First Ride: The new Bajaj Auto Discover 150 DTSi

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.

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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.