If you’re hunting for a bike that blends style, fuel‑efficiency and a punch of power without costing a fortune, the Bajaj Pulsar 125 Neon is worth a look. It’s the entry‑level kid brother of the iconic Pulsar line, and it’s designed for daily commuters who still want a little excitement.
The Neon rides on a 124.4 cc, air‑cooled, single‑cylinder engine that pushes out about 11 hp and 10.5 Nm of torque. Those numbers sound modest, but they translate to a lively city ride – you’ll feel confident overtaking scooters and navigating traffic. The bike uses a 5‑speed gearbox, giving you smooth shifts whether you’re cruising on a highway or stuck in stop‑and‑go.
Weight is another strong suit: at roughly 135 kg (dry), the Pulsar 125 Neon feels nimble and easy to handle. The front suspension is a telescopic fork, while the rear sports a conventional mono‑shock, keeping the ride comfortable on pothole‑ridden streets.
In India, the Neon is priced around ₹1.24 lakhs (ex‑showroom) – a sweet spot for first‑time buyers or anyone looking for a budget-friendly bike with a sporty vibe. Compared with rivals like the TVS Star City Plus or Hero Splendor iSmart, the Pulsar’s design edge and better resale value make it a compelling pick.Trim levels are simple – the standard version comes with a digital instrument cluster, LED headlamp, and a dual‑tone paint scheme that adds a youthful flair. There’s no fancy navigation or Bluetooth, but that keeps the cost down.
Fuel economy is impressive: expect roughly 55–60 km/l under mixed riding conditions. That means you can easily cover 300 km on a single tank, making it perfect for long commutes or weekend trips.
When it comes to maintenance, Bajaj’s dealer network is widespread, and service intervals are every 4,000 km or six months, whichever comes first. Common upkeep includes oil changes, chain lubrication, and brake pad checks – all inexpensive tasks.
Safety isn’t an afterthought either. The Neon features a front disc brake (single-channel ABS on newer variants) and a rear drum brake, delivering reliable stopping power even in wet weather. The 12‑inch wheels with alloy rims improve grip and handling.
Overall, the Pulsar 125 Neon offers a balanced mix of performance, style, and affordability. If you value a bike that can handle daily traffic yet still let you enjoy a bit of sporty riding on open roads, it checks the boxes.
Before you decide, take a test ride. Feel how the power band responds, check the seat comfort, and make sure the ergonomics suit your riding posture. A quick spin will confirm whether the Neon’s youthful look matches the real‑world experience you’re after.
In short, the Bajaj Pulsar 125 Neon is a solid entry‑level sports bike that won’t break the bank, delivers decent power, and keeps running costs low. It’s a practical choice for city riders who still crave a dash of excitement.