Bajaj Pulsar N125 Review: Can It Stand Out Among 125cc Rivals?

When it comes to Pulsars in Nepal, the family just keeps growing. Three 125cc Pulsars, eleven variants, and still counting. Bajaj’s lineup is impressive—but also confusing. The latest addition, the N125, joins the Pulsar 125 and NS125, leaving riders to wonder which 125cc Pulsar truly suits their style and ride.

But the N125 isn’t just another sibling—it’s a ground-up design, built to stand apart rather than borrow heavily from its 125cc cousins, according to Bajaj.

In a market where 125cc motorcycles are primarily favored by mid-career working riders, while younger buyers lean toward 150cc machines, the N125 has to prove itself not just in performance and usability, but also by carving a distinct identity within the family.

Add competitors like the TVS Raider 125 and Hero Xtreme 125R, and the equation becomes even more intriguing. In such a crowded segment, the question is clear: how does the N125 stand out, and does it deliver enough in terms of performance, handling, and everyday practicality? Let’s find out.

Design

In a market with multiple options, visual identity matters, and the N125 manages to stand out without being overbearing. While it retains signature N-series cues—floating panels, sculpted tank, and digital instrument cluster—the bike feels fresh, particularly in the way the headlight and cowl integrate seamlessly with the overall design.

The sculpted tank with pronounced shoulder lines houses a 9.5-litre fuel tank, giving the bike a lean yet sporty stance. A wide, single-piece handlebar paired with a fully digital instrument cluster—featuring Bluetooth connectivity—enhances its modern appeal. Fork covers and floating panels add to the bike’s athletic character, while the three available color options let buyers personalize their ride.

Overall, the N125 strikes a balance between aggressive styling and approachability, making it a sporty choice for city streets and casual rides alike.

Engine and Performance

The N125 houses a 124.58cc single-cylinder engine, producing class-leading 11.83 BHP and 11 Nm of torque, paired with a five-speed gearbox.

In city traffic, it feels lively and responsive, easily navigating congested streets. On highways or the outer ring road, the engine delivers smooth, effortless power without ever feeling stressed, while offering fuel efficiency in the 55–60 km/l range.

Acceleration is brisk up to 80 km/h, and we recorded a top speed of 97 km/h under safe riding conditions. The engine remains tractable even in stop-and-go traffic, making it practical yet fun for both urban commuting and longer suburban rides.

The performance is more than enough for everyday city riding, and should you take it out on highways or open roads, the N125 handles the task confidently without any signs of strain.

Handling and Ride Quality

The N125 sits on a diamond frame chassis, complemented by telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock. At 125 kg kerb weight, it’s exceptionally light and nimble, making it ideal for quick lane changes and tight corners.

The seat height of 795mm keeps it accessible to riders of various statures, while 198mm of ground clearance helps tackle Nepal’s uneven urban roads with confidence. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps, offering a comfortable ride without feeling soft or unstable.

The tyres—80/100-17 front and 110/80-17 rear—give the bike both stability and nimbleness. Combined with a light clutch and precise gearbox, the N125 feels responsive and easy to ride, making it an excellent choice for beginners or anyone seeking a reliable daily commuter.

Making Sense of the Pulsar Puzzle

The N125 proves capable on all fronts, but it raises a bigger question: can the Nepali market support three 125cc Pulsars alongside a dozen other rivals?

With fresh styling, lightweight handling, and a lively engine, the N125 stands out in an already crowded segment. Priced at Rs 3,03,900, it competes directly with the TVS Raider 125 and Hero Xtreme 125R, giving riders multiple strong options.

But who is the bike for? Unlike in India, where 125cc motorcycles mainly attract young professionals or beginners, in Nepal these bikes are often favored by mid-career working riders, while younger buyers usually gravitate toward 150cc machines.

For this younger crowd, the N125’s manageable seat height, comfortable ergonomics, and forgiving handling make it a practical yet enjoyable daily commuter for those seeking a sporty, agile 125cc without stepping up to a 150cc.