Value bristles through on the Bajaj Pulsar DTS-i 150 for one and all to note. Gas-filled rear shock absorbers, a broader rear tyre section, self-starter and even alloy rims make this motorcycle a far cry from its earlier ‘avatar’. The only sizeable dent in all the value the Pulsar offers is a disappointing gearshift.

The usual, inexcusable waiting period for the Unicorn and its lack of a much-needed self-starter are blatant advantages Honda is taking of the Unicorn's novel appeal in its honeymoon period. How long will potential buyers bear these injustices for the sake of possessing a slice of the wings of change?

However, we must add, in all fairness, that both contestants are fine motorcycles and the really daunting part of the test lay in choosing one winner from these two terrific machines. Let's put it like this — no buyer will go wrong on either machine but our trophy goes to Honda’s clean and really refined engineering. The Pulsar drops by a whisker as the undisputed 150cc number one in our books, to one ever-so-narrow notch from the top, while Honda raises itself there by virtue of a flawless engine, and a commendable riding experience.

TESTERS NOTES
The new Bajaj offers super feel through its brake lever.
Honda’s lack of a self-starter is a crying shame.
Pulsar’s six-spoke alloy rims improve on super style.
Unicorn engine is extremely refined and satin-smooth.