Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto, commented about the future of the Pulsar brand in an interview in September. Bajaj said that the company would overhaul the existing Pulsar range and the new emission norms would serve as an excellent opportunity to introduce the model range in the new avatar.
Also read: 9 upcoming bikes launching in India in 2019 - Bajaj Dominar 400 to KTM 790 Duke
In recent updates, a test mule of the upcoming Bajaj Pulsar 220F ABS was spotted in Maharashtra. The test mule is a mid-life upgrade for 2019 and NOT the all-new version that Rajiv Bajaj promised in the interview. In this post, we list out four things that we expect to see on the upcoming Bajaj Pulsar 220F.
Design
The shape remains true to the current generation model with a semi-fairing design, a projector style headlight, and sharp styling. However, unlike the current generation, the test mule featured an underbelly panel that would give the motorcycle a sportier look. Do note that the same panel was recently seen on the 2019 Bajaj Pulsar 150 Twin Disc variant.
The sides reveal the dual-tone exhaust and wheel design of the current model. The motorcycle will also retain its split seat and twin-pillion grab rail. The test mule was seen with conventional forks at the front and twin-sided, gas-charged springs at the rear.
Safety
The Government of India has mandated the installation of ABS on all motorcycles with an engine displacement of more than 125cc. Thus, the upcoming Bajaj Pulsar 220F would arrive with the safety net of ABS. However, to keep prices competitive, the motorcycle will feature a single-channel ABS that will be seen on the front wheel.
Engine
The 2019 Pulsar 220F is not likely to receive a BS-VI compliant motor as Rajiv Bajaj confirmed in an interview that the new engines would arrive with all-new models. BS-VI compliance means replacing carburettors with fuel-injection (Fi) technology that would deliver precise fueling, better economy and reduced emissions.
The 2019 model will most likely keep the 220cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that delivers 21 PS of maximum power and 19 Nm of peak torque. The engine is paired with a 5-speed gearbox.
Also read: Special edition Bajaj Pulsar 150 launched at INR 64,998 [Video]
Price
The addition of the safety net of single-channel ABS, the costs will go marginally up which would result in a relatively higher price tag. Expect to see an 8-10 per cent rise in prices with the addition of single-channel ABS. For reference, the current Bajaj Pulsar 220F retails for INR 98,694 (ex-showroom Delhi).
