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Choosing the right tyre is crucial for your Pulsar 150 or 180. Here is a detailed comparison of the best options for performance (grip) versus longevity (mileage).
What matters more on your Pulsar: lower running costs or sharper handling? Tyres heavily influence both. The right set can lift confidence in corners, shorten braking distance, and help save money at the pump. The wrong set feels vague, skittish, or wears out too soon.
This guide compares the best options for Bajaj Pulsar 150 and 180 riders and explains the trade-off between grip and life. You will see where each tyre sits on the mileage to grip scale, and who it suits best.
For size reference, common fitments of your Pulsar bike tyre are:
- Pulsar 150 tyre size: Front 80/100-17, Rear 100/90-17 or 120/80-17
- Pulsar 180 tyre size: Front 90/90-17, Rear 120/80-17
Always check your exact variant and rim size before buying.
The Great Tyre Trade-Off: Mileage vs. Grip
Tyre choice is a balancing act. Harder compounds roll longer, resist punctures, and last more kilometres. Softer compounds warm up quicker, grip harder, and brake better. You rarely get both in full measure.
Think of it like shoe soles. A tough sole survives years of walking but can feel stiff on wet tiles. A softer sole grips like glue, yet wears quickly. Your riding habits and preferences can help decide what works better for you.
Mileage-Focused Tyres
Mileage-oriented tyres use harder rubber with slower wear. Treads are often simpler and slightly shallower, which can cut rolling resistance and help fuel economy. They are built for the daily grind, heat, dust, and long commutes.
Best for:
- Riders commuting long distances weekly
- Riders who tour on highways
- Riders who expect frequent punctures due to the road conditions
Expect calm handling and predictable behaviour. Absolute dry grip is not the goal; Instead, safety, steadiness, and durability are attributes to look for.
Grip-Focused (Performance) Tyres
Performance tyres use softer rubber and more aggressive patterns. They provide stronger cornering stability and sharper wet and dry braking. They can transform how your Pulsar turns in and feels mid-corner.
Best for:
- Enthusiasts who enjoy brisk weekend rides
- Urban riders who want shorter stopping distances in traffic
- Anyone who rides in wet weather and values traction
The trade-off is higher wear and often a slightly higher price. If safety and feel come first, they are worth it.
Top 5 Tyres for the Pulsar 150 and Pulsar 180: Best in Class
Below is a curated list covering a range of the best Pulsar tyres.
- MRF Zapper C, MRF Zapper Q, MRF Zapper S Series – Performance/All-Round
MRF Zapper tyres are common upgrades for Pulsar riders. They balance grip and life well, and are easy to source across India.
- Character: Neutral steering, good straight-line stability, reliable wet traction for daily use
- Best for: Mixed city and highway riding, riders who want an all-rounder
- Sizes: Pulsar-compatible sizes in both front and rear
- Why pick it: Affordable and trustworthy on typical Indian roads
- CEAT Zoom Plus, CEAT Zoom X3 Series – All-Round/Mileage
CEAT Zoom and Zoom Plus aim for durability without giving up everyday grip. They suit riders who rack up kilometres and still want clean braking in the wet.
- Character: Stable at commuting speeds, controlled wear, steady wet braking
- Best for: Daily commuters and light tourers
- Sizes: Common Pulsar fitments available
- Why pick it: Good life and comfort with safe, predictable handling
- Michelin Pilot Street – Performance/Premium
Michelin Pilot Street is renowned for its precise feel and strong grip in both dry and wet conditions. The rubber compound and tread design offer a level of confidence that shows in corners and under hard braking.
- Character: Smooth turn-in, composed mid-corner grip, strong wet performance
- Best for: Enthusiastic riders who value feel and safety
- Sizes: Available in Pulsar front and rear sizes
- Why pick it: Superior grip and feedback
- Apollo Actizip, Apollo Actigrip – Mileage/Reliability
Apollo’s Actizip and Actigrip lines focus on long life and puncture resistance. Many riders choose them when running costs matter most.
- Character: Durable compound, decent wet traction, calm behaviour on highways
- Best for: High-mileage riders, delivery and office commute duty
- Sizes: Wide availability for Pulsar fitments
- Why pick it: Strong cost-per-km and easy nationwide support
Eurogrip’s latest range is worth a closer look, especially if you want value without compromise. Between Pancer and Protorq Sport SR, most Pulsar riders will find a match that fits their use.
Eurogrip Pancer
Pancer stands out for riders who want dependable tyres that do not wear out fast.
- Value proposition: Strong durability at a competitive price, with a steady grip in daily use
- Compound and design: Engineered for longevity and consistent wet and dry traction, with patterns that clear water well
- Ride feel: Stable on highways, secure under braking, and predictable in traffic
- Pulsar fit: Works well on Pulsar 150 and 180 for city and mixed city-highway duty
If you commute daily, face rough patches, or ride with a pillion often, Pancer gives peace of mind without draining the wallet.
Protorq Sport SR
The Eurogrip Protorq Sport SR is crafted for sporty riders. It focuses on high-speed stability and strong cornering grip.
- Value proposition: You get sharp grip, quick response, and solid durability. It works well if you corner fast, ride in mixed conditions, and need track-style feel with day-to-day comfort.
- Compound and design: Uses a directional tread pattern for a smooth, calm ride. A rounded shoulder holds the line in turns.
- Ride feel: The tread compound balances grip, mileage, and long life.
- Pulsar fit: It pairs well with the Pulsar 150 and Pulsar 180 because it matches their lively handling, adds stable braking and cornering, and copes with daily commutes as well as weekend sprints.
If you want a high-performance tyre for sport and hard riding, this is the one to go for.
Quick Comparison: Grip vs Mileage Focus
| Tyre Model | Focus | Suits Pulsar 150/180 | Notes |
| MRF Zapper C, MRF Zapper Q, MRF Zapper S | Balanced | Yes | Easy to source, solid all-round choice |
| CEAT Zoom Plus, CEAT Zoom X3 | Mileage leaning | Yes | Good life and comfort |
| Michelin Pilot Street | Grip leaning | Yes | Premium feel, strong wet grip |
| Apollo Actizip, Apollo Actigrip | Mileage | Yes | Durable, budget friendly |
| Eurogrip Protorq Sport SR | Grip | Yes | Sporty handling, city friendly |
| Eurogrip Pancer | Mileage balanced | Yes | Value pick for long life |
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Detailed Tyre Comparison Table
| Tyre Model (Front/Rear) | Tyre Size (Common Fitment) | Primary Focus | Key Features & Benefits | Approx. Price (Rs) |
| Eurogrip Protorq/Pancer (Rear) | 100/90 R17 or 120/80 R17 | Mileage & Durability | High rubber mass for long life, robust construction for Indian roads, stable handling. | Rs 2,000 – Rs 3,500 |
| MRF Zapper (Front and Rear) | 90/90 R17 and 100/90 R17 or 120/80 R17 | High Grip & Cornering | Soft compound, aggressive tread, exceptional cornering and wet grip, great for performance riding. | Rs 2,500 – Rs 3,000 |
| CEAT Zoom X3 (Front & Rear) | 90/90 R17 and 120/80 R17 | Balanced All-Round | Good mix of grip and mileage, reliable wet-weather performance, widely available. | Rs 1,500 – Rs 2,500 |
| Michelin Pilot Street 2 (Front & Rear) | 80/100 R17 or 90/90 R17 and 100/90 R17 | Premium Grip & Durability | Excellent water evacuation, long-lasting compound for a performance tyre, superior braking. | Rs 2,000 – Rs 3,500 |
| Apollo Actizip R3 (Front & Rear) | 80/100 R17 and 100/90 R17 | Mileage & Cost-Effective | Good mileage, high resistance to cuts and punctures, economical choice for commuters. | Rs 1,500 – Rs 2,500 |
Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change based on variant, location, and retailer.
Sizing Tips and Practical Advice
Fit the right size for your rim. Oversizing the rear can blunt acceleration and add weight. Undersizing can reduce the contact patch and stability.
- Pulsar 150 tyres (stock): Front 80/100-17, Rear 100/90-17 or 120/80-17
- Pulsar 180 tyres (stock): Front 90/90-17, Rear 120/80-17
A few practical checks before buying:
- Check the DOT date and pick the recent stock
- Inspect sidewalls for cuts or repairs
- Ask for tubeless if your rim supports it
- Run the correct pressure, usually on your swingarm sticker or manual
- Rebalance wheels after fitment for a smoother ride
Real-World Signals You Chose Right
The right tyre makes your Pulsar calmer and safer.
- Shorter, straighter stops in the wet
- Less weave at 70 to 90 kmph
- Clean turn-in without a sudden drop
- Even wear across the tread
If you feel a constant skitter on painted lines, or your rear needs a significant lean to turn, your compound or profile may not be suitable for your use or pressure.
Conclusion
There is no single best tyre for every Pulsar. The best choice depends on whether you value lifespan or grip more. For long life and low running costs, look at Apollo Actizip or Eurogrip Pancer. For sharper handling and safety in mixed weather, consider MRF Zapper or Michelin Pilot Street.
Keep pressures spot on, check tread monthly, and your tyre will deliver its promised performance.
