Bajaj readies major overhaul of Pulsar 125 and 150 to win back market share
Bajaj Auto is redesigning the Pulsar 125 and 150 as domestic sales slip and rivals like the TVS Raider gain ground, even as exports hit record highs.
The Bajaj Pulsar brand, which has completed nearly 25 years in the Indian motorcycle market, is facing stiff competition. Domestic sales are under pressure, but exports are rising fast. With this in mind, Bajaj Auto is preparing to launch new versions of its popular Pulsar 125 and Pulsar 150. Both bikes will keep their familiar classic look, but major changes are being made to the platform and mechanical parts.
The 125cc segment is counted among India's biggest motorcycle markets. Between April and August 2026, Honda led the segment by selling 17.79 lakh units, while Bajaj sold 7.93 lakh units. Hero sold 6.17 lakh units and TVS sold 4.27 lakh units. During this period, sales of the Bajaj Pulsar 125 fell by 3 percent, while sales of the TVS Raider rose by 7 percent. Due to their sporty design and features, the Raider as well as bikes like the Hero Xtreme 125R are adding to the Pulsar's troubles.
The situation has also changed in the 150cc segment. Between April and August 2026, domestic sales in the 125cc-150cc segment grew by 49.5 percent, but Bajaj's sales fell by around 34 percent during the same period. As a result, Bajaj's market share in this segment dropped to around 18 percent. 125cc bikes are now getting more features, while 160cc motorcycles are offering stronger performance at lower prices. This is why the Pulsar 150 is struggling to hold its ground.
Even though domestic sales may be down, exports remain a big support for Bajaj. In financial year 2026, the company exported 22.50 lakh vehicles, up 20.8 percent from the previous year. Motorcycle exports rose by around 17 percent during this period. Pulsar exports rose 18 percent, reaching their highest-ever level. It is hoped that the new Pulsar 125 and 150 will boost Bajaj's success both in the domestic market and abroad.
