Upcoming Bajaj Pulsar 150AS snapped testing

Bajaj Auto is fast upping the ante on the Pulsar front. Only last week, it had launched the fastest Pulsar yet – the RS 200. Now, it is readying a half-faired Pulsar – the 200AS – which is close to showroom-launch, given that test examples have been spotted periodically. Here’s ample proof.  

Autocar India photographer Priyank Chhapwale recently snapped a new Pulsar AS being put through its paces near Lonavala. The images reveal a smaller capacity engine which indicates this bike is most likely the missing link in the evolving Pulsar jigsaw – the upcoming 150AS. A lot differentiates the Pulsar 150AS from its larger 200cc sibling as seen in the slimmer tyres, the absence of a radiator ahead of a not-so-full engine bay, and a drum rear brake.

The nicely proportioned Pulsar 150AS sports a neatly styled front quarter fairing which extends sleekly back into a clear visor for rider protection from wind blast when touring. Other product highlights include a projector lamp-powered headlight and a deeply grooved fuel tank. Several lightweight alloy parts are in place, including slim-spoke Pulsar-typical wheels, rider as well as pillion footrests and sub-frames for them. Expect Bajaj to offer regular Pulsar features such as backlit switches with the 150AS.

The 150AS is likely to share its powerplant with the existing Pulsar 150 DTS-i model, deploying a new-generation, four-stroke, single-cylinder and multi-plug engine displacing close to 150cc, fed by a CV carburetor. As on earlier Pulsar 150s, the 150AS is likely to get a five-speed gearbox, shifting in the one-down, four-up pattern.

A perimeter frame can be spotted on the new bike, a key difference between the Pulsar 150AS and older DTS-i bikes, which Bajaj Auto is expected to continue selling. Telescopic forks are to be used as front suspension, with a monoshock setup seen at the rear of the Pulsar 150AS. There’s a front disc brake on this new AS, with petal type rotor and drum brake at the back. ABS isn’t expected. The 17-inch wheels are in black as are plenty of other parts including the engine.

The smart-looking Pulsar 150AS looks to be no more than a few weeks away from launch, the camouflaged bike looking virtually finished and showroom-ready, as it runs through its final testing stages. Watch this space for more.