Ever since its introduction in 2001, the Pulsar range has redefined Bajaj Auto’s standing in the Indian two-wheeler market. By April 2012, more than five million units were sold. By 2018, the company celebrated by selling over 10 million Pulsars.
Two very successful bikes available in the Pulsar range are the Bajaj Pulsar 180F and the Bajaj Pulsar 220. Both bikes are in the 1 lakh price range. The 180 F has an ex-showroom price of Rs 96,390*, and the Pulsar 220 has an ex-showroom price of Rs 1.08 lakh*.
The Pulsar 220 F is powered by a 220 cc fuel-injected engine that outputs 20.93 PS of power at 8500 rpm and can produce 18.55 Nm of torque at 7500 rpm. The Pulsar 180 F is powered by a 178.6 cc fuel-injected engine that outputs 14.22 PS of power at 6500 rpm and can produce 17.02 Nm of torque at 8500 rpm.
The Bajaj Pulsar 180F wins in the contest for fuel-efficiency beating the Pulsar 220 F’s 40 kmpl with a mileage of 47.6 kmpl in city usage. Both of these Bajaj bikes come with 15 L fuel tanks. It means that you can comfortably use them for travelling in city areas.
Both bikes come equipped with Bajaj’s stock manual 5-speed gearbox. The Pulsar 180 F gets its DNA from the 220 F. As a result, both bikes come with a telescopic with anti-friction bush in the front wheel and a five-way adjustable Nitrox shock absorber in the rear.
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Both bikes come equipped with a digital odometer, a digital speedometer, and trip meter. They have a self-start option as well. The 180 F, however, comes with an analogue tachometer. Despite having a mostly digital setup, the 180F’s instrument console is dated and has a lacklustre performance. The Bajaj Pulsar 220 F, on the other hand, has more up to date electronics.
Bajaj has also given the Pulsar 180 some subtle styling updates and new features. It was done in the form of a brand new digital instrument console, a redesigned fuel tank lid as well as LED tail lamps.
The 220 F was once considered one of the fastest Indian bikes in the market. It is popular because of its performance-focused design, as well as its striking visuals. The bike is ideal for pillion riders as well coming with split seats and rear grab rails. The front lights are LED-based, and the clip-on handlebars make highway driving a more pleasurable experience.
The Pulsar 180 has been in the market for several years. It has also seen some subtle improvements to its visuals over this time. To give the 180 a more modern look, Bajaj has paired the fairing of the 220 F with the 180 and calls it the new Pulsar 180 F. Other visual additions include a step seat addition as well as fresh new decals.
There is no doubt that when comparing the old with the new, people will always tend to favour the more modern bikes. However, when it comes to the Bajaj Pulsar 180F vs Bajaj Pulsar 220 debate, one must say that the older 180F has put up a great fight.
Better mileage in the city makes the older model a favourite for customers looking for a bike that can get them from point A to B at a minimal cost. However, the fresher looks and design tilt the argument in favour of the Bajaj Pulsar 220F.
Though both the bikes target more or less the same customer segment, those interested in fully-faired sporty looking bikes might consider going for the 220F. In contrast, those looking for a powerful and muscular commuter bike can pick the 180F.
