Bajaj Pulsar 220 F

Powered by a 220cc, single-cylinder, air- and oil-cooled DTS-i engine, the Pulsar 220F produces 20.4 PS at 8,500 rpm and 18.55 Nm at 7,000 rpm, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. It achieves a top speed of 130 kmph and a claimed mileage of 38-40 km/l, ideal for city and short highway rides. The engine delivers strong mid-range torque but lacks the refinement of the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V at higher revs. Its fuel-injected, BS6-compliant system ensures smoother power delivery.

The 2025 Pulsar 220F retains its signature semi-faired look with a muscular tank, projector headlamp, and LED tail light. It comes in Black-Red, Black-Blue, and Black-Silver colour combinations . The digital instrument cluster displays speed, fuel, and trip data but lacks smartphone connectivity. Its 160 kg kerb weight ensures decent handling, though the build quality, with some plasticky panels, feels less premium than the Yamaha FZ25’s robust finish.

The 2025 Pulsar 220F includes single-channel ABS, front and rear disc brakes (280 mm and 230 mm), LED tail light, projector headlamp with AHO (Automatic Headlight On), a side-stand cut-off sensor, and a hazard warning indicator. The ABS enhances braking safety, a step up from the Bajaj Pulsar 150. However, it lacks advanced features like traction control or riding modes, available on the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V. The sturdy frame and tubeless tires ensure reliability.

TVS Apache RTR 200 4V - The Apache RTR 200 4V (20.82 PS) offers slightly higher power, sharper handling, and advanced features like three riding modes, adjustable suspension, and smartphone connectivity. Its build quality and refinement are superior. The Pulsar 220F is more affordable (₹1,41,000 vs. ₹1,48,000) and offers a larger 15-liter fuel tank as opposed to the 12 liters on the Apache. Its semi-faired design provides better wind protection for highway rides, and the projector headlamp enhances visibility during night rides.

Honda Hornet 2.0 - The Hornet 2.0’s 184.4cc engine (17.26 PS) is smoother, with a modern design, LED headlights, and a fully digital console with gear position indicator. Its lighter 142 kg frame enhances agility. The Pulsar 220F is more budget-friendly (₹1,40,000 vs. ₹1,57,000) and offers a higher top speed (130 kmph vs. 120 kmph). Its 15-liter fuel tank outshines the Hornet’s 12-liter capacity, and the semi-faired design aids highway cruising.

Bajaj Pulsar N250 - The Pulsar N250’s 249cc engine (24.5 PS) delivers more power and torque, with a slipper clutch and sharper naked styling. Its modern features like a digital console with connectivity outshine the 220F’s basic setup. The Pulsar 220F is more affordable (₹1,41,000 vs. ₹1,50,000) and offers a semi-faired design for better wind protection. Its projector headlamp provides superior night visibility compared to the N250’s halogen unit.

The 2025 Bajaj Pulsar 220F remains a compelling choice for riders seeking a sporty yet affordable motorcycle in the 200-250cc segment. Priced from ₹1,41,000, its 20.4 PS engine, single-channel ABS, and iconic semi-faired design deliver strong performance and value for city and short highway rides. However, its plasticky build, firm suspension, and lack of modern features like smartphone connectivity or riding modes lag behind rivals like the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and Yamaha FZ25. For budget-conscious enthusiasts wanting a trusted brand, the Pulsar 220F shines, but those prioritizing refinement or advanced tech may look elsewhere.