The 2019 Bajaj Pulsar 220F ABS will reportedly be priced at a premium of around Rs. 7,600 when compared to the non-ABS version
Two-wheeler brands are braced for an increase in prices across their range due to the implementation of standard ABS system for complying with forthcoming government regulation effective from April 1, 2019. The mandate states that all bike models above 125 cc should be equipped with ABS.
It is already put in place for the new launches from April 1, 2018 while the existing models must have ABS by April 1, 2019. For motorcycles or scooters below 125 cc engine capacity, manufacturers have the option to equip them with either ABS or CBS to be deemed legal on roads.
Bajaj Auto was one of the first responders when BSIV emission regulations came in, and it has also fast-paced its efforts ahead of the ABS rule, as the updated motorcycles have started reaching dealerships across India. The spy pictures caught at dealer yards do suggest that the ABS-equipped Pulsar and Avenger range are just weeks away from the delivery phase.
However, their prices have not been divulged yet officially and only select dealerships are reportedly taking orders. Bajaj is pursuing the strategy of employing a single-channel ABS system across Pulsar and Avenger motorcycles because it does not want to lose the competitive price advantage it has over rivals.
Compared to the dual-channel ABS system, the price hike will be fairly minimal. A recent report indicates that the top-selling Pulsar 220F will have a premium of around Rs. 7,600 by carrying Rs. 1,05,254 price tag (ex-showroom, Pune). The non-ABS variant is sold at Rs. 97,670 currently (ex-showroom, Pune).
Glancing over other motorcycles in the entry-level sporty Pulsar fleet like Pulsar 180, 150 Classic and Twin Disc, we can expect a similar price increase. The addition of Rear Lift-off Protection (RLP) should prevent the rear wheel from lifting during emergency braking as wheel lockup is possible due to the presence of front ABS.
The 2019 Bajaj Pulsar 220F gets cosmetic updates and an engine cowl while the powertrain mated to a five-speed transmission remains the same. The 220 cc twin-spark oil-cooled DTS-i engine produces 20.93 PS at 8,500 rpm and 18.55 Nm of peak torque delivered at 7,000 rpm.