Bajaj Auto's
latest offering, the new Discover 150 DTSi claims to have mastered the
art of balancing mileage and performance, which are two determining
factors in the entry-level 150cc segment. ZigWheels brings you the first
impressions of this power-commuter!
Last year Bajaj Auto
hit the high notes with their Discover 100 DTS-Si entry-level
motorcycle, which not only raked in solid sales figures but also helped
the company in further establishing the Discover brand across the
country. In order to capitalize with the on-going momentum of the
Discover brand, Bajaj Auto has launched the new bigger Discover 150 DTSi
staying in tune with the value-for-money aspect of the Discover brand
with a corresponding price benefit. This latest entrant from Bajaj Auto
is not only lavishly feature-packed but it also offers a fine mix of
fuel economy and performance to suit its power-commuter image.
The styling on the biggest Discover is in-line with its smaller
siblings like all-black engine and frame coupled with identical body
panels and the same-old bikini fairing upfront. The graphics on the tank
and body panels are revised making the bike look more contemporary as
well as giving it a slightly more robust look. Apart from these Bajaj
Auto has not tampered with the exteriors of the Discover 150 DTSi in
order to stay committed with the Discover brand.
There is a lot more to the new Discover 150 DTSi than just mere
sticker jobs. The potency of the new Discover 150 DTSi lies with its
increased engine capacity as well as improved handling dynamics thanks
to its longer wheelbase and wider rear tyre - that gives it the
sure-footedness often kept limited to premium motorcycles. These
handling benefits make for a much planted feel and comfortable riding
experience, especially for commuters who have considerable distances to
clock on daily basis. The saddle is comfy, large and wide for long hauls
while the overall riding position is suitable for riders of different
physiques. Add to that the light front-end and raised handlebars that
make it a breeze to put the Discover 150 DTSi through tight spots on our
crowded city streets.
The 144.8cc mill of the new Discover 150 DTSi is a long stroke engine
with bore into stroke configuration of 56mm x 58.8mm. The powerplant
makes 13PS of power at 7,500rpm and 12.75Nm of torque available low down
from 5,500rpm. The power is transferred to the rear wheel via a 5-speed
transmission with an all-down shift pattern that has very smooth and
precise shifts. The motor is packaged inside a single downtube cradle
frame assisted by a 130mm telescopic suspension upfront and gas-charged
Nitrox hydraulic suspension on the rear. Couple the up-to-date equipment
with the sticky MRF tyres on both ends and what you get is a
well-heeled motorcycle that can deal with our pot-hole ridden roads with
solid conviction.
On hand from low down the rev-range, the power delivery is creamy
smooth and precise. Rideability is a forte of the new Discover 150 DTSi
as it does an exceptional job of running around the city at 30km/h
slotted in 5th gear. Thanks to the urgent power delivery and
well-configured gear ratios, the bike lurches forward with efficiency
that is crucial for quick city traffic overtakes. The 12.75Nm of torque
is also extremely helpful when carrying a pillion and it actually
requires lesser dancing on the gear lever in order to keep the power
handy.
Available as standard fitment, the front disc brake has superb bite
and provides accurate feedback making it extremely easy and comforting
to bring the Discover 150 DTSi to a halt with swiftness without
upsetting the motorcycle. Talking about standard fitment, Bajaj Auto has
once again beaten its competition by offering supreme bang-for-the-buck
on the Discover 150 DTSi with standard features such as an electric
starter, alloy wheels, auto-choke and maintenance-free battery at an
incredible price advantage.
With an unbelievably attractive price tag of Rs. 46,000 (ex-showroom,
Delhi), the Discover 150 DTSi is cheaper than most 125cc motorcycles
available in the market today.
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