Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS125
20.5 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Sportster S
14.5 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air cooled | Liquid‑cooled |
| Displacement | 124.45 cc | 1,252 cc |
| Engine Type | 4-Stroke, SOHC 4-Valve, Air Cooled, BSVI Compliant DTS-i Ei Engine | Revolution Max 1250T V‑twin (DOHC, VVT) |
| Power | 11.8 bhp @ 8500 rpm | 122.3 PS @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | 11 Nm @ 7000 rpm | 125 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 11.7 L |
| Mileage | 50 kmpl | 19.6 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 145 | 228 |
| Seat Height | 805 | 765 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Single channel ABS with 3 ABS ride modes | Cornering (dual-channel) ABS |
| Front Brake | 240 mm (CBS/CBS premium) and 260 mm (ABS) front disc | 320 mm Disc |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic | 43 mm inverted fork with compression, rebound and spring preload adjustability. Aluminum fork triple clamps. |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum CBS | 260 mm Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock | Linkage-mounted, piggyback monoshock with compression, rebound and hydraulic spring preload adjustability |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 90/90 - 17 | 160/70 R17 Dunlop Harley‑Davidson radial |
| Rear Tyre | 120/80 - 17 | 180/70 R16 Dunlop Harley‑Davidson radial |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Radial, tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Halogen Headlamp | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12V, 4Ah | 12 V, 12 Ah, 225 CCA |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blue-1.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Brilliant-red-1.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/red-1.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Mystic-shift-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/peal-mettalic-white-1.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Vivid-Black-2.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/pewter-grey-3.avif | — |
| Bike Image 5 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/orange-1.avif | — |
| Cluster | — | 4‑in full‑color TFT display |
| Color Options | Burnt Black | #1C1C1C Beach Blue | #4A7FA0 Burnt Red | #8B1A1A Pearl Mettalic white | #E8E8E6 Pewter Grey | #6E6E6E Fiery Orange | #F05A28 | Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Brilliant Red | #A01824 Mystic Shift | #4B4F59 |
| Cons | Not as refined as competitors Air-cooled engine limitation Stiff braking | Rear Suspension Travel Is Limited – The motorcycle's low profile comes at the expense of suspension travel, which can make sharp bumps and rough roads more noticeable. Fuel Tank Capacity Is Smaller Than Expected – The relatively compact fuel tank can require more frequent fuel stops than some riders might anticipate from a large-capacity motorcycle. Riding Position Can Feel Unusual – The combination of mid-to-forward controls and a relatively upright upper body position doesn't suit every rider, especially on longer journeys. Passenger Accommodation Is Minimal – The motorcycle is clearly designed with the rider as the priority, and pillion comfort is limited in stock form. Engine Heat Is Noticeable in Traffic – The high-performance engine can generate considerable heat during slow-moving urban riding. Not as Relaxed as Traditional Cruisers – Riders expecting the laid-back feel of motorcycles such as the Fat Boy or Heritage Classic may find the Sportster S considerably more focused and demanding. Limited Touring Practicality – There is little wind protection, no integrated luggage, and fewer long-distance touring conveniences than Harley's cruiser-touring models. |
| Detailed Overview | The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is built as a smaller-capacity motorcycle within the NS (Naked Sport) lineup, combining a compact engine with a perimeter frame and design elements inspired by larger Pulsar models. At its core, the motorcycle is powered by a 124.45 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that uses a 4-valve SOHC configuration and fuel injection to manage combustion. This engine produces around 12 PS of power at 8500 rpm and 11 Nm of torque at 7000 rpm, figures that are broadly in line with other motorcycles in the 125cc segment. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, which allows the rider to shift through gears depending on speed and riding conditions. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a chain drive system, a common setup in motorcycles of this category. The overall powertrain is designed to provide a mix of usable power and efficiency for everyday riding scenarios. The NS125 is built on a perimeter frame, a structure that surrounds the engine and distributes loads around it during cornering and regular riding. This type of frame is derived from larger NS models. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock suspension, which work together to absorb road irregularities such as bumps and uneven surfaces. For braking, the motorcycle features a front disc brake and a rear drum brake, supported by a combined braking system (CBS). In some variants, a single-channel ABS setup is also available, depending on the configuration. The braking system is designed to distribute stopping force between the wheels to maintain balance during deceleration. The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, which are commonly used for road grip and ease of maintenance. This wheel setup contributes to maneuverability and stability in both city traffic and open roads. In terms of dimensions, the Pulsar NS125 has a fuel tank capacity of 12 litres, providing a riding range between refueling stops that depends on fuel consumption and riding conditions. The motorcycle has a kerb weight of around 145 kg and a seat height of approximately 805 mm. Ground clearance is around 178 mm, intended to provide clearance over uneven road surfaces and speed breakers. The instrument cluster on the NS125 is typically a semi-digital console, combining an analog tachometer with a digital display for speed, fuel level, and trip information. Some variants also include Bluetooth connectivity features, offering additional ride data and navigation-related functions through a connected device. Lighting components include a halogen or LED headlamp setup depending on variant, and an LED tail lamp, along with design elements such as the wolf-eyed headlamp styling and split grab rails. | The Sportster S represents a very different chapter in the history of Harley-Davidson’s Sportster line. For decades, the Sportster name was associated with air-cooled V-twin engines, relatively simple technology, and a riding experience rooted in traditional cruiser values. The current Sportster S moves away from that formula and adopts a platform that shares far more with modern performance motorcycles than with its predecessors. While the styling still carries some Harley-Davidson influence, much of the motorcycle’s engineering has been developed around a different set of priorities. The most significant change is found in the engine. Instead of using an air-cooled V-twin, the Sportster S is powered by Harley-Davidson’s Revolution Max 1250T engine. This 1,252cc liquid-cooled V-twin is a stressed member of the chassis, meaning it contributes to the motorcycle’s structural rigidity rather than simply sitting within a frame. The engine produces its power differently from traditional Harley-Davidson motors, with a broader operating range and a willingness to rev higher. A six-speed gearbox transfers power to the rear wheel, while electronic engine management systems oversee throttle response, fuel delivery, and rider-assistance functions. Visually, the motorcycle is defined by a compact body, a short rear section, and a high-mounted dual exhaust system positioned on the right side. The fuel tank shape appears larger than it actually is because part of the visible structure functions as a cover, while the fuel itself is stored lower within the chassis. This layout helps centralize mass and contributes to the motorcycle’s proportions. The actual fuel capacity is 11.8 litres, which is smaller than what is commonly found on many touring-oriented motorcycles. The chassis differs substantially from Harley-Davidson’s traditional cruiser platforms. Rather than using a steel frame with conventional architecture, the Sportster S combines the engine with separate front and rear frame sections. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock, both of which offer adjustment options. Compared to many cruisers, the suspension components are more performance-oriented in both design and appearance. Wheel and tyre specifications also play a major role in defining the motorcycle’s character. The Sportster S uses wide tyres at both ends, including a particularly large front tyre that immediately stands out. This setup contributes to the motorcycle’s visual identity and influences steering feel and overall handling behaviour. Braking is managed through a single front disc with a radial-mounted Brembo caliper and a rear disc brake, supported by modern electronic systems. Technology forms a larger part of the package than it does on many traditional Harley-Davidson models. A round TFT display serves as the motorcycle’s instrument cluster and allows access to a range of vehicle settings. Through this interface, riders can view ride information, adjust ride modes, and interact with connectivity features. The motorcycle includes selectable ride modes, traction control, cornering-enhanced ABS, wheel-lift mitigation, engine braking control, and cruise control. These systems are managed through sensors that continuously monitor riding conditions and rider inputs. The riding position differs from both conventional cruisers and naked motorcycles. Mid-to-forward-mounted foot controls place the rider’s legs ahead of the body, while the handlebar keeps the upper body relatively upright. The seat height of approximately 765 mm is higher than many Harley-Davidson cruisers, reflecting the motorcycle’s different chassis layout and intended riding dynamics. Taken together, the Sportster S combines a liquid-cooled Revolution Max engine, electronically managed rider aids, adjustable suspension, TFT instrumentation, and a compact chassis architecture. Its specification sheet reflects a motorcycle developed around modern engineering solutions while retaining a visual connection to Harley-Davidson’s broader lineup. |
| Expert Review | The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 occupies an interesting position in the 125cc segment - it borrows the perimeter frame, monoshock rear suspension, and streetfighter styling from its larger NS siblings, which gives it a hardware advantage that most competitors at this price point simply cannot match on paper. In real-world city riding, the 124.45cc air-cooled engine delivers adequate performance for stop-and-go traffic and college commutes, though it begins to show its limitations above 80 km/h where vibrations become noticeable through the handlebar and footpegs. The claimed ARAI efficiency of 56+ km/l is optimistic, most owners report figures closer to 34–45 km/l under mixed riding conditions, which is decent but not exceptional for a 125cc motorcycle. The addition of single-channel ABS on the top variant is a genuinely meaningful safety feature for the segment, though the base and mid variants still make do with CBS, and the rear drum brake across all variants feels like a cost compromise that affects overall braking confidence. Build quality and finish are adequate for the price but fall short of what the sporty design aesthetic suggests, plastics feel thin in places and panel gaps are inconsistent on some units. At roughly ₹93,000–₹1,02,000 ex-showroom, the NS125 is reasonably positioned, but buyers willing to stretch their budget slightly will find the NS160 a considerably more complete motorcycle in terms of performance and refinement., 3.2, MotoAutiv Team | The Sportster S is one of the most significant departures Harley-Davidson has made from its traditional formula in recent years. Despite carrying the Sportster name, the motorcycle feels fundamentally different from the air-cooled models that built the badge's reputation. The Revolution Max 1250T engine is the centerpiece of the experience, delivering performance that feels considerably stronger and more urgent than what many riders expect from a Harley-Davidson cruiser. The chassis and electronics package have been developed to match that performance, giving the bike handling and braking capabilities that place it closer to modern roadsters and power cruisers than traditional cruisers. At the same time, the Sportster S makes a few compromises in pursuit of its aggressive styling and performance-focused character. Suspension travel is limited, the riding position can feel unusual on longer rides, and touring practicality is not a priority. What emerges is a motorcycle that feels deliberately different from the rest of Harley-Davidson's cruiser lineup. Rather than focusing on heritage and nostalgia, it emphasizes performance, technology, and a more contemporary interpretation of what a Harley-Davidson can be., 4.5, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What mileage can I expect from the NS125? A: The bike is reported to deliver around 45–55 km/l, depending on riding conditions, maintenance, and usage. Q: Is the NS125 good for daily commuting? A: Yes, it is generally considered suitable for daily commuting, due to its manageable power, relatively lightweight feel, and fuel efficiency. Q: Is the NS125 comfortable for long rides? A: It can handle short to medium rides comfortably, but for longer highway rides, higher-capacity motorcycles may offer more relaxed cruising ability. Q: What type of engine does the NS125 use? A: The NS125 uses a single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine, which is a straightforward setup compared to liquid-cooled engines found in higher-capacity NS models. | Q: Which engine powers the Sportster S? A: The motorcycle uses Harley-Davidson's 1,252cc Revolution Max 1250T liquid-cooled V-twin engine. Q: Is the Sportster S air-cooled? A: No. Unlike older Sportster models, the Sportster S uses a liquid-cooled engine. Q: How is the Sportster S different from older Sportsters? A: The Sportster S uses a completely different platform with a liquid-cooled engine, TFT display, ride modes, traction control, and a more performance-focused chassis. Q: Does the Sportster S have ride modes? A: Yes. Multiple ride modes are available, allowing riders to adjust throttle response and electronic intervention settings. Q: Does the Sportster S have cruise control? A: Yes. Cruise control is included as standard equipment. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Sportster S? A: The motorcycle has an 11.8-litre fuel tank. Q: Is the Sportster S suitable for long-distance touring? A: It can handle longer rides, but its compact fuel tank, limited wind protection, and firm suspension make it less touring-oriented than Harley-Davidson's cruiser-touring models. Q: Is the Sportster S comfortable for a passenger? A: Passenger accommodation is limited in stock form and is not one of the motorcycle's primary focuses. Q: What is the seat height of the Sportster S? A: The seat height is approximately 765 mm. Q: Does the Sportster S have traction control and cornering ABS? A: Yes. The motorcycle includes cornering-enhanced ABS, traction control, and other electronic rider-assistance systems. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Sportster S? A: The motorcycle weighs approximately 228 kg in running condition. Q: Is the Sportster S beginner-friendly? A: Due to its performance, power output, and responsive throttle characteristics, it is generally more suitable for riders with some experience. Q: Does the Sportster S support smartphone connectivity? A: Yes. The TFT display supports smartphone connectivity, navigation functions, and various connected features. |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Standard | 92760 | Disc Brakes, Alloy Wheels, CBS, Halogen headlamp LED Bluetooth | 97409 | Disc Brakes, Alloy Wheels, CBS, LED headlamp LED Bluetooth - ABS | 102111 | Disc Brakes, Alloy Wheels, Single channel ABS, LED headlamp | STD | 1805000 |
| Pros | Sporty NS design and road presence Good performance for daily use Fuel-efficient engine Comfortable and easy to handle Value-for-money positioning | Engine Completely Changes the Character of the Bike – The Revolution Max 1250T engine feels very different from traditional Harley-Davidson V-twins. It revs higher, responds quicker to throttle inputs, and delivers performance in a way that feels more modern and energetic. Strong Acceleration Across the Rev Range – Whether pulling away from a traffic light or overtaking on a highway, the engine has enough power in reserve that the motorcycle rarely feels short of performance. Surprisingly Capable Handling – Compared to most cruisers, the Sportster S feels noticeably more willing to lean into corners and change direction. Modern Electronics Package – Ride modes, traction control, cornering ABS, cruise control, and a TFT display bring a level of technology that wasn't traditionally associated with the Sportster name. Distinctive Design – The short tail section, high-mounted exhaust, fat tyres, and exposed engine give the motorcycle a look that stands apart from both traditional cruisers and naked bikes. High-Quality TFT Display – The instrument screen is clear, modern, and provides access to a wide range of riding information and settings. Strong Braking Performance – The braking setup offers a level of stopping power that matches the motorcycle's performance capabilities. Lighter and More Agile Than Many Harley-Davidsons – While not a lightweight motorcycle by industry standards, it feels noticeably more manageable than Harley's larger cruiser and touring models. |
| Starter | Kick and Self Start | Electric |
| Transmission | 5 speed manual | 6‑speed manual |
