2023’s best 125cc commuter comparison: honda x blade vs pulsar 125 – your guide to the perfect ride
What To Know
- While the power output is slightly lower than the X Blade, the Pulsar 125 offers a more sprightly and sporty performance, thanks to its lighter weight and shorter gear ratios.
- The Honda X Blade comes equipped with a host of features, including an engine kill switch, a gear position indicator, and a side stand indicator.
- However, if you seek a more sporty and engaging riding experience at a more affordable price, the Bajaj Pulsar 125 is a compelling option.
In the realm of 125cc motorcycles, two titans stand tall: the Honda X Blade and the Bajaj Pulsar 125. Both machines have carved a niche for themselves in the Indian market, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and affordability. This comprehensive comparison aims to pit these two stalwarts against each other, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and the factors that set them apart.
Engine and Performance
Honda X Blade:
The Honda X Blade boasts a 162.71cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that delivers 13.63bhp of power at 8500rpm and 11.6Nm of torque at 5500rpm. The engine is known for its smooth and refined operation, providing a comfortable and responsive riding experience.
Bajaj Pulsar 125:
The Bajaj Pulsar 125, on the other hand, is powered by a 124.45cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 11.8bhp of power at 8500rpm and 11Nm of torque at 6500rpm. While the power output is slightly lower than the X Blade, the Pulsar 125 offers a more sprightly and sporty performance, thanks to its lighter weight and shorter gear ratios.
Design and Styling
Honda X Blade:
The Honda X Blade exudes a sharp and aggressive design, with angular lines and a muscular stance. The LED headlight and taillight add to its modern appeal, while the digital instrument cluster provides a comprehensive display of essential information.
Bajaj Pulsar 125:
The Bajaj Pulsar 125, in contrast, adopts a more conventional yet stylish design. Its semi-faired bodywork, sharp graphics, and split seats offer a sporty and aerodynamic look. The analogue-digital instrument cluster provides a clear and concise display of vital data.
Features and Technology
Honda X Blade:
The Honda X Blade comes equipped with a host of features, including an engine kill switch, a gear position indicator, and a side stand indicator. The optional HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control) system further enhances safety by preventing rear-wheel spin during acceleration.
Bajaj Pulsar 125:
The Bajaj Pulsar 125 offers a more basic set of features, including an engine kill switch and a low-fuel indicator. However, it does boast a USB charging port, a convenient feature for charging electronic devices on the go.
Ride and Handling
Honda X Blade:
The Honda X Blade offers a comfortable and composed ride, thanks to its well-damped suspension and wide handlebars. The seating position is upright and ergonomic, providing a relaxed and commanding riding posture.
Bajaj Pulsar 125:
The Bajaj Pulsar 125, with its sporty ergonomics and stiffer suspension setup, provides a more engaging and agile riding experience. The lower seat height and rearset footpegs enhance the rider’s connection to the motorcycle.
Fuel Efficiency and Economy
Honda X Blade:
The Honda X Blade is known for its impressive fuel efficiency, delivering an average of around 55-60kmpl in real-world riding conditions. Its fuel-injected engine and advanced combustion technology contribute to its economical performance.
Bajaj Pulsar 125:
The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is slightly less fuel-efficient than the X Blade, with an average mileage of 45-50kmpl. However, its lower price and maintenance costs make it a more affordable option in the long run.
Price and Availability
Honda X Blade:
The Honda X Blade is available in India with a starting price of around INR 1.25 lakhs (ex-showroom). It comes in a range of colors and variants, including the base model, DLX, and CBS variants.
Bajaj Pulsar 125:
The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is priced more competitively, with a starting price of around INR 90,000 (ex-showroom). It is available in multiple color options and variants, including the base model, Neon, and Split Seat variants.
Verdict: Honda X Blade vs Pulsar 125 – Which One to Choose?
Choosing between the Honda X Blade and the Bajaj Pulsar 125 depends on individual preferences and requirements. If you prioritize refinement, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride, the Honda X Blade is an excellent choice. However, if you seek a more sporty and engaging riding experience at a more affordable price, the Bajaj Pulsar 125 is a compelling option.
Top Questions Asked
1. Which motorcycle has a more powerful engine?
The Honda X Blade has a slightly more powerful engine with 13.63bhp compared to the Pulsar 125’s 11.8bhp.
2. Which motorcycle is more fuel-efficient?
The Honda X Blade is more fuel-efficient, delivering an average mileage of 55-60kmpl compared to the Pulsar 125’s 45-50kmpl.
3. Which motorcycle is more expensive?
The Honda X Blade is more expensive than the Bajaj Pulsar 125, with a starting price of around INR 1.25 lakhs compared to the Pulsar 125’s INR 90,000.
4. Which motorcycle has more features?
The Honda X Blade has more features, including an engine kill switch, gear position indicator, side stand indicator, and optional HSTC system.
5. Which motorcycle is more comfortable to ride?
The Honda X Blade offers a more comfortable ride with its well-damped suspension and upright seating position.