You’d be forgiven if you mistake the NS125 for its other siblings at first glance. After all, they all look like someone pressed the copy button more times than they should have. So it gets the recognizable ‘Bumblebee’ style headlamp, brawny-looking fuel tank, and the sharp tail section with the split seat and signature split tail lamp.

Although to distinguish one from another, Bajaj has adorned the NS125 with this orange shade that also has a slight tint of red and looks cool under direct sunlight. There also is the NS125 logo, just in case you forget which NS model you are looking at.

The Pulsar NS125’s ergonomics is the first step to define it as a sporty commuter. It offers a slightly committed riding position that is engaging yet comfortable and even allows one to tuck in with ease. And while the 805mm seat height is the tallest in its class, it shouldn’t be an issue for short riders. For reference, I am 5’7’’ and had no trouble planting both feet on the ground.

Adding some more spice to the NS125’s ride quality is the bike’s performance. Now with an 11.6bhp and 11Nm output, the 124cc, air-cooled engine isn’t big on numbers. However, it compensates fully with its enthusiastic nature. Before I tell you how it performs, let’s listen to what it sounds like.

When it comes to features on the NS125, you get a part analogue, part digital display, backlit switchgear, an LED tail lamp, and as mandated, a combined braking system as standard. And even though most of these features are the same as NS160 and NS200, it still does not put the NS125 above other 125cc offerings. However, the five-step adjustable monoshock it rides on is the only thing we found that truly differentiates the NS125 from the rest of the segment.

On our test route that combines heavy traffic, and open stretches of road, the Pulsar NS125 returned an impressive mileage of 46.9kmpl. So, with its fuel tank capacity of 12-litres, the motorcycle could go roughly 562kms before needing to refuel.

Let’s get straight to it. Should you consider buying the Pulsar NS125? Well, It makes a strong case for itself with a smooth and sprightly engine that offers good mileage and excellent handling. That said, with a price tag of Rs 98,234, it also makes sense for someone that would not want to shell out Rs 1.60 lakh for the KTM 125 Duke. (all prices ex-showroom)

And with a sharp styling unlike traditional commuters like the Pulsar 125 and Honda Shine SP, the NS125 has greater appeal. However, it could be an even better package with improvement to its ride quality and braking hardware as well as an update to its list of features.