Bajaj Pulsar LS 135: In the bustling world of Indian motorcycles, where larger displacements and flashier designs often steal the spotlight, the Bajaj Pulsar LS 135 has quietly carved out its niche. This lightweight sports commuter, often overlooked in discussions about the Pulsar lineup, deserves a closer look for its unique blend of performance, efficiency, and affordability.
A Brief History
The Pulsar LS 135 was introduced as part of Bajaj’s strategy to bridge the gap between 125cc commuters and 150cc sports bikes. Launched in 2009, the LS 135 (Light Sports 135) was designed to offer a sporty riding experience without the higher costs associated with larger bikes in the Pulsar family.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Pulsar LS 135 lies a 134.6cc, 4-stroke, DTS-i (Digital Twin Spark Ignition) engine. This powerplant, despite its modest displacement, punches above its weight:
- Power Output: 13.5 PS @ 9,000 rpm
- Torque: 11.4 Nm @ 7,500 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
These figures translate to a peppy performance on the road, with the LS 135 capable of sprinting from 0-60 km/h in just 5.74 seconds. The bike’s top speed of around 115 km/h is impressive for its class, making it a favorite among young riders looking for a balance of performance and practicality.
Fuel Efficiency: A Key Selling Point
In a market where fuel efficiency is often a deciding factor, the Pulsar LS 135 doesn’t disappoint. Bajaj claims a mileage of 60 kmpl under standard testing conditions, a figure that translates to about 45-50 kmpl in real-world riding conditions. This efficiency, coupled with its 8-liter fuel tank, gives the LS 135 a respectable range of over 400 km on a full tank.
Design and Ergonomics
The LS 135 sports a design that’s unmistakably Pulsar, with a few unique touches:
- Muscular fuel tank with sharp lines
- Sporty split seats
- Distinctive wolf-eyed headlamp
- Stylish alloy wheels
The bike’s compact dimensions (Length: 2,055 mm, Width: 755 mm, Height: 1,060 mm) make it easy to maneuver in city traffic. With a kerb weight of just 122 kg, it’s one of the lightest bikes in the Pulsar lineup, contributing to its agile handling characteristics.
Features and Technology
Despite its positioning as an entry-level sports commuter, the LS 135 doesn’t skimp on features:
- Digital-analog instrument cluster
- Backlit switches
- LED tail lamp
- Nitrox mono-shock rear suspension
- 240mm front disc brake
The inclusion of Bajaj’s patented DTS-i technology ensures optimal fuel combustion, contributing to the bike’s impressive performance and efficiency.
Market Position and Competition
The Pulsar LS 135 occupies a unique position in the Indian motorcycle market. It competes with:
- 125cc commuters like the Honda Shine and Hero Glamour
- Entry-level 150cc bikes like the Yamaha FZ-Fi V3 and TVS Apache RTR 160
Its blend of performance and efficiency makes it an attractive option for riders looking to upgrade from a 100-110cc bike without stepping into the more expensive 150cc segment.
Sales and Market Performance
While Bajaj doesn’t release individual sales figures for the LS 135, industry analysts estimate that it consistently sells between 5,000 to 7,000 units per month. This steady performance underscores the bike’s appeal to a specific segment of riders who prioritize a balance of sportiness and practicality.
Owner Feedback and Long-Term Reliability
Long-term owners of the Pulsar LS 135 often praise the bike for its:
- Peppy performance in city riding conditions
- Low maintenance costs
- Comfortable ergonomics for daily commuting
- Fuel efficiency that remains consistent over years of use
However, some owners have reported issues with electrical components and plastic quality in older models. Bajaj has addressed many of these concerns in recent production runs, improving the overall reliability of the bike.
Future Outlook
As the Indian motorcycle market continues to evolve, with an increasing focus on larger displacement bikes and electric vehicles, the future of the Pulsar LS 135 remains uncertain. Industry insiders speculate that Bajaj might:
- Discontinue the model in favor of focusing on their 125cc and 150cc offerings
- Update the LS 135 with modern features like ABS and fuel injection to meet upcoming regulations
- Replace it with an all-new model that bridges the gap between their 125cc and 150cc segments
Regardless of its future, the Pulsar LS 135 has already left its mark on the Indian motorcycle landscape, proving that sometimes, the most interesting bikes are the ones that fly under the radar.
Conclusion: The Underappreciated Gem
The Bajaj Pulsar LS 135 may not be the flashiest or the most powerful bike in the Pulsar lineup, but it represents something unique in the Indian motorcycle market. It’s a bike that offers a taste of sports performance without breaking the bank, a commuter that can excite on weekend rides, and a reliable partner for daily urban adventures.
In a market often dominated by extremes – ultra-efficient commuters on one end and high-performance machines on the other – the LS 135 stands as a testament to the value of balance. It reminds us that sometimes, the most satisfying rides come from bikes that don’t try to be everything to everyone, but instead excel at being exactly what they are.
As we look to the future of motorcycling in India, with its shifts towards electrification and increasing segmentation, the Pulsar LS 135 serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of a well-executed concept. Whether it continues in its current form or evolves into something new, the spirit of the LS 135 – accessible performance, everyday practicality – is likely to remain a key part of the Indian motorcycling ethos for years to come.
For riders seeking the sweet spot between commuter efficiency and sports bike thrill, the Bajaj Pulsar LS 135 continues to offer a compelling proposition. It may not be the star of Bajaj’s lineup, but for those in the know, it’s a hidden gem that shines brightly on Indian streets.