Bajaj Pulsar 220F was earlier spotted with an ABS ring on its disc brake and now, the same has started reaching dealerships in India. The images confirm that the updated product will launch before the implementation of mandatory ABS rule for bikes with 125cc or above displacement. As expected, the motorcycle is carrying a new shade pattern and does not support any new design line on its semi-faired body.
The Bajaj fans are divided into two groups, out of which one was eagerly waiting for something new and feels disappointed while the other loves the traditional design lines of the frugal Pulsar 220F. As Bajaj is yet to upgrade the ABS system on flagship Pulsars, the 220F is expected to support a single channel unit with RLP (Rear Lift Protection). The ABS model of Pulsar 220F is expected to get an ex-showroom price tag of around INR 1.10 lakh.
Bajaj only offers dual-channel ABS option on Dominar 400, leaving a negligible price gap of INR 2000 between the units used on Pulsar RS200 and the flagship sports tourer. They may introduce the same on all bikes next year but presently, the difference in price may be counted as a huge factor against non-ABS rivals. The 220cc, single cylinder engine on Bajaj Pulsar 220F is good for 20.93 PS at 8500 rpm and 18.55 Nm at 7000 rpm. The engine comes mated to a 5-speed gearbox and lacks advanced feature list like next generation Pulsars.
Bajaj Pulsar series registered around 70,000 units in sales number in November. The new five-year insurance rule had almost zero impact on the sales number. It was because the brands absorbed the remaining four-year third-party premium. Pulsar 220F has a cult fan following in India. One can see the sales number for this 220cc, oil cooled machine and feel the difference that it creates for Bajaj Auto. Even the present generation of models like NS200 and RS200 are away from achieving this feat with aggressive design and more technology on offer.
Photos Source: RushLane
