The Indian motorcycle market has witnessed countless models come and go, but only a few have managed to etch their legacy into the hearts of bike enthusiasts. One such icon is the Bajaj Pulsar 220 F. Known as the “Fastest Indian” at the time of its launch, this machine has become more than just a motorcycle — it’s an emotion for millions. Even in the era of high-performance bikes, the Pulsar 220 F continues to hold its ground with a loyal fanbase.
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History of the Bajaj Pulsar 220 F
When Bajaj Auto launched the Pulsar range in 2001, it revolutionized the Indian biking scene. The brand introduced performance bikes that were affordable, stylish, and robust. In 2007, the Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi became India’s first fuel-injected bike and soon turned into a favorite for speed lovers.
Later, Bajaj dropped the fuel injection in favor of a carbureted version, which was more economical and easier to maintain. This carbureted Pulsar 220 F became a national sensation. Its half-fairing design, projector headlamps, and aggressive stance gave it a sportbike appeal — something unseen in its price segment at the time.
Even as the market evolved, Bajaj continued to update the Pulsar 220 F with BS4 and BS6-compliant engines, ensuring it stays relevant.
Bajaj Pulsar 220 F: Specifications
Here are the key technical specifications of the latest Bajaj Pulsar 220 F:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 220cc, 4-stroke, oil-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Power | 20.4 PS @ 8500 rpm |
| Torque | 18.55 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Cooling | Oil Cooled |
| Brakes | Disc (Front & Rear) |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic with anti-friction bush |
| Rear Suspension | 5-way adjustable Nitrox shock absorber |
| Tyres | Tubeless |
| Kerb Weight | 160 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 liters |
| Mileage | Approx. 35-40 km/l |
Design and Styling
Even after all these years, the Bajaj Pulsar 220 F retains its muscular and sporty appeal. It features:
- Dual-tone color schemes with bold graphics
- Semi-faired body design for wind protection during high-speed touring
- Projector headlamp setup — rare even in today’s 150–200cc bikes
- Stylish LED tail lamp and sharp indicators
- Sporty split seats and clip-on handlebars
- Matte black engine casing and exhaust for added ruggedness
Though its design hasn’t drastically changed over the years, Bajaj keeps refreshing it with new decals and colors to keep the bike visually appealing.
Engine Performance
At the heart of the Pulsar 220 F lies its refined 220cc oil-cooled engine. Despite newer and more advanced competitors, the engine still offers:
- Punchy mid-range performance
- Linear power delivery
- Excellent highway cruising capability
Its 20.4 PS of power and 18.55 Nm torque make it one of the most powerful bikes in its segment. The acceleration is brisk, and overtaking on highways feels effortless. Even with a 5-speed gearbox, the gear ratios are well-spaced, providing a smooth riding experience.
Riding Experience
Whether you’re commuting within the city or planning a long highway ride, the Pulsar 220 F delivers:
- Comfortable upright riding posture
- Good wind protection from the semi-fairing
- Responsive brakes with front and rear disc setup
- Adequate grip from wide tubeless tyres
- Stable ride even at triple-digit speeds
The 5-way adjustable Nitrox rear suspension ensures a plush ride over bad roads and potholes. Riders often appreciate the bike’s balanced handling and road presence.
Features and Equipment
While not loaded with modern-day tech like TFT displays or Bluetooth connectivity, the Pulsar 220 F does offer:
- Analog-digital instrument console
- Digital speedometer
- Analog tachometer
- Trip meter and fuel gauge
- Clip-on handlebars for sporty feel
- Electric start
- Projector headlamp with AHO (Auto Headlamp On)
- Engine kill switch
Bajaj’s focus has always been on performance and utility over fancy tech, which is why the Pulsar 220 F remains simple but purposeful.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
In real-world conditions, the Pulsar 220 F delivers around 35 to 40 km/l, depending on the riding style and traffic conditions. Given its performance level, this fuel efficiency is respectable and makes it suitable for daily use as well as touring.
Maintenance and Reliability
One of the major reasons behind the Pulsar 220 F’s long-standing success is its low maintenance cost and high reliability.
- Spare parts are widely available and affordable.
- Bajaj has a strong service network across India.
- The engine is robust and can withstand rough usage.
Riders often claim their Pulsar 220 F runs smoothly even after 60,000 to 70,000 km, which speaks volumes about its build quality.
Pricing and Variants
As of 2025, the Bajaj Pulsar 220 F is priced at approximately ₹1.42 lakh (ex-showroom). It is available in a single variant, but comes with a few different color options.
Color options may include:
- Black with Blue
- Black with Red
- Blue with Silver
Bajaj has occasionally released special editions of the Pulsar 220 F to keep the buzz alive.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful and reliable engine
- Proven touring capabilities
- Iconic and muscular design
- Affordable maintenance
- High resale value
Cons:
- Outdated instrument console
- No ABS in earlier versions
- Heavier than newer competitors
- Lacks modern tech like LED headlamp, ride modes, etc.
Pulsar 220 F vs Rivals
Let’s compare the Bajaj Pulsar 220 F with some of its key competitors:
| Bike | Engine | Power | Price (Ex-Showroom) | USP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pulsar 220 F | 220cc | 20.4 PS | ₹1.42 lakh | Proven tourer with projector headlamp |
| TVS Apache RTR 200 4V | 197.75cc | 20.82 PS | ₹1.52 lakh | Modern tech, ride modes |
| Yamaha FZ25 | 249cc | 20.8 PS | ₹1.51 lakh | Smooth engine, LED lighting |
| Hero Xtreme 200S 4V | 199.6cc | 19.1 PS | ₹1.41 lakh | Fully-faired with Bluetooth |
While competitors offer more features, the Pulsar 220 F wins in legacy, reliability, and highway touring capability.
Is the Bajaj Pulsar 220 F Still Worth Buying in 2025?
Absolutely! Even though it may not offer cutting-edge technology, the Pulsar 220 F still delivers solid performance, dependability, and comfort. For those who prefer old-school raw biking fun with a bit of practicality, it’s a gem.
If you’re a fan of:
- Long weekend rides
- Robust, proven motorcycles
- Easy-to-maintain machines
Then the Bajaj Pulsar 220 F remains a worthy choice.
What’s Next for the Pulsar 220 F?
There have been speculations about Bajaj discontinuing the 220 F due to BS6 Phase-2 and newer models like the Pulsar N250 and F250. However, due to its cult following, Bajaj has continued to sell the 220 F in select regions.
Still, 2025 might be the year Bajaj finally bids goodbye to this icon. If you’ve ever dreamt of owning one, now might be your last chance.
Conclusion
The Bajaj Pulsar 220 F is not just a motorcycle — it’s a part of India’s biking heritage. With its powerful engine, iconic looks, and a loyal fanbase, it has stood the test of time. Even in 2025, it offers great value for money, especially for riders looking for a reliable and thrilling ride without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a returning Pulsar fan, the Pulsar 220 F deserves your attention. It’s a living legend — and legends never die.
