Bajaj Pulsar 220F ABS – What else can you buy?

Bajaj has updated one of its oldest and highly popular Pulsar models, the 220F with single-channel ABS. This has taken its price up by Rs 7,000 and now it comes for Rs 1.05 lakhs (ex-showroom). With its 220cc DTSi motor and mildly aggressive design, it makes for a good sporty streetbike. However, in case you are thinking of other possible options, here’s a round-up of bikes with a similar price tag. 

To start with street bikes in the segment, there are seven options you can consider. TVS offers the Apache RTR 200 4V that starts at Rs 1.16 lakhs for the carburetor model and goes all the way up to Rs 1.36 lakhs for the Race 2.0 ABS variant. Powering the bike is a 197.75cc, oil-cooled motor that churns out 20.7bhp and 18.1Nm of torque. Those who want an Apache with the older, traditional design in a lower price, the Apache RTR 180 ABS could be chosen. It retails at Rs 95,392 and gets a 177cc, air-cooled engine putting out 17.3bhp and 15.5Nm. 

The Yamaha FZ25 is also worth considering for its refined 249cc, air-cooled engine, fairly comfortable ergonomics and the price tag of Rs 1.18 lakhs. However, for the same price, you can get your hands on the most affordable KTM – the 125 Duke. Its 124.7cc, liquid-cooled engine churns out 14.3bhp and 12Nm while offering premium features like USD front forks, trellis frame, full-digital instrument cluster and six-speed gearbox. In case you are looking for a more powerful engine, the Bajaj Pulsar 200NS comes for Rs 1.11 lakhs and gets a 199.5cc, liquid-cooled motor that belts out 23.2bhp and 18.3Nm. With a similar engine capacity of 199.6cc, the Hero Xtreme 200R produces slightly lower power at 18.1bhp and 17.1Nm but it is also more affordable at Rs 91,600. 

For the riders who are more inclined towards faired, more sporty-looking bikes, the Yamaha YZF-R15 S comes for Rs 1.17 lakhs. It is powered by a 150cc, liquid-cooled engine that is good for 16bhp and 15Nm, mated to a six-speed gearbox. Suzuki has the Gixxer SF and SF Fi (fuel injected) which are priced at Rs 98,270 and Rs 1.02 lakhs for the ABS variant. It is propelled by a 155cc, air-cooled motor that pumps out 14.6bhp and 14Nm while being mated to a five-speed gearbox.