Bajaj pulasr 220F: It’s more than just a motorcycle, it’s an epitome of performance on Indian roads. This legendary bike from over a decade ago has set a new definition for performance bikes in the budget category.
Despite new bikes arriving every year, the 220F has stayed relevant with its unique semi-fairing design, solid performance and loyal fan base.
As it stands, if all you’re looking for is a butch yet practical motorcycle that you can rely on daily between the office and the nearest twisties, fancying yourself a weekend warrior, the Pulsar 220F remains a top draw.
A Design That Stands Out
Although naked streetfighter is the trend today for most bikes, the Pulsar 220F still retains its semi-faired bike charm and uniqueness, which sets it apart.
It gets twin-projector headlamps, a sporty windscreen, a pointed side fairing and a beefy fuel tank giving an aggressive yet chic stance.
Visually, the 220F hasn’t aged whereas everything else has. It remains sporty, thanks to the dual-tone color schemes, minimal graphics and the signature Pulsar tail lamp that still please quite a few riders out there.
There’s lots of good vibes, the bike feels planted, with an aggressive road presence that’s difficult to find even on some 150 cc, and maybe even 200 cc motorcycles.
Performance and handling
It is powered by a 220cc oil-cooled single-cylinder engine which churns out around 20.4 PS of power and 18.5 Nm of torque.
It is paired to a 5-speed gearbox and turns out a decent mix of power and efficiency.
What distinguishes the bike is its midrange punch — it feels enthusiastic on the open road and pulls strongly without requiring to be thrashed.
The engine emits a gruff, throaty growl that adds a commanding and sporty feel to the rider’s experience.
Good traction and controllable riding dynamics. Its telescopic front forks, twin rear shocks and wide tyres make for comfortable passage over uneven terrain, and its large rubber and disc brakes at both ends for plenty of grip and stopping power.
It’s also a very forgiving bike so even if you’re an intermediate rider looking to get into full sus this is a great option.
Comfort and Features
Pulsar 220F holds good when it comes to rider comfort. The sitting posture is also upright, the footpegs are mildly set rear-ward and there is a well-padded seat, which makes it perfect for long distance touring.
Additionally, the fairing helps reduce wind blast during faster highway riding, an atypical comfort feature in this price range.
The semi-digital console makes known all the necessary details such as speed-rpm-fuel level-trip readings.
It’s maybe not as high-tech as TFT screens and Bluetooth-linked consoles, but it’s solid, practical and it does the job.
While other peripherals like clip-on handle bars, electric start, kill switch for engine and the halogen projector lamps add to the fun and do not make the bike feel too old.
Mileage and Value
And yet, despite its powerful motor, the Pulsar 220F returns good mileage figures. Y
ou can get average 35-40 km/l But it also depends when are you following the traffic in the proper or wrong way. Fuel tank capacity of 15 l offers fairing fuel range that is a good signs for long runs without repeated refuels.
The maintenance price is still much reasonable for a performance bike and the wide service network of Bajaj make ownership easier.
Pros
Powerful and dependable engine power
One of a kind semi-faired with a Bikini fairing, dominating street presence
Comfortable for long rides
Value for money in the 200+cc category
Reliable and easy to service
Cons
Dated instrument cluster by today’s standards
Missing many modern features such as LED lights or connectivity
There hasn’t been much innovation in design over the years
Gearbox is old-school at 5-speed versus 6 on rivals
Not as much for punching through corners.
Bajaj pulasr 220F: Verdict
The Bajaj Pulsar 220F continues to be a strong choice for bikers looking for style, performance and value.
It might not offer all the latest tech bells and whistles, but is compensated by the grunty engine, strong street mood and usability that extends to your everyday ride.
It’s a bike that’s attracting fresh riders while keeping veteran advocates hooked — and that’s no small thing in the current turbulent two-wheeler world.