Indian motorcycle scene has always been dominated by the Bajaj Pulsar, which is basically the go-to for performance, reliability, and not breaking the bank. But now, things are about to get interesting. Here comes the Matter Aera 2024, an electric motorcycle that’s shaking things up by mixing cutting-edge electric tech with the good old excitement of manual riding.
So, India is getting into electric rides, and check this out: the Matter Aera has this cool feature—a manual gearbox in an electric motorcycle! It’s not just about being eco-friendly; it wants to keep that awesome bond between the rider and the bike, kinda like what the Pulsar did for all those years.
But seriously, can the Aera actually take on the Pulsar’s legacy? Let’s jump in and compare these two bikes in terms of performance, tech, features, and bang for your buck to figure out how they measure up.
Matter Aera 2024: A New Era of Motorcycling
Matter Aera 2024 is India’s first geared electric motorcycle, a statement of innovation that merges tradition with future-ready electric tech. It is designed to appeal to those who crave an engaging ride while looking to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle.
Features of Matter Aera:
- Liquid-Cooled Electric Motor: Produces 10.5 kW of peak power (approximately 14 hp).
- 4-Speed Manual Gearbox: The first of its kind in the electric segment.
- Battery Pack: 5 kWh capacity offering a range of 125-150 km on a single charge.
- Charging Options: Supports both standard charging and fast charging.
- 7-Inch Touchscreen Display: Packed with features like navigation, ride stats, and smartphone connectivity.
The inclusion of a manual gearbox makes the Aera stand out in the crowded EV space, offering riders a unique blend of electric efficiency and manual riding fun.
Bajaj Pulsar: The Champion of Legacy and Performance
For years, the Bajaj Pulsar has been the go-to choice for performance seekers and budget-conscious buyers. From the Pulsar 125 for commuters to the sportier NS200 and RS200, the Pulsar lineup covers a wide spectrum of riders.
Why the Pulsar Continues to Dominate:
- Robust Performance: Strong mid-range torque and sporty engine dynamics.
- Affordability: Competitive pricing across all models.
- Fuel Efficiency: Impressive mileage for budget-friendly ownership.
- Service Network: Bajaj’s extensive aftersales support across India.
- Styling: A sporty design language that appeals to young riders.
The Pulsar’s success stems from its ability to offer a perfect mix of performance, reliability, and practicality—something Indian riders value deeply.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Matter Aera vs. Bajaj Pulsar
To help you make an informed choice, here’s a detailed comparison between the Matter Aera 2024 and the Bajaj Pulsar (higher-end models like NS200 and RS200):
| Aspect | Matter Aera 2024 | Bajaj Pulsar (NS200/RS200) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine/Powertrain | 10.5 kW Liquid-Cooled Electric Motor | 199.5cc, single-cylinder engine |
| Power Output | 14 hp | 24.5 hp |
| Gearbox | 4-Speed Manual | 6-Speed Manual |
| Range/Mileage | 125-150 km (single charge) | 35-40 km/l |
| Refueling/Charging | Standard & Fast Charging (EV) | Quick petrol refueling |
| Technology | 7-inch Touchscreen, Smartphone Sync | Semi-digital cluster |
| Features | ABS, OTA Updates, Navigation | ABS, Projector Headlamp |
| Price | ₹1.5 Lakh (Ex-showroom) | ₹1.4-1.6 Lakh (Ex-showroom) |
| Running Costs | ₹0.25-₹0.50/km | ₹2-₹3/km (fuel-dependent) |
| Noise and Vibration | Near-Silent Operation | Moderate vibrations at higher RPMs |
| Environmental Impact | Zero Emission, Eco-Friendly | Emits Carbon, Petrol-Dependent |
Performance: Electric Torque vs. IC Engine Thrills
The Matter Aera delivers instant torque from its electric motor, ensuring quick acceleration, especially in urban environments. On the other hand, the Pulsar NS200/RS200 shines in the mid-range with a sporty, high-revving engine.
The Aera’s 4-speed manual gearbox bridges the gap, offering riders better power control across varying speeds—something traditional EVs lack. This feature brings back the engaging experience of gear shifting, similar to the Pulsar, but with quieter operation and zero emissions.
Range vs. Refueling: Practicality Face-Off
Here’s where the Bajaj Pulsar pulls ahead. Its petrol engine can deliver a range of over 400 km on a full tank, making it ideal for long rides. On the other hand, the Matter Aera’s 125-150 km range caters primarily to urban riders.
However, the Aera counters with lower running costs. Charging an EV costs far less than refueling a petrol bike, translating into significant savings over time.
Technology and Features: Aera Takes the Lead
The Matter Aera leaps ahead with its 7-inch touchscreen display, offering features like:
- Navigation
- Ride statistics
- Smartphone connectivity
It even supports OTA (Over-the-Air) updates, ensuring continuous improvements.
In comparison, the Pulsar NS200 and RS200 feature a basic semi-digital instrument cluster, which, while functional, feels dated in comparison.
Riding Comfort: Electric Serenity
The Matter Aera promises a smoother and quieter ride thanks to its electric motor, which produces minimal noise and vibrations. This is particularly beneficial for urban commuting.
The Bajaj Pulsar, while refined, produces moderate vibrations at higher RPMs—something that riders on longer journeys might notice.
Environmental Edge: Sustainability Matters
As a zero-emission vehicle, the Matter Aera aligns perfectly with India’s push for clean mobility. The Pulsar, while fuel-efficient, still relies on petrol and contributes to emissions.
For environmentally conscious riders, the Aera offers a guilt-free riding experience.
Price and Market Positioning
The Matter Aera is priced at around ₹1.5 lakh (ex-showroom), putting it in direct competition with the higher-end Pulsar models like the NS200 and RS200.
While the Aera’s upfront cost is slightly higher, it offers:
- Lower running costs
- Eligibility for government subsidies on EVs
The Pulsar remains more accessible, catering to a wider audience with proven reliability and an extensive service network.
Final Verdict: Aera’s Bold Challenge to Pulsar’s Legacy
The Matter Aera 2024 marks a new chapter in Indian motorcycling, offering:
- Electric efficiency
- Cutting-edge technology
- Engaging manual riding experience
Bajaj Pulsar still boast dependability and performance. It can now also absorb long rides, but the Aera is too tempting, especially for those city-dwelling tech lovers.
The rivalry between the Matter Aera and Bajaj Pulsar is not a competition but a sign of how Indian motorcycles have evolved. No matter if you’re all about electric or petrol, this battle really pushes the limits, giving riders more options to choose from.
The Matter Aera may not spell “game over” for the Pulsar just yet, but it’s clear that Indian motorcycling is going electric, and the Aera is at the front of that.
Also Check: Bajaj Pulsar NS 160: A Game-Changer in the Indian Motorcycle Market