeable in city traffic and during highway overtakes. The motorcycle's perimeter frame, wide handlebar, and upright ergonomics contribute to stable handling and rider comfort across a variety of road conditions. Features such as a digital instrument console, LED lighting, traction control, riding modes, and Bluetooth connectivity on selected variants bring modern functionality to the package. The suspension setup is tuned to balance ride comfort and control, while the braking system with dual-channel ABS provides predictable stopping performance. The engine emphasizes smooth power delivery and mid-range usability rather than aggressive high-rev performance, and the naked streetfighter design means riders experience noticeable wind blast at higher speeds. Overall, the N250 combines contemporary styling, everyday practicality, modern features, and accessible performance., 4.4, 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 is the engine capacity of the Bajaj Pulsar N250? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 249.07cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, oil-cooled engine. Q: Is the Pulsar N250 suitable for daily commuting? A: Yes. The upright riding position, manageable dimensions, and strong low- and mid-range torque make it practical for everyday city use. Q: What mileage does the Pulsar N250 deliver? A: Most owners report a real-world fuel efficiency of around 32–40 kmpl, depending on riding style, traffic conditions, and maintenance. Q: Does the Pulsar N250 have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes. The motorcycle is equipped with dual-channel ABS as standard. Q: Does the Pulsar N250 offer traction control? A: Yes. Recent versions include traction control to help manage wheel slip under certain riding conditions. Q: Does the Pulsar N250 feature riding modes? A: Yes. Select variants offer riding modes that adjust throttle response characteristics for different riding situations. Q: Is the Pulsar N250 comfortable for long rides? A: The upright ergonomics, spacious seat, and stable chassis make it suitable for highway travel and weekend touring. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Bajaj Pulsar N250? A: The motorcycle comes with a 14-litre fuel tank, providing a useful riding range between refuelling stops. Q: What is the seat height of the Pulsar N250? A: The seat height is approximately 795 mm, making it accessible to a wide variety of riders. Q: Does the Pulsar N250 have Bluetooth connectivity? A: Selected variants include Bluetooth connectivity for call alerts, message notifications, and turn-by-turn navigation. Q: Is the Pulsar N250 beginner-friendly? A: Riders with basic motorcycling experience can adapt to the motorcycle comfortably, thanks to its predictable power delivery and manageable ergonomics. Q: How does the Pulsar N250 differ from the Pulsar NS200? A: The N250 offers a larger engine, stronger torque delivery, modern electronics, and a more relaxed riding posture, while the NS200 has a more rev-happy performance character. Q: Does the Pulsar N250 vibrate at highway speeds? A: Most riders consider the engine reasonably refined, though mild vibrations may become noticeable at higher RPMs and sustained high speeds. Q: What type of motorcycle is the Pulsar N250? A: It is classified as a naked streetfighter or sports commuter, designed to balance everyday practicality with sporty performance. Q: Are spare parts and service support easily available? A: Yes. Bajaj's extensive dealership and service network across India generally ensures good parts availability and maintenance support. | 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 | STD | 136974 | GP Edition | 322719 STD | 323068 |
| Pros | Strong Mid-Range Performance – The 249cc engine delivers ample torque in the mid-range, making overtaking and highway cruising feel effortless without frequent gear changes. Refined Engine Character – Riders often appreciate the smooth power delivery and relatively low vibration levels compared to many motorcycles in the segment. Comfortable Riding Ergonomics – The upright seating position, wide handlebar, and well-cushioned seat provide comfort for daily commuting as well as longer rides. Stable Highway Manners – The motorcycle feels planted at higher speeds, giving riders confidence during highway journeys and fast-moving traffic conditions. Light and Predictable Handling – Despite its engine capacity, the N250 remains easy to manoeuvre in city traffic and offers confidence-inspiring cornering behaviour. Feature-Rich Package – Depending on the variant, features such as traction control, riding modes, a digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB charging add modern functionality. Good Ride Quality – The suspension setup absorbs most road imperfections effectively while maintaining stability on uneven surfaces. Attractive Streetfighter Styling – The muscular fuel tank, LED projector headlamp, and sharp bodywork give the motorcycle a distinctive road presence. Practical for Everyday Use – The combination of manageable power, comfortable ergonomics, and reasonable fuel efficiency makes it suitable for a wide range of riding conditions. | 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 | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | Manual 5‑speed | 6 Speed Manual |
