Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs KTM Duke 250 Spec Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?

Bajaj Auto has launched the 2024 version of the Pulsar N250 in the Indian market. Introduced first in November 2021, the Pulsar N250 now comes with a bunch of significant updates, including an upside-down fork, a new digital display, and wider tyres. The upgrades put the Pulsar N250 down for comparison with the KTM 250 Duke, TVS Apache RTR 200 4V, and Suzuki Gixxer 250. Here, we stack up the refreshed Pulsar N250 (Rs 1.51 lakh) against the third-generation 250 Duke (Rs 2.39 lakh), which KTM launched in September 2023. Both prices mentioned in the bracket are ex-showroom. 

Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs KTM Duke 250: Design

Overall, the updated Pulsar N250's design remains almost untouched and continues to be striking with a circular LED projector headlamp flanked by two LED daytime running lights, as well as a sleek tail section with a split LED tail-lamp. However, the bike does get a couple of changes, including wider tyres (by 10mm), a gold finish on a 37mm upside-down fork, and new graphics on the fuel tank and the cowl. Bajaj's updated Pulsar N250 comes in three colours now – Black, Red, and White. 

For the KTM 250 Duke as well, three colour options are available: Ceramic White, Electronic Orange, and dual-tone Black and Blue. But, this bike gets a split-type LED headlamp setup, a painted headlight surround, a muscular-looking fuel tank with sharper extensions, and the same alloy wheels as the 2024 KTM 390 Duke. There are some changes to its bodywork, similar to the 1290 Super Duke.

Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs KTM Duke 250: Features

Here, the upgrade to the N250 is in the form of a fully digital LCD unit that supports Bluetooth and turn-by-turn navigation. Also, you get traction control, dual-channel ABS (anti-lock braking system) as standard, and three ABS modes – Rain, Road and Off-Road, each altering the level of ABS intervention. 

Meanwhile, the KTM 250 Duke comes with an all-new 5.0-inch LCD screen, which is paired with a new switch cube with 4-way menu switches. This allows easy interaction with features like Bluetooth connectivity, music control, incoming call alerts, call and audio control, and turn-by-turn navigation. Other features include a ride-by-wire throttle system, a quick shifter, and a slipper clutch. Dual-channel ABS is also available. 

Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs KTM Duke 250: Engine

The same 249.07cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine rated for 24.1bhp and 21.5Nm powers the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N250. It comes mated to a five-speed gearbox assisted by an assist and slipper clutch. However, this mill is less powerful and torquey compared to a redesigned 249cc engine used by the KTM 250 Duke. Called the LC4c, this all-new single-cylinder unit makes 31bhp and 25Nm of peak torque. The transmission duties of this bike are taken care of by a 6-speed unit. 

Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs KTM Duke 250: Hardware

For suspension, both bikes use an upside-down fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. However, the N250 has a tubular steel frame, whereas the 250 Duke features a trellis steel frame. The braking setup of both bikes incorporates a disc brake at either end, mounted on a pair of 17-inch alloy wheels.