New KTM 200 Duke vs Bajaj Pulsar NS200 BS6 : Competition Check

The KTM 200 Duke and Bajaj Pulsar NS200 rivalry goes back to 2012, the year both bikes were introduced. However, the NS200 was discontinued three years later and relaunched in 2017.

Nevertheless, the 200 Duke stayed at the top of the game, raking in good numbers for KTM. Recently, both bikes received updates. While the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 got aan environment-friendly engine, KTM took the opportunity to completely overhaul the 200 Duke. Here, we take a look at how the streetfighters fare against each other in this on-paper comparison.

Styling 

Bajaj has barely tinkered with the design of the Pulsar 200 since its inception. The bike gets an aggressively-styled headlamp which matches the rest of its sharp and edgy bodywork. On the other hand, the new KTM 200 Duke is unrecognizable when compared to the previous model. It gets sharp tank shrouds with bold graphics, a new headlamp design with LED DRL and an all-new tail section that is fitted on a new sub-frame.

The Pulsar NS200 is offered in three dual-tone colours of black/grey, white/grey and red/grey. Meanwhile, the KTM 200 Duke is available in white/black and orange/black options.

Features 

In terms of features, KTM has equipped the 200 Duke with the same LCD as the previous model. However, the unit gets a minutely revised layout. In addition to that, it also gets an LED DRL apart from the LED tail lamp and turn signals. The Pulsar NS200 comes with a semi-digital instrument cluster that has remained unchanged since 2012. And while it misses out on LED lighting for the headlamp, it gets LED turn signals and tail lamp.

Furthermore, the KTM 200 Duke offers a bigger 13.5-litre fuel tank as against the 12-litre fuel tank on the Pulsar NS200

Engine

The Pulsar NS200’s 199cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, and fuel-injected engine is borrowed from the KTM 200 Duke. However, Bajaj has retuned the motor to produce 24.2bhp and 18.5Nm. This is 0.8bhp and 1Nm lesser than the KTM 200 Duke’s 25bhp and 19.5Nm output. Nonetheless, both motors come mated to a six-speed gearbox.

Cycle parts

The Pulsar NS200 and KTM 200 Duke ride on 17-inch wheels at both ends. The braking hardware is almost similar- a 300mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc; although the KTM gets a dual-channel ABS as compared to Pulsar’s single-channel ABS.

The KTM 200 Duke also has an upper hand when it comes to suspension hardware. It uses 43mm, inverted forks up front while the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 gets telescopic forks. Moreover, the KTM 200 Duke is also around 4kg lighter than the Pulsar NS200 which tips the scales at 154kg.

Pricing

The KTM 200 Duke, thanks to better quality components and more features, demands a price of Rs 1.72 lakh. On the other hand, the Pulsar NS200 is around Rs 50,000 more affordable and is priced at Rs 1.25 lakh. (both prices, ex-showroom)